Born in Indianapolis in 1936, John Schlenck graduated from the Eastman School of Music in 1957. He served for many years on the musical staff of the Martha Graham and Alvin Ailey Dance Schools. As music director of the Vedanta Society of New York since 1961, Schlenck has composed many songs and a number a larger choral works with Vedantic and other spiritual texts from the world’s great traditions. While grounded in the Western classical tradition, Schlenck’s compositions sometimes incorporate elements of Indian music. His instrumental works include three symphonies, a clarinet concerto, and numerous chamber and solo compositions. HYMN TO HOLY MOTHER: Choral Suite with Flute, Harp, Organ, Tambura and Finger Cymbals with INVOCATIONS: HYMNS FROM THE UPANISHADS Vedantic Arts Ensemble conducted by Timothy Mount with Linda Chesis, flute and Susan Jolles, harp A multi-faceted hymn which celebrates the gentleness, compassion and power of Divine Motherhood, and venerates the life of Sarada Devi, the 19th century Indian saint. Also included: settings of five Peace Chants from the Upanishads, the ancient Sanskrit scriptures (from 8th century BCE) which form the core spiritual thought of Vedantic Hinduism. Sung a cappella.