Night Song: Compline Service

Night Song is a Sunday evening, 45-minute musical event at First Church in Cambridge that fosters meditation and contemplation, providing a refuge from the stress and frantic pace of daily lives.

Through the stillness of the evening, burning candles, occasional incense and bells, art and dance, and most especially music, Night Song brings serene beauty and quiet peace into human lives.  No words are spoken; everything is perceived through the senses.

The music is a unique fusion of contemplative modal instrumental improvisations by jazz musicians blended with ancient and modern chant and psalm settings, and punctuated by glorious polyphonic choral music from the Renaissance.  To some Night Song is experienced as a spiritual journey, and may be a supplement to their regular spiritual practice.  Others use it as a vehicle to quietly let their concerns and hopes rise as incense into the fragrant evening air.  Many receive a sense of comfort and strength.  And there are those who find that the experience transports and transforms them, allowing an escape for moments of peace and clarity.

Monastic in nature, Night Song is purposefully intended to be an experience that differs dramatically from daily life.  While Christian in content, Night Song is open to all and does not include creeds, sermons, or participatory elements. Simply sit still and let beauty enfold you.  Or use the experience to express your hopes and concerns for others in your life and in our sometimes troubled world.  Then leave in peace.

Admission to Night Song is free; donations are warmly accepted.