Kelso’s Songs Invoke Sense Of Sacredness

Mark Kelso’s fans use his music as an aural backdrop during the most amazing moments.

A priest listens to Kelso’s “Cathedral” CD, which was recorded at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, while he prays.

After his “For God Alone” CD came out, Kelso heard from people who played it at death beds and others who played it at births.

That’s just the sort of infusion Kelso’s production company, Muddy Angel Music & Arts, has in mind.

“We’re trying to bring the sense of sacredness into daily life rather than have it sequestered into a church somewhere,” Kelso said from his home in Richmond, Mass.

Kelso, a pianist and composer, will perform his style of uplifting, non-dogmatic sacred music in a concert called “A Thanksgiving Celebration” at 7 p.m. Wednesday at The Met in downtown Spokane. It will be a benefit for the Interfaith Hospitality Network of Spokane, which has organized to provide shelter in local churches for homeless families.

Recently Kelso’s family received notice that their landlord was selling their house. He knew they’d find a nice home, but for an instant, he had a sense of the insecurity the homeless feel.

“I’m pretty aware that there for the grace of God go I,” Kelso said.

The concert will feature Kelso’s music, which includes both original compositions and hymns from religious traditions around the world.

“People can expect to be moved, they can expect to have fun,” Kelso said. “I’d say make this your family event the night before Thanksgiving.”

, DataTimes MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: Concert Mark Kelso will perform at 7 p.m. Wednesday at The Met. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children and seniors, available at the door or call 747-1029 or 838-8167.