4 - Starsail (Comet Version) by Clarityharp

I have re-recorded this piece because it is precious to me, and because my skills have developed significantly since that first pass. Some time ago, I met Chris Lind, a well-known lay theologian and teacher I greatly admired in my Diocese, but before I could have that first cup of coffee with him, he was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour. After a tearful and incredibly holy encounter with him on Good Friday that year (only days after the unexpected death of my father), I decided to bring my harp to play for him in the hospital. There I met his two adult children, and a beautiful friendship developed between the three of us: the two of them awaiting the death of their father, and myself having lost mine without any preparation. While visiting, I played several songs they enjoyed, and decided to include “Starsail,” which I had written recently on a VST retreat where we studied baptism. Chris, his wife Anne, and Aaron and Emma adored this piece, so I recorded it for them. They told me later they listened to it on a loop with Chris, and I was privileged to play it live for him a few more times, including by his bedside when he was in hospice. It became a sort of anthem for us, especially Emma, Aaron, and me, and every time I play it now I think of Chris, his smile, his audacious hope, and the beautiful smiles of his children, my “big bro” and “big sis.” I release it on his birthday. The only thing missing from this take is the help of my other band, “Songs with Friends.” Maybe one day you’ll get to hear that version too. The subtitle "Comet Version" refers to this quick and upbeat arrangement; when I play this piece in sacred settings I often slow it down. I call that one the "Starfield Version."