Renowned for his Grammy award-winning talent, Ray Herrmann has graced the stage of concert halls and recording studios alongside prominent pop and jazz icons like LeAnn Rimes, Christina Aguilera, Earth, Wind & Fire, Santana, and George Benson, just to name a few. His career extends to numerous appearances on acclaimed television programs such as “The Tonight Show,” “The Late Show,” and various TV specials. Ray’s musical involvement also shines beyond the limelight, recording over 200 albums and motion picture soundtracks. For the past fifteen years, Ray has been actively touring and performing with the Grammy Hall of Fame band Chicago, and in the past, he performed on the popular TV series “American Idol” as a member of the house band for over seven seasons. As a composer and arranger, Ray has left his mark on the works of several eminent artists within the music industry. This multifaceted musician, along with his wife, Theresa, and daughter, Maria, stand as co-founders of Little Lamb Music, a notable venture in its own right.
Music has always been central to Ray’s life since his upbringing in Chicago, Illinois. Commencing his musical journey at a young age, he initiated his piano study at age six, followed by the addition of the clarinet at the age of seven. As he progressed through high school, Ray’s passion led him to embrace the flute and saxophone. Following his pursuit of musical excellence, Ray attained a Master of Music degree from the esteemed University of North Texas, an accomplishment that brought him to the vibrant hub of Los Angeles, where he collaborates with some of the most prominent figures in the music business.
In their reflections, they often emphasize profound gratitude towards their parents, who instilled in them a steadfast commitment to God’s presence and the practice of their Catholic faith through regular attendance at Mass, cherishing the sacraments of the Church, and engaging in devote recitation of the Rosary. They firmly believe that prioritizing God first paves the way for harmonious alignment in all other aspects of life.
Curiosity often arises concerning the partnership between Little Lamb Music and the Redemptorists. Interestingly, it was the Redemptorists who sought out Theresa through their website, www.littlelambmusic.com, with the intent of reproducing the music of St. Alphonsus Maria Liguori to raise funds for their missions in Brazil and Nigeria. Without hesitation, they embraced the opportunity to collaborate with this esteemed group of missionaries. Along the way, they learned about St. Alphonsus’ devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help, and his book “The Glories of Mary.” As a result, the creation of a distinctive “one-of-a-kind” Rosary CD evolved, featuring the original painting of Our Lady of Perpetual Help on the front cover. An icon Pope Pius IX entrusted to the Redemptorists to “make her known throughout the world.” The culmination of this collaboration resulted in a remarkable 2-CD set encompassing all 20 decades, making it the first Rosary CD to showcase the music of a saint.
Significantly, this recording marks the first instance of St. Alphonsus’ music being recorded in the United States and translated into English. St. Alphonsus’ melodious compositions, known for their simplicity and singability, reflect his desire to connect with the common man through his hymns. Yet, beneath the apparent simplicity lies a profound depth, touching not just the human spirit but also the soul. The meditations featured on the Rosary CD, are all derived from St. Alphonsus’ writings, particularly his magnum opus, “The Glories of Mary.” They have been thoughtfully curated to immerse the listener in the experience of praying alongside the venerable saint. To elevate the musical experience, internationally renowned singers and musicians from the Los Angeles Master Chorale and the Los Angeles Philharmonic lent their talents rendering this endeavor all the more extraordinary.
Recently, Little Lamb Music added another compelling offering to its repertoire – the production “Praying the Way of the Cross with St. Alphonsus Maria Liguori, featuring Liam Neeson,” a poignant offering for Lent. As you explore the diverse collection curated by this company, may you be graced with the intercession of our Blessed Mother, while fostering a profound connection with Jesus and a deep sense of service and love for Him.