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Larry Karpenko is excited to announce the premiere of his orchestral song, “The River,” a moving musical piece inspired by the tranquil beauty of the Shenandoah River in Virginia’s Massanutten Mountains. This special event will take place at the Loma Linda University Seventh-day Adventist Church in California, featuring a full orchestra, brass, choir, and handbells.
“The River” draws its inspiration from the Shenandoah River, which gently winds through flowered fields, farmland, and wild valley grasses. This scenic river, nestled in the lush green Massanutten Mountains, is a symbol of rest, serenity, and reflection. Larry’s song captures the river’s calming presence, inviting listeners to imagine themselves beside its peaceful banks.
Larry wrote “The River” during his first year of college, inspired by his experiences at a boarding high school where the Shenandoah River ran along the edge of campus. The song became a way for him to express his longing for a safe, healing space and a deeper connection with a place to find strength and stability.
The music begins with quiet passages of harp and piano, setting a gentle mood that mirrors the river’s flow. As the song unfolds, it explores one of humanity’s deepest desires: to find a safe space for security and peace. The chorus introduces a spiritual dimension with the line, “the river that runs through my heart,” suggesting that the river is not just a physical place, but also a metaphor for emotional and spiritual connection.
The second verse of the song uses the river as a metaphor for God’s love, flowing strong and steady through life’s challenges. The third verse encourages listeners to seek out their places of peace and reflection, wherever they may be.
As “The River” builds to its climax, a choir joins in, adding emotional depth and creating a moment where listeners can imagine angels singing in heaven. Suddenly, the music shifts into the familiar hymn “Shall We Gather at the River,” with the chorus ringing out powerfully, supported by brass and orchestral percussion. This moment is further highlighted by the sound of handbells, as if church bell towers are ringing in celebration, symbolising a triumphant, heaven-like reunion.
The song concludes with the gentle sound of the harp, returning the listener to the serene river view. Larry’s final lyrics, “the river that flows by the throne of God,” bring the narrative to a peaceful and uplifting close.
“The River” is a beautiful example of how traditional Christian music can be combined with new, heartfelt lyrics and orchestration. Larry skillfully weaves together his prayerful ballad with the classic hymn, connecting the past and present and evoking emotion in listeners of all ages.
This arrangement marks an important milestone for Larry, as it is his first published orchestral work. The recording took place at Kreation Records in Loma Linda, California, a creative hub for writing, collaboration, and production.
Larry extends special thanks to Charles Reid, opera singer and Associate Professor of Music, Voice Area at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, for his encouragement and support during the development of “The River.” He also thanks Adriana Perera, Pastor of Worship & Musical Arts at Loma Linda University Church, for her work in transcribing the score.
A highlight of the production was working with choir members from Larry’s local church, whose voices brought a special emotional touch to the piece. Larry also orchestrated parts for handbells, allowing his children-who are handbell ringers-to participate in live performances. The inclusion of a drum set adds a unique fusion of modern and traditional sounds.
“The River” reflects simplicity, honesty, and heart. Its compelling lyrics and melodies, combined with orchestral instruments, create a pleasant and meaningful experience for listeners. The central metaphor of the river “that runs through my heart” encourages everyone to seek their places of peace, security, and spiritual connection.
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