Text by Jay St. Flono

“Precatio,” an evocative art song sung in Latin, guides the listener through a profound spiritual journey within a sacred temple space. Here, the protagonist seeks to affirm her identity as a beautiful daughter of African female rulers of the past. The song’s tranquil opening evolves into a powerful, rhythmic dance at its core, reflecting a jubilant celebration of heritage and strength. As the rhythmic intensity subsides, the piece concludes with a demanding imploration for the “Divine Mothers of Water” to enter the temple, invoking a sense of reverence and unity with ancestral spirits. This composition weaves together elements of spirituality, history, and rhythmic vitality.

—Dave Ragland