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. HYMNS OF YEARNING: AN ALBUM TO SING WITH Timothy Mount conducts the New York-based Vedantic Arts Ensemble, 16 world-class singers, accompanied by flute, cello and guitar. These inspirational hymns, designed for congregational singing with the melodies pitched so that average voices can sing them. Ideal for spiritual study groups or congregations without a music director. Also suitable for meditative home listening. Lyrics from the Bible, the Bhagavad Gita, the Gospel of Ramakrishna and other poet-philosophers.