hallmarks of a healthy music ministry

I can’t believe that only three years have passed since I arrived at Park Avenue Christian Church. In what seems like a short time, we have seen significant change and growth in the music ministry. We now have three established choirs, a recorder consort and a concert series that has welcomed thousands from our community. Above all, there is an amazing energy and spirit among the musicians who serve from week to week and I hear and feel a similar buzz among worshipers in the pews. What we sing and how we sing are more and more connected and there is a Spirit-rhythm, a joy and exuberance that is evident in our corporate praise and worship. As I’ve stepped back to listen and observe over the past weeks, I have noticed some recurrent themes and patterns that I think indicate health and vitality. I recently shared them with the congregation in hopes that we will continue to live into them in the months and years to come.

1. Warmth – recent visitors to the church have said that they felt embraced by the music that they heard, literally wrapped in the sound. I don’t think that’s just about the volume of the singing but has something to say about the loving intention that is a conscious part of our choirs’ and congregation’s musical leadership. I can think of nothing better than a hug and perhaps the next best thing would be a musical one.

2. Authentic Diversity – I see and hear so many individuals making music out of their sense of call and giftedness, from children to adults. We are a congregation of diverse styles, languages, cultures, perspectives, and abilities, and I am heartened that our music ministry welcomes everyone! And music from Africa, Latin America, the great works of Western Classical music, Gospel, Jazz, and new compositions all give voice to our heartfelt prayer and praise each week.

3. Growth – I see individuals growing, not just in their ability to sing or internalize musical concepts but in their capacity to communicate and to lead others. Good music-making is not just about being note-perfect. We are called to strive for beauty and excellence but our deepest goal is communication through sound. In worship, we hope to set a tone that invites others into an ecstatic or transcendent experience of the Divine and that takes skill and practice.

4. Respect and Love – I see new participants warmly embraced and welcomed deeply. I see a new type of community evolving: one that values vulnerability and openness, honesty and directness. I see our professional choir assistants affirming our Youth Chorale; I see our Gospel Choir applauding the Sanctuary Choir; I see the Sanctuary Choir grooving with the Gospel Choir. This sort of shared respect and appreciation is rare and holy, and not practiced enough in many faith communities.

We are just beginning our work together and (to quote Pastor Jackson) I stand on tiptoe in anticipation of all that God can and will continue to do as we offer ourselves in humble service!