As a Paulist novice, Rosado has to perform the normal tasks of a novice, but he was also told he needed to do something “on his own terms” in the parish. This became his enthusiastic project.

A native of New York, Rosado holds a Master of Music degree in composition from the Manhattan School of Music.

His songs are based on texts from the New Testament, which he sang and performed at the piano. His goal with the series was to lead the listener through a deep reflection of the key biblical events that inspired his compositions.

“An art song, in general, is specifically written to recreate the scene as dramatically as possible, whether it be picturesque or emotion-driven,” Rosado said. “Every note is written with the intention that the listener can plainly see the entire scene unfolding and experiences what the characters experience, both emotionally and scenically.”

To inspire the listener, Rosado tries to convey the emotions using speed, volume, texture and his own gestures at the piano. But before the performance, he includes a reading of the biblical texts that inspired him. Afterwards he leads his audience in a reflection and a discussion about their own reactions.

“The Sacred Art Song series highlights that the imagination is a tool to experience God authentically,” Rosado said. “It is a variation of what we call contemplative prayer, which delights in the intimacy of His presence.”

Rosado began accompanying choirs and vocalists at church during his teens. He worked extensively as a music director and organist throughout the diocese of Brooklyn, where he got a taste of a wide range of music ministry styles, from traditional music to modern gospel.

One African-American parish, he said, helped deepen his appreciation for music’s ability to reach peoples’ souls.

“They were so cultural, so vibrant. They showed me that music can be experiential,” he said.

Rosado decided about three years ago that he was called to pursue the religious life, but music is definitely something he doesn’t plan to leave behind.