Echoes of Light: Mark Fenster’s Journey Through Sound and Spirit

Following his ongoing exploration of music as a conduit for healing and connection, Gabriola Island-based composer, vocalist, and meditation leader Mark Fenster unveils his latest single “Sacred Yearning” – a meditative, neo-classical journey blending the spiritual traditions of Indian Classical music with Western strings and vocalese. The track conveys a heartfelt longing to connect with the Divine, capturing both the devotion and joy inherent in musical collaboration.

Featuring a unique fusion of instruments and styles, “Sacred Yearning” showcases Fenster’s collaboration with Sharanjeet Singh Mand, whose vocals and musicality guided the session, and Rishi Rajeev on Tabla, whose energy added vibrant rhythm to the piece. “Sharanjeet’s beautiful spirit and musical prowess collage in a manner that allows music and the love it has to flow with ease and power,” Fenster notes. “I adore his openness and freedom of expression, as I do the blessings of the Tabla and spirit brought to us by Rishi Rajeev on this piece, his very first recording.”

As part of Fenster’s ongoing musical philosophy, “Sacred Yearning” reflects a devotion to spirit, art, and being. “The yearning for the Divine is a yearning to discover all that we already are,” he says. “We must allow this light to shine without distraction or diversion. It’s about just being you and finding celebration in that discovery!”

“Sacred Yearning” conveys a sense of calm, energy, and spiritual uplift, blending meditative Indian Classical elements with Western Neo-Classical textures: strings, Hurdy Gurdy, vocalese, Sitar, and Tabla, all working in harmony to create a transcendent listening experience. The result is a soundscape that invites the listener to enter a space of reflection and connection, where the boundaries between tradition and innovation gently dissolve.

Born in Montreal, Quebec, Mark Fenster was first discovered by producer Ben Kaye, known for work with Céline Dion and Michel Pagliaro. Over the years, Fenster has collaborated with members of renowned Canadian bands April Wine, Luba, and Chilliwack, and performed with the Vancouver Opera for nine seasons. His compositions have contributed to Jessie Award-winning productions, while his songs have been featured across television, film, and choirs worldwide.

In 2010, alongside his daughter Zoe, Fenster launched Cantoria: The Musical Project for Peace. This initiative seeks to unite multiple religious traditions under the ideals of love, unity, and connection, reflecting his belief in music’s transformative power. Today, his artistry continues to combine music, meditation, and compassion into a single mission: healing and peace through music.

Sacred Yearning is a natural extension of Fenster’s commitment to creating music that transcends boundaries and invites spiritual awakening. The collaboration with Sharanjeet Singh Mand and Rishi Rajeev enhances the song’s depth, merging vocal and instrumental traditions with sensitivity and grace.

Listeners will find in this track a rare blend of spiritual devotion and artistic exploration. It serves as both a meditation and a celebration — an invitation to recognize the light within and to honor the shared human longing for connection with something greater than ourselves.

Mark Fenster’s work stands as a reminder that music can be a vessel for healing and a bridge between cultures. Through Sacred Yearning, he offers a space where sound, spirit, and heart converge, opening the door to profound listening and inner reflection.

Whether familiar with Indian Classical music, neo-classical composition, or simply seeking a moment of calm and inspiration, audiences will appreciate the song’s rich textures and heartfelt intention. Sacred Yearning is a testament to Fenster’s ongoing dedication to creating meaningful music that touches the soul.