Brother John Paul Russo

Spring and summer of last year saw the premieres of two compositions by Brother John Paul Russo of the Capuchin Franciscan Friars, Province of the Stigmata. His Miss pro nova aurora ("Mass for a New Dawn") was performed in April 2008 by Florida Pro Musica in Tampa. And his Holy Rosary was to be performed several times at World Youth Day in Sydney the following July. Scored for soloists, chorus, and string orchestra, Russo described the latter as a "multi-media, interactive work meant to enhance the prayer of the rosary."

"I see music as a form of spiritual nourishment," he said. "If it connects people to God, then I'm willing to try anything. Doors are opening, and I'm going through."

More on Brother John, including a biography and program notes and a Tampa Tribune story about the Mass for a New Dawn as well as links to a musical clip.