The Teresian Carmelite Association in Italy launched the initiative with the goal of "generating the most possible interest, above all in countries in which the writings of the Carmelite mystics are part of their literary heritage," Luca Garbini, the artistic director of the competition, told ZENIT.
Among the mystical phrases listed are "Living Flame of Love" by St. John of the Cross, "Let Nothing Disturb You" by St. Teresa of Avila, "Story of a Soul" by St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus, and "Who Are You, Sweet Light?" by St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein).
Garbini explained the criteria for selecting the pieces: "The choice was made by considering both the musicality of the texts and their particularly 'strong' content, in order to inspire the composers to musical creations with a strong emotional impact.
"We want to recover beauty in a renewed repertoire of sacred music."
ZE07090503 - 2007-09-05