This is the first Easter I’ve spent away from family, so I thought I’d share some of the music that helps me feel less far away:

“The Palms” by Jean-Baptiste Faure. This piece of music was performed every year by all the choirs at the church I belonged to growing up. It was the only time the whole year that all four choirs performed together. I couldn’t find a choral version that was as magnificent as the 100-150 of us echoing through a huge stone church, so I offer you this version, instead:

There’s no video here, but who can argue with Gene Autry performing one of the season’s best-known songs, “Peter Cottontail”:

My favorite Easter hymn, “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today”:

And from one of the best rock operas, Jesus Christ Superstar, I give you two songs. “I Don’t Know How to Love Him”:

And “Superstar”:

Happy Easter to all of you and your families! I hope the holiday is filled with hope (and chocolate).