thechorister RESOURCES FOR MUSIC MINISTRY RESOURCES FOR MUSIC MINISTRY august | september 2013 volume 65 | issue 2 December 2017/January 2018 Volume 69 | Issue 4

MusicalsSide By Side – Multigenerational with a mission! Music and Arts Envisioning Your Choir Program

PLUS + PLUS: Speaking the Words Top 10 Children’s Anthems Shape Up HELEN KEMP LECTURE FOCUS ON HYMNS SHINE A LIGHT by Alice Parker based on Hymns and Folk Tunes Your Rehearsal! by Terry Taylor by Betsy Henderson by Katie Houts In the IMage A New Children’s Musical From Mark Burrows

In the Beginning (of this fun and CREATIVE new musical)... we meet a group of children who have just experienced the story of The Creation. And now they’re starting to wonder what it really means to be created in the image of God. Through humorous, earnest exploration, the children discover that being created in the image of God isn’t about physical appearance. It’s about creativity, faithfulness, responsibility, community, and the ability to find the good in things.

In the Image is perfect for any time of the year and especially shines as a Worship Arts Camp or summer production!

For /two-part voices with piano and optional oboe (or C instrument) and percussion.

CGC63 In the Image Score – $8.95 CGRP41 In the Image Reproducible Instrumental Parts – $19.95 CGK32 In the Image Preview Kit – $14.95 CGCD63 In the Image Demonstration CD – $12.95 CGCDP60 In the Image Demonstration CD 10-Pack – $69.95 CGCD62 In the Image Accompaniment/Performance CD – $49.95 Place your order at www.choristersguild.org or 1-800-CHORISTER (246-7478) celebrate those special PReschool days! Thanksgiving Day * Valentine’s Day * Mother’s Day Graduation Day * A Day at the Zoo

Look no further, preschool teachers : this new collection is perfect for your holiday celebrations! Sue Hawkins Duckett’s delightful resource book includes five programs for special days throughout the preschool year. Each themed program includes 4-5 very short , the perfect length to perform for family and friends. No costumes or sets are needed for these musicals, which only require the precious voices of your littlest singers. Any floor can become the stage and any combination of instruments can lead the – use piano or guitar, or both, or none!

Includes Demo/Accompaniment tracks and suggested actions for each song. Appropriate for use in sacred or non-sacred preschool settings. CGC62 Mini Musicals: Five Short Preschool Programs for Special Days $29.95 Place your order at www.choristersguild.org or 1-800-CHORISTER (246-7478) Contents

CHORISTERS GUILD 12404 Park Central Dr. Ste. 100 December 2017/January 2018 Dallas, TX 75251-1802 800.246.7478 or 469.398.3606 469.398.3611 (fax) choristersguild.org

The Chorister is published bimonthly. Choristers Guild is a 501 (c ) (3) 2 From the Editor nonprofit, religious and educational corporation chartered under the 3 Shine a Light – Make a Difference laws of the State of Tennessee. by Katie Houts Choristers Guild Staff 4 Joy In Our Journey: DAWN JANTSCH Helen Kemp Lecture Executive Director by Terry D. Taylor [email protected] MARY ANNA SALO 9 Choral Notes: Executive Assistant [email protected] What's New From Choristers Guild ELLEN YOST 13 Focus on Hymns: Director of Marketing and Engagement What Child is This? [email protected] by Betsy Henderson KATHY LOWRIE Handbell Editor 16 Musicals With a Mission [email protected] by Lori Borger KATIE HOUTS Sacred Choral Editor 19 Calendar of Events [email protected] MARY LYNN LIGHTFOOT 20 Children’s Choir Devotions School Choral Editor by Members of Advent Lutheran Church [email protected] KAROL KIMMELL AND 24 From the National Board Past-President CHRIS NEMEC by Teri Larson Choristers Guild Institute Directors SUSAN EERNISSE The Chorister Editor [email protected] MEMBER AREA LOG IN choristersguild.org Advertising [email protected] or Looking for your Member Area Log in? Click Member (469) 398-3606, ext. 227 Log-in and Forgot Your Logon Information? Click Here. Type in the requested information and click submit. The Chorister Design You will receive an email with everything you need. Mara Dawn Dockery GET CONNECTED There’s a lot to like about Choristers Guild on the web. Our Facebook page is a place to connect with other Cover photo credit: members, share ideas and get info on special offers and Cover photo provided new music. Like us at facebook.com/ChoristersGuild by Lori Borger.

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 1 From the Editor

Board of Directors What is the soundtrack that is playing in your life these days? TERRY GOOLSBY I have just gone through several months of Khachaturian’s “Sabre President Dallas, TX Dance”. You know – frantically running to catch up, staying one day TERI LARSON ahead of the To Do list, checking Google Calendar multiple times daily Past-President to make sure I am in the right place, on the right day, at the right time? Maple Grove, MN As I turn the page to December, I am ready to change tracks. How ANDREW MASETTI about some “Still, Still, Still” or “In the Bleak Midwinter” or even a bit of Secretary-Treasurer Westfield, NJ “Silent Night”? Give me some Pentatonix, The Carpenters, or even “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” STEPHANIE MCILWAIN MILLER Bellevue, WA Many years ago, at the Freeman Family Thanksgiving lunch, my dad TODD ARANT stood to give a speech. Dad was always a model of gratitude and Apex, NC thankfulness. He asked that none of us purchase Christmas gifts for JOHN SUTTON Altadena, CA he and mother that year, and in the years to come. He said he wanted us to take the money and give it to a needy family, or to a charitable RUTH SZUCS Richmond, VA cause of our choosing. My husband and I, my 2 brothers and their SANDRA ROSALES wives, and most of the grandchildren did as Dad requested. Through Santa Ana, CA the ensuing years, numerous families and organizations benefitted from the generosity of my father. The thing was that though we spent Covenant Society the same amount of money, Dad helped us to simplify Christmas, and Please consider joining in the process, discover even greater joy in giving. Dad is no longer our Covenant Society–those who with us, but I still like to buy his gift each Christmas. “’Tis a gift to be have included Choristers Guild in their will or other estate plans: simple!” Thanks, Dad. LARRY K. BALL If you are looking for a mid-year, after Christmas reboot, why not BETTY BEDSOLE register for a conference to get back on track. The Atlanta and Dallas JUDY AND LARRY BRITTS REV. RICHARD F. COLLMAN CG Chapters host great workshops each January. Both workshops are JUDITH E. DARDAGANIAN January 12-13, 2018, and feature excellent clinicians. Thanks to all the JANET M. DAVIDSON CG chapters for providing great support to church musicians around NORMAN AND ETHEL GEIST the country throughout the year! TERRY AND PAM GOOLSBY C. MICHAEL HAWN JOANNA E. PRETZ-ANDERSON JIM AND STEPHANIE RINDELAUB MARY LOUISE AND DON VANDYKE PRISCILLA B. ZIMMERMANN Keep singing Material in this publication may the song! notbe reproduced in any form without permission, unless otherwise indicated. The publisher assumes -Susan no responsibility for return and safety of artwork, photographs, or materials. Acceptance of advertising or rental of mailing list does not imply endorsement.

2 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018 Shine a Light – Make a Difference

When I learned our school district had cut elementary general music programs for 2017-2018 and the foreseeable future, my heart sank. Music was my favorite class in elementary (and middle school, high school, college…), and it was my children’s favorite, too. As I wrapped my head around what this meant for my children – and the lasting impact of removing music from elementary classrooms – I felt deep sadness, disappointment, frustration, and disbelief.

Those four feelings prevailed for a solid few weeks and I could sense them snowballing to a darker place: anger. It was October, and I would brood at my desk, reminded of the school board’s decision every time the school bell rang a block away. But every now and then, I’d feel tiny glimmers of something. Excitement, maybe? Hope. Determination. Motivation.

One afternoon, I mustered up the chutzpah to email my kids’ teachers. “Is there any possibility that I could volunteer in the classroom a few times a month, doing a music enrichment activity with the kids?” I really had no plan. I just felt like I needed to ask the question. Both teachers answered with a resounding, supportive YES and immediately started talking about calendars and scheduling.

Oh boy, I realized. What have I gotten myself into? (I said with a smile.)

Those tiny glimmers of excitement and motivation are larger now. They grow each time I arrive at my son’s 5th grade classroom with buckets and chopsticks (which are a great, cheap alternative to rhythm sticks, FYI) and channel my inner Mark Burrows for some drumming fun. They grow the second I peek my head into my daughter’s second grade classroom and get mobbed with requests to play Circle ‘Round the Zero and Obwasimisa.

It’s not perfect. I’ve never taught in public schools, so I’m learning as I go. But we’re making music together, and that’s what matters. I wouldn’t have had the courage to send those initial emails if it weren’t for my friend, Terry Taylor. Terry was the Helen Kemp Guest Lecturer last summer for CGI, where he shared a very similar story (featured on page 4). His inspirational work with children in public schools and churches gave me the chutzpah to press ‘send.’ And his tireless commitment to bring music to the youngest voices among us gives me hope that the same will happen in my district.

Be encouraged, my friends. If you’re facing decreasing numbers or a smaller budget in 2018, don’t despair. They’re no match for a little bit of creativity, some chutzpah, and the Holy Spirit.

The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. -Katie

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 3 Joy in Our Journey THE 2017 CHORISTERS GUILD INSTITUTE HELEN KEMP LECTURE

BY TERRY D. TAYLOR

I’m honored to be here with you at the Choristers children’s music ministry. I want to talk about finding Joy Guild Institute and to share in this meaningful evening. in Our Journey and in our call as we minister and serve. Everything about the Institute is impressive, from the level of instruction, to the commitment of you who have In his book, A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, worked so hard to sharpen your skills. It’s been a delight Eugene Peterson quotes a daughter’s description of her to meet and visit with you, and especially to participate church-elder father, who was full of rectitude and rigid in your worship times that have been so rich. with duty: “He was completely unselfish,” the daughter said, “and in his long life, never committed a pleasure.” In my conversations yesterday and today, I’ve been Peterson goes on to describe the role of joy in the inspired to hear many of you speak about your “call” to believer’s life. “Joy is not a requirement of Christian discipleship,” he says, “It is a consequence.”

4 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018 JOY IN OUR JOURNEY: THE 2017 CHORISTERS GUILD INSTITUTE HELEN KEMP LECTURE

" Humility gives us the grace to acknowledge our limitations"

Those of us gathered here have many reasons to be When I lived in Oklahoma in the nineties, I joined the overflowing with joy. God has called us to ministry, and Central Oklahoma Chapter of Choristers Guild and was given us the glorious gift of music and the arts. God delighted to learn that John and Helen Kemp were has placed in our bones a passion to use these gifts to members and advisers in that chapter. They were help mold and shape children in the image of Christ. As so humble and accessible. I will always remember we talk about our journey of joy, I want to explore two the times they invited us into their home for “Muffin characteristics that will help us along the way. I believe Morning at the Kemps.” The guild officers would often these attitudes are essential, but we can’t necessarily meet at a local restaurant, and we would have casual pack them up before the journey begins. In fact, we are conversations about our ideas that were working or mostly unaware that these traits are at work until we not working. Like the rest of us, John and Helen shared happen to look back over our path from some scenic experiences that weren’t as successful as they had vantage point, or sometimes, from the ditch. hoped or planned. They were so open and vulnerability. Yet, they were not hesitant to launch out and serve The first of these characteristics is humility. Children when they saw a need or felt a call. often test our humility, and sometimes in a humorous way. A couple of summers ago, I directed the older children’s choir in a summer music camp. I introduced a new song, concentrating mostly on pitches and rhythms. After we sang through the entire song for the THE AMERICAN first time, Jonathan, a precocious fourth grader on the KODÁLY INSTITUTE front row, raised his hand. “Yes, Jonathan,” I said. “Mr. AT LOYOLA UNIVERSITY MARYLAND Taylor, you sang right through the rallentando at the bottom of page four.” SUMMER’S MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAM

• OAKE Endorsed Kodály Certification Levels I, II, III We can’t manufacture humility through our own • M.Ed in Kodály Music Education self-efforts, as illustrated by the fictional book title, • Elementary General or Secondary Choral Track Humility and How I Attained It. Rory Nolen, in his book, • Conducting Lab with AKI Demonstration Singers Heart of the Artist, emphasizes the need for us to • Develop conducting and choral rehearsal skills • Kodály scope and sequence based on current research choose servanthood over stardom, to concentrate on • Learn hundreds of canons, partner songs, and octavos people, to keep our message in mind, and to evaluate our motivations. Humility requires that we own our Apply Today! Courses run July 7-27, 2018 or mistakes and not blame others. Humility gives us the attend a Free Saturday workshop in January! grace to acknowledge our limitations, to ask for help, 4501 N. Charles Street • Baltimore, MD 21210 and to minister in community. It prompts us to avoid WWW.LOYOLA.EDU/KODALY defensiveness, to take instruction, to apologize, and Program Information: 240-993-9181 or [email protected] to forgive even in the absence of an apology. Humility Application Information: 410-617-7741 or [email protected] motivates us to mentor others, and to watch and HOW WILL YOU DRIVE EDUCATION celebrate from the shadows as their skills develop and ? their confidence grows.

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 5 JOY IN OUR JOURNEY: THE 2017 CHORISTERS GUILD INSTITUTE HELEN KEMP LECTURE

"We need to seek that sweet spot where humility and chutzpah intersect."

This leads me to the second characteristic for a joyful to end my access to the classrooms. The solution journey, and that is chutzpah – that Yiddish word for was for all three 5th grade classes to combine and boldness or audacity, that often flies in the face of so- meet together in the cafetorium for choral music and called conventional wisdom. recorder. There is simply no way to describe what it’s like to teach recorder to a group of ninety children! When I moved to Oklahoma, John and Helen had Thankfully, I had learned how to teach recorder from already retired from First Presbyterian Church in Michael Hawn, using a modified Suzuki method. Still, Oklahoma City. They were part of a small congregation after those recorder sessions, I would sit in my car for a that didn’t yet have an established children’s music few minutes and listen to classical music until a sense ministry. They naturally found opportunities to provide of intonation returned! musical experiences for children on Sunday mornings. I vividly remember their joy as they shared the progress Because music was making a dramatic impact in the the children were making in learning to match pitch and school, I wondered if there was a way to multiply my sing. I will always remember how they took advantage efforts. After a couple of years of volunteering, the of unique opportunities to teach children. principal was promoted to the central office. With her encouragement and cooperation, I gathered a small I had a similar opportunity in Dothan, Alabama. When group of interested individuals, and we launched a I moved there in 2000, the city school system had ten program called Encore, Bringing Music Back to Our elementary schools with no music teachers. A fellow Schools. We created a seasonal songbook with simple staff member at my church asked if I would volunteer to lesson plans, so that anyone with a limited amount of teach music at the school where his children attended. music in their background could teach. Through local I agreed, and he talked to the principal. Soon, I was church choirs, civic organizations, and Bridge clubs, we spending my Thursday afternoons with three individual enlisted and trained a small army of volunteers. For 5th grade classes, teaching choral music and Recorder two years, these amateur, volunteer “music teachers” Karate. This was the beginning of an adventure beyond provided a weekly musical experience for over 3500 my wildest imaginations. children in the ten elementary schools. At the end of each year, children from the ten schools would combine The 5th grade teachers told me that the atmosphere for a citywide concert at the local civic center. At the end of their classrooms was totally different on Thursdays. of the second year of Encore, the school superintendent They told me about children who would stand by the announced that professional music teachers were window and watch for my car to pull up. The teachers going to be hired back in the elementary schools. The said that music was helping their students become success of the Encore program helped me gain the more engaged and focused. Our evening concerts filled chutzpah needed to begin a small faith-based children’s the cafetorium, and strengthened parental involvement music company with Dora Ann Purdy called Dot Music in the school. Resources, to produce developmental appropriate songs and teaching materials. Through the vision and The project was not without its challenges. After a support of an arts-minded Christian businessman while, a new statewide reading initiative began, and named Tom McAfee, that company eventually became the required “protected reading time” threatened Growing in Grace Children’s Music Curriculum.

6 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018 JOY IN OUR JOURNEY: THE 2017 CHORISTERS GUILD INSTITUTE HELEN KEMP LECTURE

When I moved to Nashville to begin my full-time called the Trenton Children’s Chorus. Inspired and work with Growing in Grace, I eventually became the motivated by her experience, I called Sue Ellen. Though part-time Minister of Music at an urban church along she had retired from the Trenton Children’s Chorus, Nashville’s international corridor, south of downtown. I she was happy to help, and we had several lengthy learned that the elementary school across the street phone conversations, and exchanged quite a few from the church had 26 languages represented, more emails over the months that followed. Sue Ellen told than any other elementary school in Tennessee. Many about the early days of the Trenton Children’s Chorus, and her reservations about stepping out into this new ministry. She told me about her conversations with a friend named Alma Hill, who told her, “God is calling you to do this work. Now stop worrying, just go on and do it.” So with Sue Ellen’s counsel and encouragement, we stepped forward and started an outreach musical organization in Nashville called the Children’s Freedom Choir. We began with a series of summer music camps that have enrolled up to 100 children from 14 ethnic groups. We now have an ongoing outreach choir that will soon begin its second year.

It is often a challenge to “just go on and do it!” Our society, including our church culture, places a high value on outcomes, results, and efficiency. As a rule, we tend to value order over impact. But the more we cling to effectiveness, the more likely we are to take on smaller and smaller tasks, because they are the only ones we can control. The truth is, missional ministry can be messy. This is why we need to seek that sweet spot where humility and chutzpah intersect. This is the place where we push back against the rush and pressures of life, and present our brokenness to Christ. It’s the holy space we create in our lives where we listen to God, and humbly ask the Holy Spirit to nurture our inner wisdom of these children are refugees, whose families are and guide our dreams and our work. Then, we can step struggling for basic necessities, and striving to establish out in faith and joy, and embrace the chaos, knowing themselves in a new country. I remembered reading a that God can steer us best when we are moving forward. book years earlier titled, With Hearts and Hands and Voices by Sue Ellen Page. That book included a section In one of her emails to me in May of 2014, Sue Ellen that described her vision and work as she started an related a touching story from a Trenton Children’s outreach choir through Nassau Presbyterian Church, Chorus concert. This story has been so inspiring and

"God is calling you to do this work. Now stop worrying, just go on and do it."

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 7 JOY IN OUR JOURNEY: THE 2017 CHORISTERS GUILD INSTITUTE HELEN KEMP LECTURE

"Joy truly is a choice"

heartening to me, so I close with this message from profoundly moving experiences I’ve had, as I heard this Sue Ellen that exemplifies the Joy of the Journey, song beautifully shared, with such love and beauty all empowered by the humility and chutzpah that we around. I thought about how far the TCC has come since should take with us from this week: its meager inception in 1987 and note this experience for you from the vantage point of seeing the fruits of one’s Hi Terry, labors, now carried to the next step, and the next. Alma Hill was right: “God is calling you to do this work. Now First, I attended the spring concert of the TCC last night. stop worrying, just go on, and do it.” To my right was one of my sons who, as a kid, sang in The Covenant Singers (our extra mile choir with the TCC). He Susan Eernisse tells of a special schoolteacher friend plans to volunteer with the program next year. On my lap of hers who had a poster on the back of her door, so she was my almost three-year-old granddaughter. would see it each day before meeting her students. The poster said, “I Choose Joy!” Susan affirmed that joy truly She was delighting in the singing, and alternated is a choice: “It makes all the difference in our teaching – between standing in the pew ‘conducting’ as she has children see the difference, children feel the difference.” seen her Nana do most every Sunday, and sitting in my lap giving me hugs. In front of me was a toddler, the Psalm 90:17 from The Message says it this way: “And child of a former TCC member, now in the military. She let the loveliness of our Lord, our God, rest on us, was sitting with her grandmother, but looking back confirming the work that we do. Oh, yes. Affirm the work over the pew, smiling sweetly at me with Chloe on my that we do!” lap. The setting sun was flooding through the adjacent window, as we listened to one of the younger choirs “God is calling us to do this work. Now let’s stop worrying, singing, “What a Wonderful World.” It was one of the most just go on, and do it.”

Terry D. Taylor is the Managing Editor of Growing in Grace Children's Music Curriculum and a church musician, having served as Minister of Music in churches in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, and Oklahoma. Terry is widely respected for his interest, creativity, and leadership in music ministry to children. His anthems for children are published through Choristers Guild. The son of a pastor, Terry was born in Bowling Green KY and attended Cumberland University in Lebanon, TN, Belmont University in Nashville, TN and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY, where he received his Masters in Church Music with a conducting major. Terry's belief that all children should have the opportunity to sing manifests itself in many aspects of his life's work, through school and church choirs and community outreach.

8 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018 Choral Notes WHAT'S NEW FROM CHORISTERS GUILD | SPRING 2018

Treble Voices (Unison, Two-Part) LENT/HOLY WEEK/EASTER

Sing Hallelujah Mark Burrows EASTER This joyful anthem from Mark Burrows is bursting with the good news of Jesus’ resurrection! A sparkling two- part echo is the melodic foundation, making this a great choice for a combined-age choir. Obviously perfect for the Easter season, this singable anthem is also fitting whenever we celebrate Jesus at work in the world. CGA1526 Two-part with piano $2.25

The Lord Is My Light Do You Hear the Shepherd? Mark Patterson Kimberly Ingram BASED ON PSALM 27:1-6 BASED ON JOHN 10 GENERAL, LENT GENERAL, EASTER ROTE TO NOTE CHORAL SERIES Written in honor of Helen Kemp, this lyrical unison ballad from Mark Patterson exudes warmth and strength. A Our newest Rote to Note anthem highlights the parable flowing, expressive piano accompaniment grounds of the Good Shepherd – and it’s a charmer! The the piece, and optional bells or chimes punctuate the memorable melody stays within a six-note range, so message. The anthem ends with an inspiring coda early note-readers can easily identify staff movements depicting the house of the Lord, where Mama Helen is on the enlarged vocal staff. Imagine the wonderful certainly singing with joy. conversations about how God calls to us – and what that might sound like! The instrumental part (which depicts CGA1529 Unison/two-part with piano and $2.25 the shepherd “calling”) can be played by handbells, optional two octaves handbells handchimes, or Orff instruments and is simple enough

for choristers to play while they sing. CGA1527 Unison with piano and optional $2.10 handbells, handchimes, or Orff instruments

Order resources online at www.choristersguild.org or call 800-CHORISTER (246-7478)

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 9 CHORAL NOTES: WHAT'S NEW FROM CHORISTERS GUILD

Treble Voices (Unison, Two-Part) GENERAL

A Child’s Prayer tight spots. With a spirited, syncopated refrain and an Andrew Bruhn opportunity to feature a few soloists, Taylor presents TEXT BY MATILDA BARBARA BETHAM-EDWARDS this important biblical theme in a dynamic way. Part of GENERAL our Rote to Note series, with an enlarged vocal staff for HEATHER POTTER CHORAL SERIES early note-readers. Andrew Bruhn’s newest treble anthem is a humble and CGA1540 Unison with piano $2.10 heartfelt prayer - combining a text filled with beautiful imagery with a straightforward, almost haunting, melody. Everybody’s Got a Place in the Choir The largely stepwise melody makes this piece accessible Greg Gilpin for the emerging musician. The accompaniment is GENERAL well-suited for both piano and organ, while a charming Grab your neighbor and join the choir – because there’s descant provides a stunning complement to the simple a place for everyone! In this fun, energetic anthem from melody. Includes a reproducible congregational refrain Greg Gilpin, a memorable melody becomes a spirited for use in worship. two-part echo song. With a swingin’ accompaniment, CGA1528 Unison/two-part with piano or organ $2.10 this piece is a great way to celebrate God’s wide welcome and our shared identity as God’s family. The Children of God CGA1541 Two-part with piano $2.25 Nathan Smith BASED ON MATTHEW 5:7-9 The Fruit of the Spirit GENERAL Becki Slagle Mayo Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount – and specifically, the BASED ON GALATIANS 5:22-23 Beatitudes – is set in a delightful way by composer GENERAL Nathan Smith. A bubbly melody tells the story of A heartwarming new anthem from bestselling composer Jesus lifting up the merciful, the pure in heart, and the Becki Slagle Mayo. Lovely, lyrical lines capture the peacemakers. A beautiful, soaring descant enters on essence of this foundational bible text in a wonderfully the final refrain, fully supported by a wonderful piano musical way. Set in a cheerful 6/8, the melodic phrasing accompaniment. Consider pairing this anthem with a is perfection. An uplifting countermelody in the optional reading of Matthew 5:7-9, or use this musical retelling in Part II is doubled in the flute part. place of a spoken reading. CGA1535 Unison/two-part with piano $2.35 CGA1543 Unison/two-part with piano $2.25 and optional flute

Trust in God Terry D. Taylor GENERAL ROTE TO NOTE CHORAL SERIES “When you’re in a tight spot (a place you wish you were not),” what do we do? Choristers explore what it means to trust God in this fantastic new Terry Taylor anthem. Story snippets of Jonah, Paul & Silas, Daniel, and Esther show that God is with us when God’s people are in

Order resources online at www.choristersguild.org or call 800-CHORISTER (246-7478)

10 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018 CHORAL NOTES: WHAT'S NEW FROM CHORISTERS GUILD

Mixed Voices (SATB/SAB) GENERAL

What a Friend We Have in Jesus CGA1486 SATB with organ and optional $2.75 arr. Matthew J. Armstrong handbells, brass, timpani, TEXT BY JOSEPH SCRIVEN and congregation GENERAL CGRP42 Reproducible Instrumental Parts $19.95 This beloved hymn text is set to the tune BEACH SPRING The Day Is Coming in this inspiring arrangement for mixed voices. A lush Mark A. Miller piano accompaniment complements the gorgeous LAURIE ZELMAN part-writing, which includes optional divisi and an GENERAL opportunity to feature a soloist. With delicate, moving moments throughout, your choir will want to hear more In times of uncertainty and hopelessness, Mark Miller's from this composer! music reminds us that we are essential instruments of peace. This uplifting anthem empowers us to face CGA1530 SATB with piano $2.25 crises as faithful people of God, working together for a better world. Also available for solo voice and/or Let the Children Come congregation in CGBK72 Roll Down, Justice! (Waacheni Watoto Waje Kwangu) Mark Burrows CGA1524 SATB with piano $2.25 GENERAL, BAPTISM WE SING THE WORLD ROUND CHORAL SERIES Ascension Prayer Thomas L. Keesecker A bright, jubilant song of welcome! Composer Mark ASCENSION, GENERAL Burrows takes the tender story of Jesus welcoming children and sets it with exuberant energy. All God’s This earthy, purposeful anthem reflects on the children will be moving to the rhythm of this anthem, work of the people after Christ’s resurrection and which incorporates Swahili text and percussion ascension. The natural rising and falling of the phrase accompaniment. Vocally accessible and repetitive in all is a compelling representation of the disciple’s journey. the right ways, this is a great way to acknowledge and Without other accompaniment, voices move together accommodate children in worship. as one, bringing the piece from prayerful inception to CGA1531 SATB with percussion $2.25 focused completion. CGA1538 SATB, unaccompanied $2.10 When in Our Music God Is Glorified arr. Hal Hopson TEXT BY FRED PRATT GREEN GENERAL HYMNS OF FAITH CHORAL SERIES An exhilarating celebration of music! Hal H. Hopson's concertato on When in Our Music God Is Glorified is jubilant, powerful, and a stunning way to glorify God on any festive occasion. With handbells, brass, timpani, and a surprise inclusion of SINE NOMINE in the middle, the stanzas build to an impressive ending. Hearts and voices will be soaring after the final Alleluia!

Order resources online at www.choristersguild.org or call 800-CHORISTER (246-7478)

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 11 CHORAL NOTES: WHAT'S NEW FROM CHORISTERS GUILD

Mixed Voices (SATB/SAB) LENT/HOLY WEEK/EASTER

Broken Yet Chosen ending for Holy Week. This flexible anthem is a must- Mark A. Miller have for your choral library! LINDY THOMPSON CGA1533 SATB with piano and optional cello $2.35 GENERAL, LENT In this emotional new ballad from Mark Miller and Hosanna in the Highest Lindy Thompson, we ponder the possibility that God arr. Nancy Gifford would choose to use us – broken as we are – to bless PALM SUNDAY, GENERAL and heal others. The poignant text from Thompson A stately, jubilant way to celebrate the triumphal entry is set to a soulful, yet accessible, melody by Miller, of Christ on Palm Sunday! This three-part canon is which is easily adaptable for SAB and SAT voicings. accessible for any combination of mixed or treble voices. The result is a touching, powerful realization of God’s Handbells add sparkle to the accompaniment, which is grace and redemption. flexible for piano or organ. An optional Doxology text is CGA1537 SATB with piano $2.25 included for General use. CGA1534 Three part (any voices) with piano $2.10 A Resting Place or organ and three octaves handbells David Rasbach or handchimes LIDIE EDMUNDS GENERAL, LENT Should One Sheep Go Astray The newest anthem from composer David Rasbach is a Christopher Hogan breathtaking, compelling statement of faith. Salvation EASTER, GENERAL through Jesus Christ is proclaimed through an exquisite Here is an endearing, heartfelt anthem for SATB voices melody, rich harmonies, and a skillful accompaniment. from Christopher Hogan. The relationship between the A truly beautiful depiction of Christ’s love and sacrifice, shepherd and the lost sheep is poignantly featured in sure to be a stunning addition during Lent and Holy this piece. A beautiful harmonic structure, expressive Week worship. lines and supportive accompaniment soar into the final CGA1532 SATB with piano $2.25 stanza, where voices celebrate God’s gifts of grace and eternal life. Were You There? CGA1536 SATB with piano $2.25 arr. Brian L. Hanson LENT, HOLY WEEK, EASTER An outstanding arrangement of this beloved spiritual from the pen of Brian L. Hanson. Hanson’s choral writing uses unison lines in an intentional way, prompting an earnest response from the optional cello part. The delicate piano accompaniment seems to mark the passage of time as The Three Days unfold. A tonal change and dense piano chords signal the resurrection, and the climax, before the piece ends in hushed awe. A unique feature of this arrangement is the optional

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12 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018 U O C S WHAT CHILD F O N IS THIS? A Hymn Study for Young Choristers

BY BETSY HENDERSON Hymns

Hymn Writer: William C. Dix in 1865

N

Composer: 16th century English melody F

O

O

(harmonized by Sir John Stainer)

C S Hymn Tune: GREENSLEEVES U

Metric Structure: 8.7.8.7 with refrain (number of syllables per phrase)

FACT FINDER: There is a belief that the melody, ‘GREENSLEEVES’, first published in 1652, was written by King Henry VIII in honor of his future queen, Anne Boleyn. However, it likely predates him by hundreds of years as a cradle song. The title of this melody refers to a tradition by which all nobility was identified by the color of fabric worn on their sleeves. Each prominent family displayed a specific, distinctive color.

The seasonal text for Christmas was associated with the melody as early as 1686, even though the tune was more popular than the lyrics. By the 19th century, every Christmas carol collection had a version of the song. Written in England, it became more widely enjoyed in the United States. There have been more than twenty known texts associated with the tune, and it has been recorded by countless noted artists since 1956 to the present.

CLAIM TO FAME: The author, William Dix (1837-1865), a surgeon’s son born in England, became an insurance company manager while continuing his love of writing poetry. “What Child is This?” stemmed from one of his poems titled, “The Manger Throne”, with three stanzas set to music. At age twenty-nine, Dix became quite ill and was bedridden for a lengthy period of time, resulting in a spiritual awakening. He wrote over forty hymns, including another carol, named “As With Gladness, Men of Old” (1860). Although his name is not mentioned in most hymnals, Sir John Stainer (1840-1901) is given obscure credit for possibly setting Dix’s text to the familiar English tune. Stainer, an organist and composer who taught himself to also play flute, piano and violin, was the eighth of nine children born to a cabinet maker.

WORD PLAY: Written in A-B form, this hymn text in ‘verse/refrain’ format features a repeated, identical refrain for all verses. In poetry form, however, each B section has a different text message to correspond with the verses.

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 13 FOCUS ON HYMNS: WHAT CHILD IS THIS?

Activity: ~ Read the first stanza text aloud to discover the ‘question (measures 1 – 4) and answer’ (measures 9 – 12) theme, which tells the traditional Christmas story. Sing the first stanza, raising a hand when any reference to Jesus is sung. (child – measure 1; Christ the King – measure 10; the babe and son – measure 15)

~ Read aloud the question in stanza two (measures 1 – 4). Determine that the word ‘mean’ in this instance refers to the condition of the surroundings, which are less than would be expected for a king. Sing stanza two, increasing the dynamic level on the refrain.

~ In stanza three, one and all are invited to the manger, whether as peasants or kings, to greet the baby with loving hearts. The familiar gifts brought by the three wise men are named, changing ‘frankincense’ to ‘incense’ to fit the melodic rhythm in measures 1 and 2. Sing the third stanza with energy as the story comes to a climax. BONUS ~ Sing these words to the tune of the refrain as a variant published for stanza three of the poem:

“Raise, raise a song on high, The virgin sings a lullaby. Joy, joy for Christ is born, The babe, the Son of Mary.” TREASURE HUNT: Much of the ‘GREENSLEEVES’ charm comes from its lilting triple-meter time signature (6/8).

Activity: ~ Count the total number of measures in one stanza of the song. (16) ~ Find measures containing dotted quarter notes in the melodic line as cadence endings. (measures 8, 9, 13 and 16) ~ Tell what the shepherds do in the text? (watch and guard) What do the angels do? (greet and sing) BONUS ~ Besides incense, gold and myrrh, what the other gift are we asked to bring to the newborn king? (‘laud’ in measure 14)

BODY PERCUSSION To enhance the experience of singing this seasonal hymn, body percussion, unpitched rhythm instruments and/or a vocal descant may be added.

~ Practice counting six beats in each measure aloud, adding patschen on beats 1 and 4, clapping on beats 2 and 5 and snapping on beats 3 and 6. ~ Sing the refrain with this body percussion pattern on the steady beat.

1 2 3 4 5 6 pat clap snap pat clap snap

14 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018 FOCUS ON HYMNS: WHAT CHILD IS THIS?

RHYTHM INSTRUMENTS ~ Count six beats in each measure aloud, adding the suggested rhythm instruments on the steady beat. (hand drum on beats 1 and 4, tambourine on beats 2 and 5 and finger cymbals on beats 3 and 6) ~ Sing the refrain for each stanza with the suggested unpitched rhythm instruments or create your own accompaniment.

1 2 3 4 5 6

VOCAL DESCANT The following descant can be sung (or played) along with the A section (verse) of each stanza. ~Perform the B section (refrain) in unison as an exclamation of praise without the descant.

THE BIBLE TELLS US SO: During William Dix’s severe illness and brush with death, he reportedly read the Bible incessantly. Supposedly he wrote the poem, “The Manger Throne” after reading the account of Jesus’ birth in Matthew 2:1 – 12.

Activity: ~ Read the following verses of scripture aloud to seek inspiration that William Dix found during his spiritual awakening: Matthew 2:1-12 and Luke 2:6-20 (NKJV).

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 15 FOCUS ON HYMNS AND MUSICALS WITH A MISSION

CLOSING: Offer your own prayer giving ‘glory to God in the highest’, asking for ‘peace on earth, good will toward men’. A-men.

Betsy Henderson is currently the Children’s Music Coordinator at First United Methodist Church in Garland, Texas, and is the former Fine Arts Coordinator for Garland ISD. Betsy has served as elementary state chairman for both Texas Music Educators Association and Texas Choral Directors Association, receiving TCDA’s Choral Excellence Award in 2006. She was on the authorship team for two international music textbook series, Share the Music and Spotlight on Music for Macmillan/ McGraw-Hill Company as well as the sole author of teacher resources published by Hal Leonard Corporation. She is a co-author of Praise Takes Flight (CGBK68), a resource book for children’s choir directors, published by Choristers Guild.

MUSICALS with a MISSION BY LORI BORGER

16 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018 MUSICALS WITH A MISSION

Children + music + drama = a powerful combination for changing lives!

My 4th & 5th grade Music Makers Choir ties our annual Finding an organization that links to your message musical to a mission that aligns with our musical’s is actually kind of a fun, creative step. It provides message, and those two things - the message and the an opportunity to explore the myriad of outreach mission - thread their way through our entire choir. opportunities available, and sinks us deeper into the message, discovering how it directly translates into our Combining our musical with a mission helps to firmly world today. ground us in ministry. Our focus shifts a bit from what WE are doing to what we are collectively trying to For our musical with senior adults, we raised funds accomplish for OTHERS, through what we are doing. for Music & Memory, providing i-pods and i-tunes for Making a commitment to being and doing our very best seniors with dementia. “The Tale of the Three Trees” is an easier sell when it’s not just about US - the more benefitted an organization called Trees for Life. A we invest in our production, the more our audience will multicultural musical funded school desks and supplies probably invest in our goal to help others. for a new school in Mozambique. When the kids were the Army of God in “The Rock Slinger and His Greatest Some key components to fundraising with a musical: Hit”, we partnered with an organization that assists • Find a reputable nonprofit organization or project veterans, and sent care packages overseas to soldiers to which children can easily relate. from our home church. • Choose an organization that aligns with your Last spring, our musical was Kathie Hill’s “We Like musical’s message in some way. Sheep,” about the lost sheep. Our outreach was * Communicate your outreach goals in your obvious, since Heifer International is one of our favorite advertising & in person at the musical. organizations. Our initial goal was to fund one sheep ($120) for every child in our musical - 29. I always set

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 17 MUSICALS WITH A MISSION

a goal that I am SURE we can attain, and I also set a whiteboard covered with green paper. We took turns “DREAM GOAL” that I’m not sure we can actually reach. letting each child tape up a sheep onto the field for This one was easy: it’s the parable of the 100 sheep! each sheep they had funded, reminding them again of what even ONE sheep would accomplish. When we In choir, we learned how a sheep transforms a poor reached our goal of 29, there were cheers of delight! family’s life - providing food (milk, cheese & yogurt, plus Then I opened another box with more sheep. “More?? free fertilizer to increase garden yields), warmth (wool We went OVER 29?” When we passed 50, their eyes for blankets and sweaters), and an income (selling or were wide and mouths gaped open, some were trading extra dairy and woolen goods!). At Christmas, hugging each other. When we got close to 100, the our gift to each other was funding our very first sheep, giggles turned into screams. so the choir also participated in giving. We collected quarters in a clear plastic tube until they added up to In the end, these 29 kids funded 110 sheep and raised $120 - our Christmas sheep! over $13,000 with their musical! Heifer had a matching grant at the time, so their 110 sheep actually doubled The VERY BEST part of Musicals with a Mission is to 220 sheep, or $26,000! They went nuts. Can you revealing our fundraising total in choir the following imagine how empowering it is for a 4th or 5th grader to week. Building in a little anticipation makes it a lot more know that 220 families’ lives were going to be lifted out memorable and fun. I had cut-outs of sheep and a of poverty because of their sacrifice of time and talent?

18 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018 MUSICALS WITH A MISSION AND CHAPTER EVENTS

I believe the JOY of GIVING that they experience can be a recipe for developing lifelong mission-minded people. Who knows how many ways that initial mission might manifest itself over the lifespan of these children?

And by the way - the kids are just as excited when our totals are less dramatic. It’s not the amount raised, so much as the knowledge that they as children are fully capable of fulfilling our calling as Christians to feed and shelter the poor, help the downtrodden and sick, and embrace the outcast…at ANY AGE. They hopefully realize that they are not “the church of the future.” Each child is a uniquely gifted, capable and active part of the church TODAY.

Lori Borger is Director of Drama Ministry and Children’s Music Ministry at Manchester United Methodist Church in Manchester, Missouri. www.manchesterumc.org Related link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FooIWJPArF4

Looking for a great musical for spring or for a summer camp? Shop online at www.choristersguild.org. Chapter Events

Jan 12-13, 2018 Atlanta Chapter 2018 Mid-Winter Workshop Atlanta, GA Featuring Anton Armstrong TO LIST YOUR CHAPTER EVENT Contact [email protected] for more Send your listing to [email protected] with information or visit www.cgatlanta.org complete information. Include dates, location, clinicians, and contact information. For additional advertising, Jan 12-13, 2018 contact [email protected]. Dallas Chapter 2018 Church Music Workshop Dallas, TX Visit www.dallaschaptercg.org for more information March 3, 2018 Central Florida Chapter Children's Choir Festival First United Methodist Church, Orlando 142 E. Jackson St. Orlando FL 32801 Clinician: Anka Pink Contact Bonnie Litteral [email protected]

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 19 Children’s Choir Devotions BY MEMBERS OF ADVENT LUTHERAN CHURCH, HARLEYSVILLE, PA

The Children’s Choir devotionals have a different look in this issue. Thanks to Vincent Ryan for overseeing this creative project for December/January.

The Chorister Editor, Susan Eernisse, and I were sharing ideas about the devotions in this journal, when we realized that perhaps children could write them for their peers. Students in 3rd-8th grade at Advent Lutheran were divided into groups of 8 people. They were given a Bible verse that corresponded to the liturgical day or season. They were also given a worksheet and asked: 1) What does the verse say in your own words? 2) What is the background story? 3) Write several words that come to mind when you think about your verse. Students were instructed to think of a question to ask their friends regarding the verse, and begin their devotion with it (it helps to get the reader thinking). Finally, they completed their devotion with a prayer.

Since it took a bit longer than anticipated with the children, I solicited volunteers (mostly families) from our congregation to write the January devotions. The entire process was special for all those involved, as it empowered young and old alike to articulate their faith in a new way.

Vincent M. Ryan Minister of Music Advent Lutheran Church

DECEMBER 3, 2017 1ST SUNDAY IN ADVENT Stir up your might, and come to save us! Restore us O God; let your light shine, that we may be saved. Psalm 80:2-3

DEVOTION: When is the last time it rained a lot? How did you feel when the sun came out? Remember that God is in the rain and the sunshine. When we feel gloomy, God’s light will shine on us. When we feel joyful, God’s light is there also!

PRAYER: Thank you God, for the rain and the sunshine. Thank you for saving us from our gloomy days. Thank you for the light of your face; let our light also shine before others that we may glorify you!

3rd-6th grade Junior Choir

20 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018 CHILDREN’S CHOIR DEVOTIONALS

DECEMBER 10, 2017 2ND SUNDAY IN ADVENT Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. All flesh shall see the salvation of God. Luke 3:4,6

DEVOTION: When was a time you had to get ready for something? School? Church? Sports? There were probably certain steps you had to take. For example, if you are expecting company, perhaps you need to help straighten the house, or sweep the floor. During this season of Advent, we also need to prepare our hearts for Jesus, so that we may receive him at his birth.

PRAYER: Dear God, thank you for helping us prepare for the coming of Jesus. Help keep us on the straight path, always loving you. Amen.

3rd-6th grade Junior Choir

DECEMBER 17, 2017 3RD SUNDAY IN ADVENT Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; The Lord has done great things for us, and we rejoiced. Psalm 126: 2,3

DEVOTION: What makes you laugh? What makes you happy? Why were the people rejoicing in this verse? Because the Lord had done great things for us! Take time to be thankful for the things that make you happy and the things that make you laugh. Rejoice in your excitement.

PRAYER: Dear God, thank you for making me laugh! Thank you for doing great things for us. Help us appreciate everything you do for us. Amen.

3rd-6th grade Junior Choir

DECEMBER 24, 2017 4TH SUNDAY IN ADVENT (The Angel said) “For nothing will be impossible with God.” Then Mary said, “Here I am, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Luke 1:37-38

DEVOTION: Is there something that you thought you could not do? Did someone help you with it? If so, who? Try to think of God in times of trouble, and God will encourage and help you.

PRAYER: Dear God, thank you for guiding me in times of trouble, when I am scared, or when I just don’t know what to do. Help me to always look to you when I am afraid. Let me trust you as Mary did. Amen.

3rd-6th grade Junior Choir

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 21 CHILDREN’S CHOIR DEVOTIONALS

DECEMBER 31, 2017 1ST SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS My eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples. Luke 2:30-31

DEVOTION: What is something you need to wait for? We wait for things like the school lunch line, or perhaps graduation from high school or college. When you finally ‘get there,’ how do you feel? Satisfied? Relieved? Joyful? Or maybe disappointed? Simeon had to wait a lifetime to see the Lord, but when he finally did, he was fulfilled!

PRAYER: Dear God, thank you for giving us patience. Sometimes though, we lose our patience. Guide us in these times, so that we may live in your salvation. We ask this through Jesus’ name. Amen.

7th-8th grade Confirmation Class

JANUARY 7, 2018 THE BAPTISM OF JESUS And a voice came from heaven, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased." Mark 1:11

DEVOTION: When you are baptized, you become a child in God’s family. Whether you are baptized as a child or as an adult, you are entering, as a child, into God’s family. God is well pleased with you, as he was with Jesus.

PRAYER: Thank you, Jesus, for accepting me into your family and for loving me. Amen

The Greene Family

JANUARY 14, 2018 Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light. 4And God saw that the light was good. Genesis 1: 3-4

DEVOTION: There is an old game played by children - "Blind Man's Bluff". One person from the group is blindfolded (“kept in the dark”) and challenged to find the others. But unless the others give clues indicating where they are, they cannot be found. The blindfolded one has no hope of finding the others unless they are given clues. In other words, they need to see the light.

When Jesus called his first disciples he said to them, "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14) Thus we are to bring light to all people by passing on this blessing of light.

PRAYER: Savior Jesus, Grant that each of us may bring light to others so they may not stumble and fall in the darkness. We are called to bring people into a relationship with You as members of your blessed church. Be a guide to us as we share your beautiful light with others. In Your name we pray, Amen.

The Potter Family

22 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018 CHILDREN’S CHOIR DEVOTIONALS

JANUARY 21, 2018 And Jesus said to them [Simon and his brother Andrew], "Follow me and I will make you fish for people." And immediately they left their nets and followed him. Mark 1: 17-18

DEVOTION: Fishing requires the right equipment (and some luck!) to catch the type of fish we want. Every person is unique. Therefore, the way you address others depends on the person to whom you are speaking. Each person requires a different approach; it is similar to fishing! Can you imagine being so excited that you dropped everything and walked away, just to do God’s will? The disciples had complete faith that they would be equipped with the proper tools for their new job – to be fishers of people.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, help us to select the right equipment so that we too can fish for people. Help us to be so moved that we drop everything like Simon and Andrew. In Your name we pray. Amen.

The Garges-Shollenberger Family

JANUARY 28, 2018 The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned." Matthew 4:16

DEVOTION: We need to see and learn about God’s unwavering devotion to us. Through the Holy Spirit, we know that God’s love is all encompassing and never ending. During the dark periods of our lives, when there is little or no light, we can become anxious, fearful or doubtful. However, during these same dark days, we are we are strengthened by a new stream of grace, peace and forgiveness. All we have to do is believe in God, our light in the darkness.

PRAYER: Gracious Heavenly Father, you sent your son Jesus Christ to be our light in this world. Despite being constantly connected and upgraded we are pulled further and further away from you. Strengthen and renew us with your light, so we might better serve others and act as good stewards of your love and earth. Your will be done, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Ginny Ward

December 2017/January 2018 | thechorister | 23 From the National Board Past-President

In the season of Advent, we as Christians wait in expectant hope and look toward new beginnings. As your outgoing National Board President, I’d like to celebrate a new beginning for our organization as Terry Goolsby assumes the Presidency of the Choristers Guild National Board of Directors. I joyfully anticipate the many new accomplishments that we as an organization will see in the coming years under Terry’s Presidency and the leadership of our dedicated Board.

The past year has been a time of transition for Choristers Guild, as we said goodbye to Jim Rindelaub, welcomed new Executive Director Dawn Jantsch, and began a process of strategic review and analysis, identifying areas of opportunity to strengthen our organization and carry out our mission. My deep gratitude goes out to Jim and Dawn for their dedication and leadership, and to the Choristers Guild staff who work so hard to serve all of our members and stakeholders.

We have much to celebrate! Our choral and handbell publications continue to be recognized as setting the standard for high quality music and carefully-considered spiritual teachings, with more pieces than ever receiving editors' choice recognition and other top honors. The Choristers Guild Webinar Series continues to grow, this year serving more than 350 choir directors and presenting 8 clinicians on topics from hymns to yoga. This past summer we hosted the 9th annual Choristers Guild Institute and we are looking forward to marking our 10th year of the Institute next summer with an event that will welcome back CGI alumni, past faculty, and other key friends and supporters.

As we approach the 70th anniversary of the founding of Choristers Guild, we remain energized by Ruth Krehbiel Jacob’s belief that the children’s choir is vital to the future of the Church. I am most grateful for you, our members, who nurture that spiritual growth in the youngest souls across the nation. Now, more than ever, we need the message of love and peace to be heard in our country and in our world. Our children’s voices are voices of hope. Thank you for your heart-felt dedication in this important work.

Finally, I thank you for the opportunity to serve and look forward to continuing to work for the future of Choristers Guild together with you all.

-Teri Larson

24 | thechorister | December 2017/January 2018

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