On Monday, November 23, Soshima Zen Center presented “Under the Bodhi Tree: a Meditative Journey Cloaked in Music”, a dramatic representation of the night of the Buddha's enlightenment, some 2,500 years ago, as presented in Mahayana Buddhist teachings.
Seated attendees faced a projection screen illuminated from the rear. V. Myong-Ahn Sunim provided a brief introduction and context as to the legend of the Buddha's enlightenment. A dramatic narration ensued, punctuated at intervals by quotes from the Buddha. Specially selected musical compositions set the mood as each phase of the story unfolded. Throughout the piece, the projection was illuminated with an ever-changing, kaleidoscopic display of light.
The conclusion of the program was met with applause.
Concept adapted by V. Myong-Ahn Sunim
Music selected by Bob Davey and V. Myong-Ahn Sunim
Creative development by V. Myong-Ahn Sunim
Written by V. Myong-Ahn Sunim, Bob Davey
Voices supplied by: the Mysterions
Recording, Mixing, Editing, Effects: V. Myong-Ahn SunimSound by Round Square Innovations
Performance space design, visuals: V. Myong-Ahn Sunim
Music
TRACK 1: Intro: Hindi music- artist unknown
TRACK 2: First Watch of the Night: Scarlet Woman by Weather Report
TRACK 3: Second Watch of the Night: Forlorn- Joe Zawinul performed by Weather Report
TRACK 4: Third Watch of the Night: Gaspard de la nuit (Guardian of the Jewels)- by Maurice Ravel
TRACK 5: The Daughters of Mara-Pleasure: Imp’s Welcome by Chick Corea
TRACK 6: The Daughters of Mara – Craving: Coming Home- Defiance- by Yungchen Lhamo
TRACK 7: The Daughters of Mara – Discomfort: Ib So Ri (The Oral Sound)-by Kim So Hee
TRACK 8: Mara’s Assault: Returns a King- 300 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)-Tyler Bates
TRACK 9: Closing: Easy Like Sunday Morning by Lionel Richie