Concert to bring ‘ancient beauty of the faith’ to Hobart

By Catherine Sheehan

Musician Stephen Kirk refers to music as “God’s little ninja” because of its ability to touch hearts by stealth, manoeuvring past the conscious mind.

“It has a way of being able to sneak past all the barriers in our minds and thought processes, and touch our spirit directly,” Stephen said.

“To me the role of the artist is to mine the depths of the human experience and reflect in tangible creations the things discovered in those depths.

“For the Christian artist, this is inextricably linked with mining (as best we can) and reflecting in our creations the inexhaustible depths of God.”

The Canberra-based singer-songwriter who has produced six albums to date will be giving his first ever full-length public concert on 8 November in Hobart. The intimate evening of music titled ‘Stephen Kirk Unplugged’ will be held at the historic Barn at Rosny Farm and will feature music from his entire collection including his latest album, ‘New Day’, released earlier this year.

He will also be running a free workshop at the Cathedral Centre in Hobart on 9 November titled ‘Music in the Eucharist’ for those who want to learn about the profound relationship between music and the Mass.

“I hope and pray that together we encounter Jesus and let him do whatever he wants in us through that encounter.

“Since becoming a Christian I’ve always felt that a large part of my mission was to be a witness to the presence of God with us, by leading people into prayer through music.”

Even though he was raised a Catholic, Stephen drifted away from the faith during his youth, not returning until his early twenties.

While singing with a 1,100 member Gospel choir in San Diego in the US he had a powerful experience of God’s presence that reignited his interest in Christianity.

During his long and winding journey back to the Catholic faith he spent some time as a member of an African American Gospel church and almost became a Carmelite monk before meeting and marrying his wife, Karen. They now have six children.

In true ninja style, Stephen dodges the question of how to categorise his musical style.

“My musical background is very varied, from Irish, to alternative, to Black Gospel and Funk, to folk, to singer-songwriter.

“My music has been compared to Matt Maher, James Taylor, and John Michael Talbot amongst others.  Musically though I think James Taylor is probably the closest fit. 

“I think a key distinguishing feature of my music is that it is contemporary in style but deeply rooted in the ancient beauty of the faith, with a strong sense of silence and sacredness.”

Having spent most of his career as a worship leader, and not wanting to draw attention to himself, Stephen admits he was initially reluctant to give his first full-length headline concert when it was suggested to him. However, he has warmed to the idea.

“In praying about it I have come to feel excited about honouring God and hopefully drawing others into his presence through praying the music he has given me over the years. 

“I’m also very excited to have Sean, my son, and a very fine professional musician come down and play with me.  I think it’s going to be a very special night.”

Stephen said his workshop would be suitable not just for musicians but for anyone who wants to learn more about “the Eucharist, and how music can be used so powerfully to draw people into the mysteries being celebrated”.

“My hope would be that everyone who comes can leave knowing more about the majesty, beauty, and glory of the Eucharist, and how to unlock that for people who so desperately need the transformative encounter with Jesus that the Eucharist can and should be.”

Having visited Tasmania several times, including for the Evangelium Conference earlier this year, Stephen said he was looking forward to returning in November.

“I’ve visited quite a number of times over the years and have always come away blessed by my time with the people. 

“It’s such a beautiful place physically, but the people are even more beautiful.  I look forward to being with you all again, and I’m confident that Our Lord will meet us.”

Reserve tickets for Stephen Kirk Unplugged

Register for the Music in the Eucharist Workshop