As I’m writing this post, I’ve had some minor symptoms after getting the Pfizer COVID booster shot. When I made the appointment to get the booster the afternoon of November 7, I was hopeful, perhaps naively so, that I would escape without any symptoms. However, as an insurance policy, I made sure that the following […]
Creating Transformational Experiences: Repertoire
I’m in the process of finalizing the program for the Advent/Christmas Concert at my church. While it’s not 100% confirmed, the working title of the concert is Journey Through Darkness and Light. The ultimate goal is to provide a space for people to collectively stop, pause, and reflect on their faith through Advent/Christmas music, readings, […]
Creating Transformative Experiences: Rest and Pause
Just a few years ago, December 25 was on a Sunday in 2016. At the church I served at the time, all were encouraged to wear their PJs to church, including staff. As it turns out, only staff dressed in that way, including me! I dressed in PJ bottoms, t-shirt with a fleece, and slippers. […]
Creating Transformative Experiences: Concerts and Special Events
Now that we are well into the program year, my guess is that many of you might be thinking ahead to events in December. Before the pandemic, many of us may have hosted a concert or special worship service celebrating the Advent and Christmas seasons where we crammed singers into the Chancel or onto a […]
Creating Transformative Experiences in Worship and Rehearsals
I live in Jacksonville, FL and frequently I go to the beach. Labor Day weekend had some beautiful and perfect beach weather. However, on one particular day, the waves were too rough to swim. So I sat and watched the ocean, read, and at times stood ankle deep in the water. Since I live 25 […]
Modulating/Adjusting to a New Era: Closing Thoughts Part 2 of 2
Welcome to this summer series on questions and possibilities for a new era in our personal lives, professional lives, the choral landscape, and in society! I’m so glad you’re here for the journey. By now, many of us have started rehearsals again for the year, whether in a school, worship, collegiate, or community setting. In […]