Morality and Music

Meanwhile, auditions for the upcoming Open-Mic Night took place in Olivia Music Hall. “It’s always great to see all the different talents,” said prefect Norah O’Brien (’24). “I think it’s going to be a great show.” 

Later on, the group made its way to Gould Commons for delicious gyros, cucumber salad, and couscous. Conversation topics varied, with some students discussing their readings, pondering questions of faith and piety, while others chatted excitedly about the next day’s texts. After dinner, all settled down in Dolben Library for study period.

Following the story of Abraham that attendees read in Genesis, they now studied Søren Kierkegaard’s Fear and Trembling, which explores the sacrifice of Isaac from various ethical and religious standpoints. “I’m not sure what I think about Abraham and Isaac yet,” said Julius F. “It seems like faith and morals are opposed in this story, but they must reconcile somehow.”

Next came the nightly Rosary in the Our Mother of Perpetual Help Chapel, followed by a private concert by Peter Blanchette, a renowned archguitarist, who wowed the programmers with beautiful medieval music. “This is some of the earliest music to be published, dating back to the 1300s,” Mr. Blanchette said. “These were the ‘top hits’ of the Middle Ages!’’ he added.

Attendees were transfixed watching Mr. Blanchette perform so skillfully in Bl. Frassatti Student Center. “We’re very lucky to have Mr. Blanchette performing for us,” said Director of Admissions John Jost. “It’s a real treat to hear him play so up close and personal.” 

As the concert ended, cheers and applause erupted from the programmers. Tired from a long day, the group soon headed off to bed, dreaming of music and morality. Today, they will grapple with Kierkegaard — and you can read about it later this afternoon, here on the Summer Blog!