A Dharma Journey Through Music – Plum Village Tour
In 2023, Plum Village monastics embarked on their inaugural North American music tour titled “The Way Out Is In: A Musical Meditation.”
The tour, which began on April 21 in Baltimore and concluded on May 1 in Toronto, offered a unique blend of contemplative music, poetry, and teachings.
The editorial team interviewed Br. Phap Huu on January 2, 2024, to reflect on the tour’s experiences and insights.
Initially, the plan was to incorporate Thay’s poetry about a river’s journey, similar to past retreats.
However, Br. Phap Huu and Sr. True Dedication, the tour’s MCs, realized that the deep metaphors might not resonate with the broader audience.
Thus, they introduced “bite-sized Dharma talks” to explain mindfulness and Thay’s legacy, effectively bridging the gap between profound poetry and the audience’s understanding.
The tour featured monastics who were also professional musicians, creating a diverse ensemble that included cello, violin, rap, and drums.
This blend of contemporary and traditional elements made spirituality accessible and engaging, especially for younger audiences.
The performances highlighted mindfulness, suffering, and Thay’s teachings, providing attendees with a sense of peace and grounding.
The tour’s success led to the creation of an album, “A Cloud Never Dies,” set for release in summer 2024, produced by artist Jack Peñate.
This album aims to offer a journey of reflection, hope, and inspiration, continuing Thay’s legacy through music.
