Music In Worship

FROM THE CHOIRMASTER & ORGANIST

When I think of Music in Worship, I am reminded of an engraving on a bench on the quad of my alma mater that reads, “How many of us ever stop to think of music as a wondrous magic link with God, knowing no race, color, nor creed, but giving each according to their own need.” I quote this to our choirs often. These words reflect an idea that is central to my work as a sacred musician; music has the power to connect us across dividing lines. This past week I had two beautiful opportunities to see that thought in action: An ecumenical prayer service at the summer conference for the Arkansas chapter of the American Choral Directors Association, and AIC Choir Camp.

For nearly a decade I have served the American Choral Directors Association (one of the largest professional organizations for choral musicians, conductors, sacred musicians, and singers) in South Carolina and Arkansas as the Repertoire and Resources Chair for music in worship. On July 1, I was appointed the national coordinator for lifelong choirs. In this role, I oversee music in worship and community choir activities. But for what does the ACDA advocate? ACDA strives to begin “a new paradigm, a better way, and a concept of choral excellence encompassing musical artistry and the principles of inclusion and radical hospitality.” Radical hospitality is something that resonates at St. Paul’s…we show it in spades. On Monday night, for the first time in my tenure, I was able to present an ecumenical prayer service and reading session.

The evening was a hybrid offering that was part ecumenical prayer service, loosely based on the Anglican Evensong, and choral reading session. A reading session is where participants receive a packet of music for their choice of choir (junior high, middle school, collegiate, music in worship, etc.) and then a presenter gives tips and tricks for teaching the music, and the technical skills taught through the piece. The musical selections were closely related settings to the prescribed elements, and included texts came from various faith traditions and worship styles. Unlike normal reading sessions, there were no explanations, background, or practical tips given on the specific selections. Rather, we collectively (yes, the congregation, too!) read the music straight through, in the context of the service. The music was from the Gospel, Jewish, and Anglican traditions and included poetry by Mary Oliver and texts from the Tao, to name a few. It was stunning. It was sacred. It was healing.

After the service I received an email that said: “I swore off church gigs a few years ago for my own mental health. That being said, last night’s service was exactly what my tired soul needed. Growing up a lesbian and a Christian in the Bible Belt was and is hard. Hurtful and unfair. I’ve been big hurt by “The Church” far too much. Last night was the embodiment of “come as you are.” It was incredibly poignant and beautiful. I felt peace I haven’t felt in years.” This is it folks; music has the power to heal, to bridge divides, build communities, and offer a glimpse of God.

Another place that I find such community, goodness, and beauty is at AIC Choir Camp. AIC Choir Camp, founded nearly 50 years ago by our very own Charlie Rigsby, is a highly anticipated staple of my summer. For one week a year a group of selfless, generous, and tireless individuals come together at Subiaco Abbey to create a magical and memorable experience for our campers. At camp, children are immersed in the beautiful music and liturgy that our Episcopal heritage so readily provides. In addition, the campers perform in a Broadway musical review, arts and crafts, history, games, pool time, nightly evensongs, and so much more. While this is an adequate description of camp, it falls wildly short in conveying the magic, mayhem, joy, community, growth, and fun you experience on campus.  

Charlie’s teacher, the famous church musician and composer Leo Sowerby, insisted that for any musical program to thrive, one must have a chorister camp. He was right; we must plant the seed. Our current choristers are the future of church music in America. Without them what will become of our musical tradition, our choirs, our worship? Their song is powerful. Their song indeed bridges divides and soothes the soul. It is profound experience to witness all that these children can accomplish in one short week (let alone a full year), and it gives me much hope for the future.

Are you or your child interested in joining choir? We would love to have you. Curious to know more about our hymns and singing tradition? Make sure to attend Carol Nave’s August adult forum at 10:00 am. And finally, regardless of if you are in the choir or in the pews, just remember what St. Ceclia said: “Those who sing well pray twice.’”


Jack A. Cleghorn

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