I'm so glad I happened on this thread. This jives with a lot of the things that have been said in the Music Therapy threads. And it also adds another dimension. Roger, I had the same experience with 'Christmas in the Trenches'. Heard it for the first time at the Old Bull and Bush this January and tears were just streaming down my face.

In the Music Therapy thread we talked a bit about sound healing. In his book 'Healing Sounds' Jonathan Goldman speaks about the power of sound to heal by projecting vibrations into different parts of the body and auric field. But without the power of intent the effects are minimal. It's the same energy that works in prayer. Being fully present in the moment and then projecting the intent and understanding of the sound/music. When I say 'understanding' I'm refering to an understanding that transcends the mind. In shamanism we call it the 'body-mind', the center of which is located an inch or so below the naval. It's the understanding of experience and compassion.

From a theoretical perspective we are elevated to a faster vibration of energy, a state closer to the bliss of the divine, 'quickened' so to speak. From personal experience I would second this theory.

I hope we can keep this thread going I would love to hear more about others' experiences with this.

Uilleand