A Circle is Cast- CD Notes

 Communal singing forms the cornerstone of Libana’s existence. On stage Libana performs music and dance that highlight women’s traditions and heritage from a diversity of cultures: Celtic, African, Jewish, Eastern European, Middle Eastern and Latin American. In performance we program these diverse traditions thematically to convey—through song, instrumental music and dance—the universality of women’s experience from ancient times through the present. We relish the musical specifics of each culture and work diligently as an ensemble to authentically portray regional timbre and tonality, close, dissonant harmonies, nuances of instrumentation and syncopated rhythms. Through the music we gain insight into each culture; the glimpse it offers into women’s lives adds another valuable piece to women’s yet untold global history.

Audience members often remark that the sense of oneness and genuine community that Libana conveys in concert has as powerful an impact as the clarity and brilliance of the music. Between performances Libana continues as a community—sharing and communicating as a close circle of friends. For us, making music together and the emanating sense of spirit are intrinsically linked.

Informally among ourselves Libana often sings a type of music very different from the ethnic music we perform. To open or close a rehearsal or meeting, to generate a vision or soothe jagged emotions we sing the kind of songs contained in this recording. Great power lies in the cyclical nature of a round, the intensity of collective chant or the clarity of a beautiful yet simple song.

We have gathered this music over many years. Most of the songs have come to us through the “folk process”—learned at camp, conferences, workshops or from friends. In the same manner Libana teaches them—in concert, at workshops or at our annual open sings.

Our primary goal in creating this recording and its companion songbook is to share some of our favorite music with a wider circle of people. We hope you will sing these songs and teach them to children, friends and family. We invite you to share with us any rounds, chants or songs you know or that you learn in the process of sharing this music.

In compiling this collection we have attempted to trace specific authorship or cultural origin. The nature of the folk process, however, often renders a song’s origin elusive. We encourage anyone who has information on a song’s roots to write to us.

In the spirit of community and celebration we dedicate A Circle Is Cast to the singer that we believe lives in each of us.

 Marytha Paffrath

October, 1986

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