Transcultural Entanglements and the Impact of Religion (I) (Presentation Slides)

Iconic symbols of religion which have impacted cultures, embracing music, literature and trans relations, include the Vatican, the Notre Dame Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Koelnish Dome, York minster and Canterbury Cathedral. The close connections between the Church and the Government are embodied and exemplified in the tripartite relationship which exists between the law making process and the monarch in the United Kingdom. Before a Bill is approved and confirmed as legislation by the House of Commons and House of Lords, it must be granted Royal Assent. The “Opening of Parliament” is a ceremonial process which is usually instigated by the Queen, who is Head of the Church of England and “ the Defender of the Faith.” However, religion transcends beyond politics in respect of the Crown as reflected in European relations and the ancestry which have also constituted part of the royal dynasty. One of the most famous composers, Georg Frederic Handel, well known for his choral and church music, particularly Handel’s Messiah, is also associated with Westminster Abbey. The impact of church music and religion, in the lives and the works of many composers (Mendelssohn and many others) is also reflected through such famous classics such as “Lift Thine Eyes” (Psalms 121), “ How Beautiful Are the Feet of Those Who Preach the Gospel of Peace”, “ Blessed Are the Pure in Heart”. The impact of religion on art and architectural designs is also reflected through the architecture of well known and loved cathedrals – notably in Paris and Italy. Shakespearean plays and works are often associated and related to places such as Verona (The Two Gentlemen of Verona), (Romeo and Juliet), Venice (Merchant of Venice), and the impact of Roman architecture on many landmarks and cathedrals in Britain (Salisbury, Bath etc), Paris and Europe (Trier, Germany) is reflective of many intercultural and historical links. Whilst this paper explores the impact of religion on the lives of many composers whose inspirational music continues to play an enduring impact and role in the lives of many, it also illustrates the incredible and mysterious way in which religion, through music connects across cultures. It is also widely acknowledged that many classical music lovers are not particularly religious - nor even practise religions which are associated with Christianity. However the common differences shared by contemporary classical pianists, music lovers, and even various hybrids and forms of classical music – which incorporate techno, jazz and various other elements resonates with particularly the younger generations. Such is also reflective of the growing influence of Information Technology on music, mediums through which it is transmitted and the ease of access. Amidst such “evolutionary changes” and particularly those which consume many aspects of time related activities, the need to adapt to such changes whilst emphasizing the enduring and central role, messages of religion and faith, constitutes one of the central themes that this paper aims to address. More importantly, the need to retain the original message and content of faith, hope and love – even in a more dynamic and rather to a larger extent, shallower world. Whilst concerns persist in relation to balance between platforms which involve the use of complex forms of Information technology, as well as social media platforms, along with the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence, the spiritual aspects which religion conveys as an “organizing and stabilizing agent” whose presence has endured over the centuries is a much needed input in today’s dynamic and largely chaotic environment. How does one make sense of chaos and disorder in a continuously dynamic environment? Even one which has been defined by global and regional wars, religious conflicts and Information Technology? Through a culture which not only practises the importance of hope, faith and love, but also illustrates that love, the great path to peace and peaceful relations, transcends over all past and current differences (1st Corinthians 13). "Auch wenn alles einmal aufhort – Glaube, Hoffnung und Liebe nicht • Diese drei werden immer bleiben • Doch am hochsten steht die Liebe" (1 Corinthians 13:13)"