Orthodox worship in the English language requires musical settings of hymns that “sing” and “pray” in English. For over 50 years, Father Sergei Glagolev has been composing liturgical music in English, and teaching and inspiring others to do the likewise. It is fitting, therefore, that our first program in a series devoted to Orthodox composers in America be devoted to his pioneering works.
Father Sergei Glagolev has been an Orthodox priest for over 55 years, and will be celebrating his eightieth birthday in August of this year. He has served parishes in Lorain, Ohio, Encino/Tarzana and San Francisco, California, and East Meadow, New York, and has taught on the faculties of St. Vladimir’s and St. Tikhon’s Seminaries; in addition, he has given dozens of liturgical music workshops around the US and Canada. In 2002, to mark the 50th Anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood, a volume of his Selected Orthodox Sacred Choral Works (Volume 1) was published by PSALM Music Press. Shortly thereafter, the greater portion of these works were recorded by Cappella Romana, of Portland, Oregon, guest-conducted by Vladimir Morosan. It is from this CD, entitled “Lay Aside All Earthly Cares,” (CD I-63, available from www.musicarussica.com) that the musical selections for this program were taken.
Much can more can be said about the life and works of Fr. Sergei Glagolev. For those who are interested, my introductory essay to the volume of his works can be downloaded in PDF format here.
