Testimonials about Ananda Music and The Ananda Singers
“The Ananda Singers have a contagious warmth, spontaneity, and spirit that will reach into the hearts of everyone who hears them.”
—Joseph Liebling, Choir Director, Oakland Symphony
“...ultra-professional. Their blending, integration, presentation, and conducting all are superb.”
—Salvatore D’Aura, retired choirmaster of the Vatican
“Impossible to describe how moved I was. The music is tremendously compelling.”
—Reverend Judy Sherman, Unity of Seattle, Seattle, WA
“People just don’t write music like this anymore. There is a special place in heaven where musicians like Handel go, and they are saving a place there now for the one who wrote this music.”
—Avis Hall, professional violinist for 30 years
“The composer is a great artist. This music should be heard in every church throughout Italy.”
—Don Giordano Guistorini, church organist for 40 years
The Cathedral of Siena, Italy
“I have had the pleasure of listening to the Ananda Singers on many occasions. They are not only excellent musicians and wonderful people—there is a very high spiritual quality to their music and in their presentation. Their songs appeal to any religion, and certainly to anyone on a spiritual journey, as well as the young of heart. I would heartily recommend the Ananda Singers to any group for a delightful, refreshing, and inspiring program.”
—Reverend Lorri Lee, Religious Science Creative Living Center
Orangevale, CA
“Our church has never been so full for a concert [over 300 people attended]. What touched me was the sweetness of the sound, the stillness in delivery, and a calmness communicated so completely to the audience.”
—Don Eraldo, Parish of SS. Giacomo and Cristoforo, Robegano, Italy
“They bowled me over! I don’t even remember what songs they performed. I only remember the tremendous spiritual energy they channeled.”
—Bill and Theresa Week, Walnut Creek, CA
“Sublimely sweet melodies, enchanting harmonies. Music that speaks directly to your soul.”
—Marco Ciannella, Choral Director and musician, Naples, Italy
“The Ananda Singers’ vitality and enthusiasm is contagious. They are a joy to listen to, and to watch.”
—Ken Briden, First Presbyterian Church of Milpitas, Milpitas, CA
“Exquisite songs contain messages that offers us an opportunity to reflect in serenity. The lyrics’ simplicity and the sweet melodies of each song are captivating and enthralling.”
—Giovanni Agoglia, School Director, Lucca, Italy
“Music of great and evocative power.”
—Francesco Gandolfi, President of Unione Pro Loco Emilia Romagna, Piacenza, Italy
“Thank you for coming and sharing your music from the heart. I was personally moved by the depth and quality of your music, and the delightful presentation. Your sharing was a real blessing for our church. The communion we felt with you and Spirit was wonderful.”
—Reverend John Wingfield, Unity Church of Olympia, Olympia, WA
“The ministry of song that God has given to the Ananda Singers offers the peace of God to all who hear and enjoy their beautiful and sincere presentation.”
—Mark Thallander, Assistant Director of Music, Crystal Cathedral
Garden Grove, CA
“The singers radiated such peace, beauty, and love that for two days after seeing them, every time that I thought of them, I found myself crying.”
—Charlotte Fisher, Hayward, CA
“The music is written and performed with a musical artistry and with a heart that exalts the name of God.”
—Laurie McCoy, Bible Fellowship Church, Ventura, CA
“I have wanted to express my personal thanks to you all for the beautiful music—a most meaningful experience for everyone who came. You are doing a great work for God.”
—Reverend William Hoffhines, Sr., Sheridan United Methodist Church, Sheridan, OR
“The Ananda Singers are delightful people, with an obvious joy for living and for singing. The music I have heard them sing is always in good taste, well-prepared, and sung with enthusiasm and skill. They share the joy of living close to God and to each other, I highly recommend them as a group who will give you plenty to think about, and plenty to sing about.”
—Reverend Robert Harvey, Morningside United Methodist Church, Salem, OR
“Thank you for the precious gift of this music.”
—Mechtild Behmer, Ottowa, Canada
“Your ministry touched our children at every level—something that is difficult to do with such a wide variety of ages. Quite often when a group visits the school, either the younger children are reached and the older ones are not, or vice versa. However, you are to be congratulated for successfully ministering to everyone. That includes teachers, too!”
—Diane Kavanaugh, Art Teacher, Crystal Cathedral Academy, Garden Grove, CA
“When I first heard the Ananda Singers introduced, I thought ‘Ho-hum...is there anything new under the sun?’ But then they began to sing, and I perked up my ears. Their sound, blend, and precision was flawless. Their musical style was truly unique. I listened on. Their personalities and stage-presence were vibrant. As they finished their performance, I found myself no longer focusing on the Ananda Singers’ technique, or their charming personalities. I was focusing on the One they represent. I heartily recommend the Ananda Singers.
—Reverend Dick Bishop, Christian Center Assembly of God, Kalispell, Montana
“The Ananda Singers are an entertaining, uplifting, and spirit-filled musical group. Their music is devotional and beautifully performed.”
—Mary Manin Boggs, Director, Living Enrichment Center, Beaverton, OR
“Once you have had the opportunity to hear them, you will know why they are called the ‘Ananda Joy Singers.’ Not only is their music beautiful, soul-filled, and delightful, but each member off the group is so loving, outgoing, and a ‘joy’ to be around. So many favorable comments were made to us by our congregation and friends after their last performance for us. Their music is a blessing to all who have the privilege of hearing them.”
—Reverend Margaret Ims, Christ Unity Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA
“Your voices weave lyrics and music to produce a feeling of great joy and peace. Thank you for sharing your inner light. You touch all who hear you.”
—Reverend Patricia Ballard, Religious Science Community Church
Sacramento, CA
Prizes
The Presidential Cup, Second Prize
1st Annual Modial Mariano at Colle di Fuori, Rome, September 16, 1990
Adelaide Ristori Award, September 25, 1990
National Festival of World Peace, First Prize
Chieti, Italy, June 3, 1991
Tours:
September 2002-March 2004 throughout Italy
