The Pursuit of Beauty with Matthew Wilkinson

In this fascinating deep dive into Ethiopian Orthodox chant and theology, Deacon Henok offers a rare insider's view of the Tewahedo tradition—an ancient Afro-Asiatic form of Christianity with rich liturgical practices, poetic chant, and distinctive theology. Host Matthew Wilkinson and Deacon Henok explore everything from the structure of the Ethiopian liturgy and the use of sacred instruments like the sistrum and kabaro drum, to the complexities of Ge’ez chant and the creation of one-time-use poetic verses composed and memorized weekly. Henok explains the centuries-old school of poetry and exegesis in Aksum, where students train in sacred language, theology, and chant.The conversation also highlights Akwakwam, the choreographed, instrumentally accompanied vigils that take place before major feast days—alongside an explanation of the ancient chant system developed by Saint Yared, the 6th-century Ethiopian composer and mystic. Henok reflects on the vibrancy and challenge of maintaining this rich tradition in the modern Ethiopian Church, including differing parish practices, missionary efforts abroad, and the realities of post-imperial Ethiopia. Listeners get an inside look at fasting customs, veneration of the Ark of the Covenant, and cultural habits—like widespread circumcision and Sabbath observance—that retain echoes of ancient Semitic life.The conversation also traces Ethiopia’s unique Christology (Tewahedo/Miaphysitism), the preservation of sacred books like Enoch and Jubilees, and the church’s musical taxonomy—from ancient Mazmur to modern lay chant. With reflections on Orthodox liturgical rhythms, Ethiopian fasting, and missionary efforts from Africa to the Caribbean, this interview offers a rare bridge between ancient tradition and modern expression. Whether you're a scholar, musician, or curious Christian, this is an essential introduction to one of the world’s oldest and most mystically rich Christian traditions.

In this rich and wide-ranging interview, scholar and publisher Vlad Morosan (founder of Musica Russica) unpacks the fascinating history of Russian Orthodox chant, from its Byzantine roots to the polyphonic masterpieces of composers like Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff. He traces the evolution of Znamenny chant, Kievan and Obikhod traditions, and explores the liturgical reforms that sparked the Old Believer schism — including its dramatic implications for music, worship, and cultural identity.Morosan also delves into how Soviet suppression of sacred music forced generations of Russian composers to write "into the desk drawer," secretly preserving spiritual traditions through coded composition. Along the way, he explains why some communities rejected polyphony in favor of preserving monophonic chant, and how post-Soviet revival efforts have brought this repertoire back into the light. He also explains how he himself was able to bring some of this music to the US, such as the Kastalsky Requiem. This is a must-watch for anyone interested in Orthodox liturgy, sacred choral music, Chesnokov, Tchaikovsky, Bortniansky, Kastalsky, Znameny chant, Slavic cultural history, and the spiritual power of chant. Whether you're a choir director, theologian, historian, or curious listener, this conversation offers insight into the beauty, survival, and renewal of a living tradition.Vladimir's sites: https://www.musicarussica.com/p/aboutcopublished with: https://orthodoxartsjournal.org/https://newworldbyzantine.com/my sites:💻 Website and blog: https://matthewwilkinson.net/🔒 BECOME A PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/c/MatthewWilkinsonMusic

In this deep and engaging interview, filmmaker Josh David Jordan joins Matthew Wilkinson to explore the inspiration, philosophy, and cinematic influences behind his latest project, El Tonto Por Cristo. From Tarkovsky’s meditative pacing to the spiritual starkness of Robert Bresson, Jordan opens up about his creative process, the challenges of low-budget filmmaking, and the delicate balance between art, audience, and authenticity. The conversation covers everything from editing heartbreaks to the importance of restraint in storytelling, as well as the legacy of great directors like Wim Wenders, Béla Tarr, and the Coen Brothers.

The two also dive into broader artistic questions—what makes great cinema, how to avoid chasing novelty for its own sake, and why true art often finds its audience years later. Jordan reflects on the tension between humility and confidence, the value of patience in a fast-paced digital age, and how his Orthodox Christian faith informs his vision as a filmmaker. Whether you're a cinephile, a student of filmmaking, or simply interested in spiritual cinema and the fool-for-Christ tradition, this conversation offers a rare look into the heart of a director creating boldly outside the Hollywood mold.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Filmmaking and Influences

07:22 The Role of Editing in Film

13:33 The Importance of Patience in Art

19:26 The Evolution of Acting and Performance

25:22 The Impact of Technology on Creativity

31:15 The Legacy of Art and Its Reception

42:02 The Impact of Art on Family and Community

47:45 The Balance of Humility and Confidence

53:13 Influences in Filmmaking: Directors and Philosophies

01:13:04 The Balance of Art and Authenticity

01:18:05 The Impact of Iconic Cinema

01:24:47 The Emotional Resonance of Cinema

01:31:16 Tarkovsky's Legacy and Influence

01:37:30 The Importance of Mystery in Storytelling

01:44:17 The Fine Line of Comedy and Drama

01:52:06 Balancing Creativity and Mental Health

01:57:25 The Impact of Iconic Directors

02:03:24 The Role of Entertainment in Cinema

02:14:33 Intentionality in Filmmaking

02:19:41 Literary Influences and Symbolism

02:25:40 Cultural Reception and Audience Response

02:41:32 Black and White Aesthetic Choices

What makes Carpatho-Russian (Carpatho-Rusyn) Orthodox chant so unique—and so powerfully congregational? In this in-depth conversation, Fr. Nicholas Mihaly explores the distinct features of Carpatho-Rusyn plainchant (Prostopinije), a living tradition rooted in the Carpathian Mountains and shaped by the faith and memory of its people. Unlike composed liturgical music often sung by choirs, Prostopinije is deeply congregational, learned organically by generations of faithful through active participation in worship. Fr. Mihaly explains how its melodic formulas (rather than scales) and relative simplicity make it accessible for laypeople, especially in comparison to the more ornate or exotic-sounding Byzantine or Kievan chant traditions. The result is a spiritually rich and theologically formative experience, where even the simplest villager comes to know the faith by singing it.Fr. Mihaly also traces the historical development of this chant tradition—from its Byzantine roots to its transcription in modern notation by Fr. John Boksaj and cantor Joseph Malinich. He explains technical concepts like tones, the octoechos system, irmoi, troparia, and kondakia, and he highlights how oral tradition and cultural memory sustain the chant's vibrancy. Beyond musicology, this episode speaks to the heart of Orthodox worship: the idea that theology is learned not just through reading, but through communal prayer and song. If you're interested in Orthodox liturgy, Slavic chant traditions, or the intersection of culture and faith, this is an essential listen.my sites: https://matthewwilkinson.net/https://www.patreon.com/c/MatthewWilkinsonMusiclink to more Carpatho-Russian music: https://www.acrod.org/prayercorner/hymnsmusic/plainchant/liturgicalmusic/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Carpatho-Rusyn Chant04:03 Historical Context of Carpatho-Rusyn People04:24 Understanding Chant Systems05:47 Evolution of Carpatho-Rusyn Chant09:44 Influences on Carpatho-Rusyn Chant13:25 Contemporary American Orthodox Music20:24 Exploring Carpatho-Rusyn Chant26:33 The Role of Congregational Singing37:09 Comparative Analysis of Chant Traditions44:58 The Role of Chant in Orthodoxy46:48 Congregational Singing: A Shared Experience48:43 Comparing Chant Traditions: Plain Chant vs. Byzantine52:40 Understanding Chant Terminology53:00 The Structure of Canon and Hymns58:45 Exploring the Octoichos and Its Significance01:03:44 Cultural Context of Carpatho-Rusyn Chant01:09:38 Understanding the Ukrainian Orthodox Landscape01:12:02 The Role of Language in Liturgical Practices01:15:32 The Historical Context of Slavic Liturgical Languages01:23:16 The Significance of Carpatho-Rusyn Chant

In this wide-ranging conversation, JP Marceau discusses his intellectual journey from materialism to a non-reductive naturalist worldview that integrates science, philosophy, and Christian theology. Drawing from his experience studying philosophy alongside thinkers like Jonathan Pageau and John Vervaeke, Marceau critiques the limits of materialist reductionism and explains how modern cognitive science increasingly aligns with a Neoplatonic or hylomorphic understanding of reality. He argues that consciousness, mind, and form exist at various levels of reality and cannot be reduced to mere physical components. His recent book, "Post-Reductionist Christianity", published by The Symbolic World Press, aims to bridge the scientific worldview with classical metaphysics in an accessible way for readers shaped by modern scientific assumptions.The dialogue explores complex metaphysical categories—such as materialism, naturalism, idealism, hylomorphism, and panpsychism—while contrasting contemporary thinkers like David Bentley Hart, Bernardo Kastrup, and John Vervaeke. Marceau raises concerns about labeling classical Christian metaphysics as “panpsychist” due to its current association with materialist attempts to explain consciousness. He emphasizes that classical Christianity sees love—not qualia or mind—as the deepest ontological ground. The interview also touches on the metaphysical implications of Galileo, Kant, and Descartes, and compares Christianity’s incarnational descent with the ascendant tendencies in other religious traditions. This episode offers a thoughtful discussion for viewers interested in Christian metaphysics, philosophy of mind, and the intersection of science and faith.my sites: https://matthewwilkinson.net/https://www.patreon.com/c/MatthewWilkinsonMusicJP Marceau: https://www.thesymbolicworld.com/team/jean-philippe-marceauJP's book "Post-Reductionist Christianity" https://store.thesymbolicworld.com/collections/frontpage/products/post-reductionist-christianity-a-way-out-of-the-meaning-crisis

In this in-depth conversation, Matthew Wilkinson speaks with Alexander Hatcher about the distinctive musical and theological heritage of the Malankara Syriac Orthodox Church. Hatcher shares how liturgical music in this tradition is shaped by rhythmic and melodic diversity, seasonal variation, and cultural influence—particularly the contrasting styles found in India and the Middle East. The discussion highlights how ornamentation, chant forms, and vocal production reflect both regional language patterns and centuries-old sacred expression.The episode also explores the theological richness of the Malankara Church, including its use of dozens of Eucharistic anaphoras, its rigorous fasting and prostration practices, and the poetic beauty of its dialogue hymns, such as the beloved Good Friday exchange between the two thieves. Hatcher and Wilkinson reflect on the legacy of Syriac Christianity in India, ecumenical hope between divided Orthodox traditions, and how deeply rooted liturgical forms continue to unify and inspire across continents. A must-watch for anyone interested in Syriac chant, Oriental Orthodoxy, or sacred music traditions of the East.my sites: https://matthewwilkinson.net/https://www.patreon.com/c/MatthewWilkinsonMusicChapters

In this rich and illuminating conversation, Deacon Rubik Mailian offers a rare glimpse into the profound musical and spiritual heritage of the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church. He explains the unique categories of Armenian chant—from the simple Gospel intonations and Psalm tones to the deeply melismatic Sharakaner (hymns) and treasured solo works like Sirde Sasani. Deacon Rubik shares how these chants are structured, performed antiphonally, and grounded in a sacred tradition that has resisted both translation and modern dilution. He also discusses the fascinating development of Khaz notation—an indigenous system used for centuries to preserve the musical line—and how 20th-century scholars attempted to recover its meaning after it was lost.The conversation also explores the deep connection between Armenia’s turbulent history and the somber, haunting quality of its sacred music. From the invention of the Armenian alphabet for liturgical translation to the cultural preservation efforts of Komitas Vardapet, Deacon Rubik paints a compelling picture of a church whose liturgical music has remained an essential form of worship and resilience. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in ancient Christian chant, Eastern Orthodox liturgy, or how music carries the soul of a persecuted people.my sites: https://matthewwilkinson.net/https://www.patreon.com/c/MatthewWilkinsonMusic

In this insightful interview, German organ improviser and cathedral cantor Julian Beutmiller discusses his extensive training in church music, organ improvisation techniques, and the unique German approach to educating church musicians. Julian explains the rigorous curriculum involved in earning a church music degree in Germany, highlighting the necessity of proficiency in multiple instruments, conducting, music theory, Gregorian chant, and liturgy. He shares valuable insights on mastering organ improvisation, including how aspiring musicians can develop skills through structured practice, imitation of historical styles, and dedicated ear training.

Additionally, Julian explores the cultural differences between church music traditions in Germany, England, France, and the United States, emphasizing Germany’s strength in historical replication, particularly in improvising Baroque forms such as fugues and chorales. He also touches on the unique sound and pedagogical methods of European boys' choirs, sharing his experience directing a large boys’ choir and discussing the importance of maintaining this cultural heritage. This conversation offers practical tips and an inspiring look at Julian Beutmiller’s journey as a leading figure in church music and organ improvisation.

Seraphim is one of the most important iconographers in the Western World today. Greatly Inspired by Ouspensky and Gregory Kroug, he eschews formalism, and seeks to provide an encounter with God through the use of color and line. We discuss a wide variety of topics, including his experience living in a monstery, getting married, living in Georgia, falling off a cliff, painting landscapes, getting started in iconography, and working full-time as an iconographer, currently in Greenville, SC at St. John of the Ladder.

We discuss the beauty of this ancient chant from the Malankaran Church in India, which follows West Syriac rites and is attached to the Patriarch of Antioch of the Syriac Orthodox Church, an Oriental Orthodox Church.