Chor values

Went to see Musica Intima in concert a few weeks ago. This twelve voice a cappella vocal ensemble sings, for the most part, non-standard repertoire, and does so with impressive technical flawlessness. Unfortunately, it ends there. The performance was somehow flat (not musically) - short a dimension, like looking at a perfectly realistic mural where you expected a window. I couldn't put my finger on why until one of the members made some remarks about the program, including a statement on the choice of repertoire which amounted, not overtly in its words, but in its tone of voice and body language, to a sneering dismissal of Christianity and the choral music informed by the Christian faith. I saw no need for such a statement - if they want to sing unusual material then they can knock themselves out and nobody will bat an eye. The fact that it was made at all indicates an anti-Christian bias that goes far beyond the mere desire to explore different musical paths. No wonder they're the darling of the CBC. And that explains the missing spiritual dimension in their performance - they themselves have banished it. Interestingly enough, some spiritual depth began to show up in the second half, which did include some faith-based repertoire. I'm sure they didn't intend it, but there it was. Beware, humanist musicians. If you participate in music that was created for the glory of God, He will be glorified in spite of you. And if you refuse, the very stones will cry out. Rock music.