29/09/2026
The Story Behind the Music by Janet Swain
Be Still - Songs for the Listening Heart - 10 Original songs by Janet Swain inspired by the writings of Fr Tony Doherty
Twenty-five years ago, a dear friend of mine — a dance teacher named Anita — introduced me to one of her students, a dancing nun, who in turn introduced me to Father Tony Doherty. It was kind of love at first sight.
I'd grown up in a Methodist household, but I was Catholic-curious, wanting to dive into the history and traditions of the church, and Tony was the perfect person to help me do it. We started meeting for classes together — really more about philosophy, exploring a humanist approach to faith — and it was one of the most profound and beautiful times of my life. Tony went on to marry me to a good Catholic man at St Mary's Cathedral, and later baptised my son Lenny in its crypt, with Tibetan chanting and Sufi singing filling the space. That's Tony — so open, so welcoming, always curious to learn and experience something new.
Over the years we stayed close, catching up whenever we could. Tony kept writing his books and deepening his relationships with all kinds of people at Rose Bay Parish. I lived overseas for a long stretch, building choirs wherever I landed and writing original music, my love of spirituality only growing.
Last year, Tony — retired now, and living quietly in Watsons Bay — gave me a copy of his book, Struggling to Believe. Its ten chapters moved me so deeply that I decided to write a song for each one. I took myself off to a house overlooking the ocean in Yamba, and over three days, the songs just poured out. That's how Be Still was born.
These songs are my own interpretation of Tony's words, and also of Sister Patty Faulkner's — and the spirit behind them. They're about love, belonging, questioning, wondering, earth, sea, sky, and what Tony calls the Gracious Mystery. I wrote them to be sung by congregations, school and community choirs, and soloists — I kept thinking of 15-year-olds stuck singing boring songs at school, and wanting to give them something interesting and inspiring.
I'll never forget the recent experience of playing some of the songs to Tony one sunny afternoon at his place, with the harbour sparkling outside. He sat with his eyes closed, listening, commenting here and there. It was one of the most peaceful, beautiful moments I've ever experienced.
Because Tony can't travel far these days, we're lucky enough to be holding the launch in the small hall right next door to his home. A small, select choir will sing the songs, with some prayers and reflections woven through. We'd love for some of Tony's friends to be there — to celebrate, through song and prayer, an extraordinary life and the deep mark he's left on so many people, from all walks of life.
The Sydney launch of Be Still, Songs for the Listening Heart will be held on ###x
Please join us
RSVP - [email protected]
