Denise Pelley talks about Missa Gaia

Denise Pelley
London jazz singer Denise Pelley has been performing Missa Gaia / Earth Mass with the Karen Schuessler Singers since our first presentation of the work in 1994. Denise brings a special energy to each concert, and her soulful solos are audience favorites. We recently asked her for some Missa Gaia memories.

Do you remember the first time you heard Missa Gaia?
Missa Gaia was my introduction to Karen Schuessler in the mid 90s. She had contacted me about performing with the choir. Up until that point in time I hadn’t done a lot of performing with choirs, so I welcomed this exciting opportunity. As I listened to [Paul Winter's] recording I was quite intrigued by this piece which tells a story of how precious our Earth is.

Do you have any favorite songs from Missa Gaia?
It’s hard to choose a favorite because I really do love all of the songs, but two of my favorites are Ubi Caritas and Mystery. I love listening to the choir on Ubi Caritas, how it starts so gentle and free with the men’s voices, the haunting piano going from minor to major. It reminds of the feeling of darkness and despair turning into hope and celebration. All the modulations in the song remind me of different chapters of life’s journey. When the song is finishing, with the choir singing Hallelujah, I liken it to the singers saying thank you for the journey thus far.

Mystery is a very moving piece for me, especially after the loss of my oldest son Jason in January 2000. Singing has always been very therapeutic for me, and it was instrumental (and continues to be) in helping me to deal with his death.

Dearest Jason:
“But when I listen deep inside, I feel you best of all
Like a moon that’s glowing white, and I listen to your call
And I know that you will guide me, I feel you like the tide
Rushing through the ocean of my heart that’s open wide”
(text from the song Mystery, Missa Gaia / Earth Mass)

Do you remember any specific audience reactions to the MG concerts you’ve done with KSS?
We have performed Missa Gaia many times since the first time in 1994, and I find that every audience is mesmerized by the message this whole piece tells.

What keeps bringing you back to do this work again and again?
My trips to Sudan, my visit to a Trinidadian orphanage and a maximum security prison, the loss of loved ones, the birth of new little ones – all of these chapters influence my presentation of music. It is my chance to share a story. And I have the wonderful opportunity to incorporate these feelings into Missa Gaia.

I will never tire of Missa Gaia. The music is beautiful, moving and enjoyable to do. The story will be relevant forever.