The bedtime singing of monks and nuns, Compline (pronounced “KOMP-lin”) consists of Gregorian Chant and choral music lasting approximately twenty minutes. Its repertoire includes masterworks by Tallis, Victoria, Byrd and Palestrina, together with compositions of later ages. While the music sung is from the Christian tradition, there is no church affiliation, nor are clergy present. There is no admission cost nor offering collected.

Compline is sung in a darkened space, lit only by candles. The organ is used only sparingly and there is an overall quietness and peace which invites contemplation. Because the music is ‘otherworldly’ and the physical setting arranged to facilitate meditation, Compline offers space for mindfulness and contemplation— to be ‘alone together.’

Alumni Hall, at the crossroads of our campus, is architecturally distinguished and boasts a fine organ. It is an ideal Bloomington location for choral Compline.

Listen to an interview conversation with Aaron Cain of WIFU and Jeffrey Smith

https://indianapublicmedia.org/arts/choral-compline-by-candlelight.php

Compline lasts between 15 and 20 minutes.

We offer Compline in Alumni Hall with the following goals in mind:

-Bring Jacobs School of Music student performers to central campus.

-Create a gathering space which fosters meditation and mindfulness, through choral music.

-Enable a point of regular social intersection on Sunday evenings.

-Partner with student groups to pair events before or after Compline.

-Offer Jacobs School of Music performers a consistent venue to develop their ensemble skills to a high-level.

-Educate musicians and music-lovers in the vast richness of polyphonic choral singing.

Compline is facilitated through the Jacobs School of Music Organ Department.

For further information contact Prof. Jeffrey Smith at js72@iu.edu.