Peg Luke on Faith, Healing, and “Mary Did You Know”

As the holiday season approaches, Peg Luke brings new warmth to a timeless Christmas classic. Her evocative version of “Mary Did You Know” brings together soulful orchestration with deep emotional expression. This interview is a reflection of her journey, her faith, and the hope she continues to share through music.

1. “Mary Did You Know” is one of the most beloved Christmas songs of all time. What drew you to create your own interpretation of this classic, and what personal meaning does the piece hold for you?

Thanks for having me! I have always loved the melody and lyrics to “Mary Did You Know.” It always hits me in my soul when I listen to the original version. The music and the lyrics have such depth. When I am truly moved, I know I need to create my own version, and this version of the tune just kind of presented itself. I like a light Caribbean vibe and it just seemed to work here. I think this piece of music holds such a place of hope and love, and we could all surely use a dose of this right now.

2. Your arrangement blends expressive flute lines with piano, guitar, and warm orchestral textures. Can you walk us through how you approached shaping the sound world of this version?

Of course. I started with the original score and grew my musical line out of that.  My orchestrator, Tom Capek, and I decided on the specific instrumental parts including the specific Spanish guitar riff at the beginning. We added some really fun percussion as well. The more you listen to the music the more it starts to emerge. It was truly a fun collaboration. I have worked with Tom on many occasions, so we have started to understand each other’s musical style very well. I think this tune is a perfect example of our teamwork!

3. The music video features gentle, angelic imagery of Mary and baby Jesus. How did you collaborate on the visual concept, and what message were you hoping viewers would take away from it?

I actually put together the video myself while my management engineered the engaging cover photo and font. I started off filming myself here at home with Sony cameras and then used Filmora for film editing and LightStock for the Mother and Child images. I utilized a new technique made possible by AI and I superimposed the video behind the images. It took time and effort but I think it was worth it. I think the video has a “home spun” Holiday feeling empathizing what the true meaning of Christmas is. I think it worked.

4. Was there a particular moment during the recording or arranging process when you felt especially moved or connected to the story behind “Mary Did You Know”?

Given my specific situation that I deal with, (having a debilitating autoimmune disease in which there is no cure and no known treatment) I commune with God all the time so I can honestly tell you that there are countless times when the Birth of Jesus gives me hope, happiness and gratitude. When I compose, record and perform music such as “Mary Did You Know” it just brings me closer to God’s loving gift for all of us, Jesus. It is truly special.

5. You began playing piano at five and flute at seven. How has your early classical foundation evolved into the expressive, spiritually driven style you’re known for today?

Wow, so much has evolved since then! I know my love for music still exists and that love initially led me to music early on. My experience in the music world has ebbed and flowed, but I’m still at it, and I think my early music teachers would be proud of what I’ve become.

6. Your battle with a life-altering autoimmune disease has brought major challenges. How has it shaped your relationship with music and creativity?

Well, it has totally changed my career. It has taken me off the performance stage. It has taken me out of the teaching studio. What’s left is the Internet. And there is so much content on the web it is easy to get lost in the melee. But somehow God has brought me out of the shadows, out of my pain, out of my struggles and helps me to keep making essential music for the masses. I believe it is a miracle of sorts. It does not get any easier with this rare disease. It definitely has made me stronger in my soul and in my musical commitment. Many times I wanted to quit, and it would be so easy, but you see, God is Still Speaking (not me)!

7. Living in Colorado near the Rocky Mountains, do the natural landscapes or the quiet surroundings influence your creativity or spiritual mindset?

Absolutely! The sky is wondrous around here. There is a lot of unseen magic around here.  Wherever I live, it seems I find God’s miracles all around!

8. What do you hope listeners feel, remember, or reflect on when they hear your version of “Mary Did You Know”?

I hope my listeners know that we are celebrating a Birthday, a Birthday that affects all of us!  God brought His Son into the world to save us from ourselves!

9. Are there other sacred songs, classical works, or original compositions you’re hoping to explore or interpret in your upcoming projects?

Funny you should ask…I am getting ready to “go dark” for a year or so (although I will still be bringing small musical online gifts to my audience). Sometimes artists need to “inhale and exhale.” It’s time to relax. It’s time to create. It’s time to put away some of this pressure musicians and creatives can feel. I really look forward to this mental health cleansing break. I have a few projects in mind. One encompassing a new version of the JS Bach Flute Sonatas and another working on a musical devotional project called “52 Weeks”.  Stay awake and keep watching just as we do in this upcoming Holiday Season!

With this latest release, Peg Luke continues to share her journey with clarity and courage. Her storytelling, her faith, and her music remain deeply intertwined, offering listeners a moment of peace in a noisy world.