Our music director in our LCMS church is really pushing for more "contemporary" music in our services, not just in our Wed. night contemporary service (which I rarely attend). That has always bugged me, even me coming from a trumpet player! (an instrument that stereotypically brings out the ego and brashness in a player)
One thing that she is wanting to do is put a baby grand piano down front next to, or (Heaven forbid) in place of our baptismal font. My wife and I have argued against her in many ways, but one has to do with your Quote today. She does not believe that putting a piano down there for special music would be any kind of indicator of a "show." I disagree, again, as big-headed trumpet player. Our place, as musicians, is in the balcony where we belong, playing appropriate music, bringing the Word in music, not showing off our prowess!
Sigh...
BTW, I love playing the 500 year old hymns. LSB has an instrumental edition with instrumental parts, especially with descant. I'm really enjoying getting into that.
There is a right way to make your joyful music without doing it for display or show.
Frequently, people tell me that they enjoy hearing me sing the liturgy. It has often made me feel as though I shouldn't participate, but I can't not participate. I thank them for their kind words and then try to get over it.
It's a hang up remembering the old days when the response was the reason. My issue, I know, and I try very hard to be gracious, even while my skin crawls.
Pr. Weedon,
ReplyDeleteThis quote really says something to me.
Our music director in our LCMS church is really pushing for more "contemporary" music in our services, not just in our Wed. night contemporary service (which I rarely attend). That has always bugged me, even me coming from a trumpet player! (an instrument that stereotypically brings out the ego and brashness in a player)
One thing that she is wanting to do is put a baby grand piano down front next to, or (Heaven forbid) in place of our baptismal font. My wife and I have argued against her in many ways, but one has to do with your Quote today. She does not believe that putting a piano down there for special music would be any kind of indicator of a "show." I disagree, again, as big-headed trumpet player. Our place, as musicians, is in the balcony where we belong, playing appropriate music, bringing the Word in music, not showing off our prowess!
Sigh...
BTW, I love playing the 500 year old hymns. LSB has an instrumental edition with instrumental parts, especially with descant. I'm really enjoying getting into that.
There is a right way to make your joyful music without doing it for display or show.
Thanks for the Quote!!
Allen
I'd ask if, when a person is singing at the front, you think, "Wow, he or she's really good!"
ReplyDeleteOne isn't thinking about Christ crucified at that point.
Frequently, people tell me that they enjoy hearing me sing the liturgy. It has often made me feel as though I shouldn't participate, but I can't not participate. I thank them for their kind words and then try to get over it.
ReplyDeleteAllen & Dan,
ReplyDeleteAmen!
Mike B.,
Don't hesitate to sing out because you have a beautiful voice. That's using the gift the way God intended!
Pr. Weedon,
ReplyDeleteIt's a hang up remembering the old days when the response was the reason. My issue, I know, and I try very hard to be gracious, even while my skin crawls.