How often do we leave a gathering with a tune in our head although often we do not have much time to focus on the music. Music has been part of the Focolare experience from the earliest of times; adapting traditional songs from the Dolomites to the works of Gen Rosso and Gen Verde, now celebrating the wealth of local talent!

This weekend was an explosion of joy! Around 30 people from different parts of the UK came together for the weekend simply to sing! Fortunately, some of the groups’ talents were musical although some of us were there just because we appreciate that many people have been touched by the ideal of unity expressed through music

The weekend was marked by a certain simplicity. The songs were our meditations and reflections. As we attempted singing in parts we had the opportunity to love our neighbour; sometimes singing louder to help, sometimes quieter to give others space. There was a great sense of achievement when we completed a song and “performed” it in the servery where the acoustics seemed to be better.

A one-off gathering? I hope not. A roadshow around the UK? Possibly. Definitely the opportunity to rediscover some old favourites but also to give life to some new creations. Look out for “Let Love Be Your Guide” by Bethany, hopefully we will all be singing all the parts at this years’ Mariapolis. I am sure that we can also bring back some of our enthusiasm to our local communities.

For more information on music of the Focolare check out

Gen Verde: https://www.genverde.it/en/

Gen Rosso: https://www.genrosso.com/

Paul Gateshill: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoyj3mYQUgQnqN_YiC2wOnw

Vincent Lockhart: www.lockhart.it   or https://www.youtube.com/@vincentlockhart1/featured

Factor One https://www.facebook.com/FactorOne.Band/

Beyhany Tutt: https://soundcloud.com/beth-tutt

Lorraine Reade: https://www.newcity.co.uk/books/treasures/