“Lord of All” – A contemplative classical guitar piece by Derek Mason
This short musical passage composed, performed and produced by Derek J. Mason, speaks volumes about the spiritual quest of the human spirit for the meaning of life. Derek created this piece in 2002 and released in it 2002 and 2003. He played it on the same classical guitar he used for his solo guitar work on cruise ships shortly thereafter. It has since become more than a contemplative guitar piece.
I first published this video on February 14, 2016, on the eve of the one year anniversary of the passing of my husband Derek Mason.
In this memorial, I honour, Derek, the fact that you loved God first … above all; and that is good; I would have it no other way. With a vision of eternity, we both know, as I knew at your passing, that this vertical form of Love (Agape) actually preserves the love between the two of us as eternal, sacred. I remember you saying, many times, especially in your last 18 months on Terra Firma, “I want to go to heaven” You said it passionately, sometimes almost tearfully. Many who knew you didn’t know that about you… that you grew to love the Lord of All, first and foremost, and that you kept your spiritual antennae directed to the voice of God, throughout much of your struggle. That’s why this piece of your music so deep and searching.
~ Anthea Mason
Inspired by his pilot training, passion for aviation and a love of Sci-fi, Derek created this ambient music piece. In retrospect, I realized that the entire production is quite symbolic of Derek’s spiritual nature and his final journey Home.
Rest in peace, Derek. We miss you, and pray you have flown to the heavens.
Derek Mason’s muses and music honoring a favorite Christmas tradition
In late 2014 at one of the three last Christmas-time gatherings Derek Mason was able to attend, he reflected on “Las Posadas,” a Latin American Christmas Advent custom that had inspired him. Derek recalled how extended families took part in this humble tradition that re-enacted the Nativity drama of the Holy couple looking for a place to give birth to the infant Jesus. I captured this footage and some of the portraits in this video at our friend Ted’s annual pre-Christmas gathering on December 13, 2014. I never thought to start recording this casual conversation until near its end. Although it’s just a snippet, I wanted to share it during this sacred season, as a memorial dedication to my dear late husband and to the beauty of humble family Christmas traditions throughout the world. Las Posadas Advent re-enactments, which started in Spain, are now more common throughout Mexico and Central American countries such as Guatemala and El Salvador where Derek twice traveled.
The music at the end of this short video is “Ode to Our Lady” a 21/2 minute Spanish guitar piece Derek composed, performed and recorded in his home studio, circa 2002-2003. He had dedicated it to the Hispanic people’s love of the Mother of Jesus and the Holy Family
~ Anthea Mason