Epiphany: classically defined as “an appearance or manifestation, especially of a divine being.” Or in secular terms “an usually sudden manifestation or perception of the essential nature or meaning of something; an intuitive grasp of reality through something (as an event) usually simple and striking; an illuminating discovery, realization, or disclosure.” Or in simpler terms – one stumbles on to something, the light bulb goes on, and an ordinary event leads to an extraordinary “aha!”
Sounds like jazz to me. A jazz musician opens himself/herself to the music and discovers (hidden within the interplay of melody, harmony and rhythm) the spark of an idea. It’s a discovery that begs exploration, and the musician pursues the spark, seeking the meaning and flow of the inner music as it cascades through his/her soul . . . and then s/he is compelled to improvise a new creation, sharing it with the other musicians and listeners (worshippers?).
In the Church, Epiphany is that wondrous, illuminating time: post-Christmas and pre-Lent . . . the time celebrated as the encounter of the Magi with the Christ child . . . foreign dignitaries, following a celestial sign that leads to a big surprise. What better time to plumb the spiritual depths than through jazz?
With the beginning of a new year comes the opportunity to travel new paths seeking epiphanies that open up possibilities for spiritual renewal. Tim and I wish you the wild blessings of “jazz epiphanies” as you seek out inspired moments in the midst of familiar melodies and discover the improvisatory wellspring of the Spirit in your quest.