Music

What is wonderful about music is that it helps man to concentrate or meditate independent of thought; and therefore music seems to be the bridge over the gulf between
form and the formless.
--Hazrat Inayat Khan

There is always much music in the air at Lama Foundation. Prayers are sung to bless the food at each meal; travelers are sung on their way; each Friday’s Shabbat service features some great singing and dancing; and, many people use music as part of their personal spiritual practice. In groups of a few to the entire community, no matter the tradition, each voice adds to the divine orchestra.

There is a fine line where chanting becomes music. The Dances of Universal Peace, for example, draw from sacred phrases the world over, offering beautiful sacred music that is easy to learn, and inspirational to use as a groups focus. Thus, so many prayers can be sung, and this part of everyday Lama. It has been said that singing a prayer (instead of simply saying it) vibrates the body in such a way that the payer is thought to go directly to one’s soul. In a group setting, the effect can be quite powerful.

The main Dome’s “zome roof” shape enhances the joy of music. There is a music room of community instruments, including a piano, and people are encouraged to bring personal instruments. There are drumming circles and informal “jams” that pop up around the land. Also, there are regular trips to the Neem Karoli Baba Ashram in Taos for traditional Hindu chanting and festivals.

Practices that use music as a central element at Lama are: Zikr (Sufi Divine Remembrance Ceremony), Kirtan (Hindu Devotional Chanting), Dances of Universal Peace, African Drumming, 5-Rhythms Dancing, and more. One’s musical ability, or perceived lack thereof, is not a requirement--the only thing one needs to create music at Lama is a willing heart.