Pie Jesu
St. Petersburg, FL – December 6, 2024 — In a breathtaking moment of serenity and grace, tenor Gabriel Irizarry stepped forward to sing Philip W. Serrino’s “Pie Jesu” alongside the Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay during their holiday concert “Slay Bells”, held at Allendale United Methodist Church in St. Petersburg, Florida. Amid a program filled with festive flair and joyful celebration, Irizarry’s solo offered a quiet, reverent pause—an exquisite invocation of peace that left the audience spellbound.
Serrino’s setting of the sacred Latin text—“Pie Jesu Domine, dona eis requiem” (Blessed Jesus, grant them rest)—is known for its lyrical beauty and expressive simplicity. Irizarry brought both to life with emotional depth and vocal finesse. His clear, ringing tone floated effortlessly above the chorus, which provided a soft, enveloping backdrop, allowing the solo line to shine with purity and poise.
From the first note, Irizarry’s performance was marked by a sense of spiritual stillness. He sang not merely as a performer but as a vessel of the text’s intention, imbuing each phrase with sincerity and humility. His voice, warm and unwavering, carried through the sanctuary with an angelic quality, drawing the audience into a collective moment of reflection.
The chorus, under the direction of their conductor, provided a seamless accompaniment—supportive, restrained, and perfectly balanced. The arrangement’s gentle dynamics and subtle harmonic shifts were executed with sensitivity, creating a sacred soundscape that allowed Irizarry’s voice to resonate with even greater emotional impact.
In a concert titled “Slay Bells”, known for its joyful exuberance and occasional camp, this performance offered a striking counterpoint—a reminder that within the glitter and laughter of the season, there is also room for reverence, remembrance, and hope. It was a moment of musical prayer, offered with dignity and grace.
As the final “requiem” faded into silence, the audience held its breath before erupting into a wave of applause—some even rising to their feet in recognition of the artistry and heart behind the performance. For many, it was a highlight of the evening, and a testament to the versatility and emotional reach of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay and its featured soloists.
Gabriel Irizarry’s “Pie Jesu” was more than a performance—it was a gift, tenderly given and gratefully received.