Enabling Transformational Experiences: Stillness

As a church musician, I believe that the confidence ensembles have makes a profound difference in their ability to lead worship. Part of that means knowing what choir needs. Sometimes that’s the appropriate technical information with ringing or singing; for example, a reminder about breathing for a vocal choir or flow in how a bell choir is ringing. Other times, it’s the best metaphor or story to emotionally connect the ensemble to the music. Or perhaps it’s helping shift the mindset in the room. I find that the right mindset can transform a rehearsal, a piece of music, a phrase. In that context, I thought I would share a scenario that occurred within the past week that reminded me of the importance of stillness in music making, especially with regards to mindset.

I led a rehearsal last Thursday where things just weren’t clicking. We spent much longer on a piece than I had expected. Something was in the air. And it wasn’t a full moon. Perhaps you’ve had those rehearsals. In addition, we were ringing as arrangement of As the Deer for the Prelude on Sunday in worship. From past experience, I knew that we would ring the piece well and our short Sunday warm-up would unify the anthem. On the other hand, I know that mindset impacts so many aspects of music making. This piece was well within the ensemble’s skill level to play it musically with inspiration. However, I didn’t want a shaky rehearsal to color their confidence for worship. From Thursday’s rehearsal, I had a sense that we may not approach Sunday from a mindset of stillness, keeping in mind Psalm 46:10. As a result, this is an email I sent the ensemble on Saturday.

“Greetings,

Some of you may not this before tomorrow and that’s OK. A verse came to mind earlier today:

Be still, and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

This is a verse I’ve thought a lot about. Stillness is an interesting concept. If you were to sit perfectly still, you may notice that you hold your breath and/or hold some physical tension. Even when we’re sitting, our blood is flowing, our lungs moving, and we breathe. I also believe that the Spirit of God is constantly moving. So, it’s curious that God would use such a curious word as “still”.

Perhaps stillness is more closely related to being present and trusting in God. Perhaps stillness has a connotation of being quiet. That seems to make sense. Communion is generally quiet. That often feels like a still moment in worship. Listening also feels like stillness is involved. Generally, if I get out of my own way and let go of control, I tend to hear God and others more. That’s a kind of stillness that also makes sense to me.

Tomorrow we have the great privilege to help usher people into worship during the Prelude. I’m really looking forward to present this piece and enabling stillness and focus on God for all those attending and participating online.

In case it would help, I attached a recording. I invite you to close your eyes and listen to it. Remember to breathe while listening.

See you tomorrow at 10:20 am in the Sanctuary!

Austen”

In case you’re wondering which arrangement I used, here is the link to the piece:

https://www.hopepublishing.com/W2916_AS_THE_DEER

On Sunday, we warmed up, had a run through or two, and solidified a few sections. Both the pre-service rehearsal and the presentation of the piece in worship was very expressive.

In addition to thinking about stillness for my ensembles, I’m revisiting the concept for myself. Generally the more my mind is still and quiet, but engaged, the better I listen and the more informed and wiser are my decisions. Keeping that mindset is easier said than done. We’re still in a pandemic and especially with the Omicron variant, there’s a good chance that at any rehearsal, I could find out at the last minute about yet another choir remember needing to quarantine. Or in the course of the week, it’s easy to get swept along with stressful situations and lose that stillness. There are several activities that help me get back to stillness, such as:

• Determining my priorities for the week
• Journaling, even for a few minutes
• Breathing deeply in and out for a few cycles
• Listening to music that centers me

What are some techniques you use to become still? You are welcome to comment below.

One of the greatest joys is being fully present in a rehearsal or a worship service and making music on a deep level with others. May we all find that presence and stillness this week.