Missional Musician

Immanuel/Sanctuary Music Notes January 2011

2011-01-22T00:25:00.001-05:00

The following is the bi-monthly newsletter (January addition) I send out to current, former and future musicians and friends of the Immanuel Contemporary Music Ministry.

Happy 2011 Everyone!

If you know me at all, you know I am a goal setter. I love brainstorming, dreaming and goal setting! Now... putting plans into motion...I have a goal to get better at that! :)

At any rate, I have some 2011 goals for myself as the director of contemporary music that I would love to share with you:

-Make it a priority to begin every practice/rehearsal/service we have with prayer.

- Continue meeting once a month with the Sanctuary Music leaders to plan for worship, pray, learn and grow with each other.

-Begin meeting once a month with the Immanuel Music leaders to plan for worship, pray, learn and grow with each other.

- Plan and post worship music selections (at least) 2 weeks in advance

- Organize my office...

-Organize music files on planning center

-Write some more music for worship

-Encourage more people to join our choirs/band/groups

-Update my music blog more often (hey! I think I have 2 followers!)

-Inventory our sound equipment

-Work on organizing, growing and enpowering our sound teams at both Immanuel and Sanctuary

I also have some general hopes/goals for 2011 for our music ministry. Disclaimer: the following thoughts lean more towards the brainstorming/hopes side of goals, but here you go anyway:

-That lives will continue to be touched and changed by the messages of God's unending Love that we sing about in our music.

-Community Hymn Sing at Immanuel the first Sunday in May

-Summer concert series at Immanuel ( one concert each month)

-Summer Wednesday night Praise and Prayer (a short service of music, scripture and prayer)

-"Hymn of the Month For Kids" recording

-Sanctuary Christmas CD recording

-The numbers in our groups/choirs/bands increase
-Starting a bible study on Worship/Worship leading

Can you help me with something in 2011?

Will you keep me accountable to my personal goals as music director- I could use your help. :)
Will you keep me up to date with any concerns or dreams or hopes you might have for our music ministry- I'd love to talk, please don't hesitate!

Oh and one more thing...

Will you prayerfully consider the people in your lives, and consider inviting (at least) one to church? We have something really unique and special going on with our music at Immanuel/Sanctuary, it is heartfelt, and real, and us. God has called us to use this wonderful music to share His good news with those that don't know it. hey- we as musicians have it 'easy', we can just, say "Come here me play/sing!

And finally, and most importantly.

Will you get to know our Jesus with me in 2011?. Your relationship with the Jesus we sing about every Sunday is of utmost importance to me, and I, or one of our pastors, or your fellow congregants, or your band or choir mates, would love to walk along side of you as you journey to know him better. For me this year, it means picking up the bible...and committing to read it in a 3 year plan. for you it means.... fill in the blank, but I pray that we can all grow in relationship with our Lord and Savior more and more each day.

God Will bless you and keep you, shine His face upon you, and give you Peace in 2011!

Your fellow servant,
Ellen

May God's Peace be with you in the New Year!

2010-12-31T14:45:00.000-05:00

On this the 7th day of Christmas, I wanted to share with you a beautiful arrangement of "I heard the Bells on Christmas Day" by folk musician John Gorka. I heard this arrangement many years ago on a Windham Hill compilation Christmas album, and have looked forward to hearing it every Christmas since. I think the melody, harmonies and delivery really speak the words of the song Enjoy!

Hail the Sun of Righteousness!

2010-12-27T00:02:00.000-05:00

Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace!

Hail the Sun of Righteousness!

Light and life to all he brings,

risen with healing in his wings.

Mild he lays his glory by,

born that we no more may die,

born to raise us from the earth,

born to give us second birth.

Hark! the herald angels sing,

"Glory to the new born King!"

I was reading up on these lovely words from the well loved Christmas Hymn by Charles Wesley, and found an interesting persepective on this imagry from a sermon given by a Rev Peter Edwards of the Malvern Priory, United Kingdom. Click here to go to the Priory's website, read and enjoy.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-28T20:46:00.002-05:00

I can't help but being so thankful, on a daily basis, for the wonderful musicians that I have the opportunity to work with at Immanuel and Sanctuary! What a blessing it is to our congregation to have such a faithful, dedicated, and talented group of volunteers. You are all, so appreciated. Thank You, Thank You!

Here are a few great pics from just today, of one of our bands at Santuary- The 4D's. They have now added a keyboard player, who's name begins with M, so I suppose they are now the 4 D's and an M! Credit for the photos goes to another of our volunteers musicians/sound guys- Jake Burgy

small

2010-11-13T00:38:00.000-05:00

Recently I drove by what seems to be the smallest church I have ever seen in the area. (please note when you view the Google map that the church is the very tiny white square, not the big buildings, which are actually townhouses, along side of it)

View Larger Map
A tiny wooden chapel that looks about the size of my kitchen, I smiled as I read the message on the sign out front- Southern Gospel Concert- Free! All are welcome. Aww how nice, I thought, as small as they are still trying, reaching out, opening their doors. I imagined 'the board' of all 90 somethings, sitting around the meeting table discussing how they could reach out to the community, and coming to the conclusion that the Southern Gospel concert was the best route! Praise God for churches like them!

As I come to the home stretch of my first semester back to college in some 18 years or so, I have been becoming more and more aware of how small I am. One of the first reminders came when I had my first organ group lesson. Now, I came to college fully aware that an organist I am not. I mean I can make do, but I am surely what I (and my organ teacher) would consider a beginner on the instrument. But still, I have been playing, and filling in here and there for years so surely I could play as well as at least some of the students half my age. uh...no. As each student got up to play, each one better then the next, I sank deeper into the pew i was sitting in. Thankfully I was spared, when my teacher didn't call my name to play in front of the group. Phew- did i dodge that one!

I wasn't so lucky at my voice group lesson just a couple weeks back. A case of stage fright like I have never experienced got the best of me, at this, very friendly, very laid back gathering. Again I was in awe of the talent and confidence in this group of college students, but as the evening of amazing voices wore on, I felt like I wanted to shrink into the background, or better yet just quietly sneak out of the room. When it was finally my turn to get up to sing, I did my best, never once looking up from my book, kind of like a toddler covering his eyes ("you can't see me, you can't see me"!)

Yah, I've been feeling kinda small lately, but even though I might be feeling like that, I know something that is much more important. I may be small, but I am not insignificant. There will always be someone far more talented then me, but God uses the talents I have, and expects that I use these talents that He has given to me- for His glory. I am so blessed to be among the many musically talented people at my work at Immanuel and now in addition, the college students and amazing professors at Concordia. I am blessed because no matter where we 'stack up' talent wise our lives are just so darn significant to the plan that God has for this world!

Back to the. smallest. church. ever. I decided to check them out online... maybe not all 90 somethings around 'that board' table (although that wouldn't be a bad thing). They have a new Youth director, a young pastor and family, women's and youth ministries, fall festival, and on and on. What do ya know? Maybe not so small after all!

Immanuel/Sanctuary Music News Sept 2010

2010-09-23T00:31:00.000-04:00

The following is the September addition of the bi-monthly "e-newsletter" that I send out to current, former, and prospective music volunteers and music friends of Immanuel and Sanctuary1010.

Immanuel/Sanctuary Music News September 2010

Hello!
I can't believe tomorrow is the first day of Fall! This season is always a reminder to me of back-to-school, and learning, and new pencils, and the smell of crayons, and fresh notebooks, and clean slates!

As many of you know, this year's back to school time, has special significance for me, as I have decided to begin the process of finishing my bachelors degree after a nearly 20 year absence.

I wanted to share with you, and fill you in with a little background of why this is so meaningful to me.

I began college the first time, at Concordia, in Seward Ne, as a kinda naive, pretty immature, 17 year old. I entered the Lutheran music education program, and sailed through all of my music classes. I couldn't wait to get to those classes, and would stay up all night working on compositions, and other music homework. I loved it, and my professors were encouraging and supportive.

The rest of college for me, was unfortunately, much more difficult. My college years were a very dark time for me personally. The choices I made did not reflect the person I wanted to be. Ultimately the choices I made, and the things I did, resulted in me not being able to finish the degree I had dreamed about.

Today I thank God that he pulled me out of the dangerous depths that I found myself in during college when I was young. I thank God for His beautiful grace and loving forgiveness. I thank God, that I have been able to find work serving the church with music, almost from the day I left college. I thank God that he blessed me with two beautiful children that changed my life. And I thank God that he has led me to this time and place, and these circumstances, that will allow to me to finally finish the college degree I never stopped dreaming about.
I am now taking classes as a junior in college at Concordia University, Chicago (its actually in River Forest) I am a Music Major, and am also seeking a Director of Parish Music certificate. I should be able to graduate in about 3 years!

In the four short weeks since I began college (again), I have already learned so much, and I am so excited about sharing it all with you! (just tell me to be quiet if I talk to much about it!) It is my prayer that this education will give me more tools, and more knowledge, and more skills to help me to be the best servant of God that I can be. It is also my prayer that I will be able to use what I learn to be better at what I do as Music Director at Immanuel/Sanctuary. I hope to be more of a help to all of you, and more of a resource for the congregation.

I am so excited about what the future holds for us and the music program at Immanuel/Sanctuary! Great things are happening every week! The talent and dedication we have in all of you, is unprecedented in churches our size. Every Sunday, peoples' lives are being changed as they hear the message of God's love in the songs that we sing and play. No education is needed to know that you all, and the time that you give, are the ones that are making these great things happen.
As always, and I don't tell you enough... Thank You! Thank You for your support towards me. Most of all, thank you all for all the things I learn from you on a weekly basis, you have been my 'college' for my last 13 years working here at Immanuel! I pray that we can all keep learning from each other! Please feel free to call me at any time with any questions or anything at all, and please keep sharing all your knowledge with me! :)

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OTHER STUFF-
I'd love to hear some live music with you!
Nathan Fisher has started a new band called Indeed and has quite a few shows lined up. There is one THIS Friday Oct 1 at 9pm

here:
McBrody's Bar and Grill
73 W. Jefferson St.
Joliet IL, 60432
P:815-726-8960

You can check out Indeed here at their Myspace Page

let me know if you want to car pool! Also let me know if you hear of another show (secular, sacred,classical, professional, open mic) whatever! that you would like to get a group together for.
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I hope you are all enjoying this wonderful fall weather!
Ellen

Beyond A Mighty Fortress

2010-09-09T01:31:00.000-04:00

Here is a neat little resource for those of you interested in learning a little bit more about the musical heritage of the Lutheran Church from the 16th-20th century! (I'm only a week and half in to school, just wait!)
Thrivent Financial put this out- here is a little description from their website- be sure to notice the last sentence.

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans has created "Celebrating the Musical Heritage of the Lutheran Church"- a compilation of five CDs, an interactive CD-ROM and a 50-page booklet highlighting the music of Lutherans from the 16th through the 20th centuries. The collection was provided by Thrivent Financial to Lutheran congregations and select institutions. It is no longer available.

Yeh, you heard it, the resource is no longer available but you can access much of its information including audio clips of muisc and interviews, organized in an easy to use fashion, at the website right here:

Musical Heritage Of the Lutheran Church

patting my stomach while rubbing my head

2010-09-05T22:55:00.000-04:00

So, yesterday was the last day, of the first week of of my return to college after an eighteen year absence. Phew!. The first day is almost a blur, as this almost (but not quite) 40, woman, walked around campus, with everything I could possibly need pouring out of my way too heavy backpack. With my schedule in my pocket, and my classroom number locations printed carefully on the palm of my hand, where I could not lose them, I found each of my classes, AND managed to be on time!

By mid-week I felt like an old pro, well for sure old. One of my home work assignments was to sing the do-re-mi song from Sound of Music (my favorite musical) using Solfege. (solfege is the use of syllables-do, re, mi, etc, in the sight singing process). Okay, okay, it goes kinda like this... sing it with me now

Do re mi do mi do mi

re mi fa fa mi re fa

mi fa sol mi sol mi sol

fa sol la la sol fa la

so do re mi fa so la

la re mi fa sol la ti

ti mi fa so la ti do

do ti la fa ti so do!

Yeah, that took me awhile to figure out, now I can't sing a song without thinking of it in solfege!

In the very same class the professor sent us home with the task of practicing conducting with our right hand, while, tapping eighth notes with our left hand, while sight reading... while using that darn solfege. All I can say is, there is a reason college students usually are in the 18-23 range! Younger, quicker minds...

Slow mind or not, I am excited about the school year ahead, excited about using what I learn right away in my work at church, excited about being a good example to my teenage boys. I love to learn, and there is so much out there to learn. Here we go!

Majesty

2010-06-25T19:49:00.002-04:00

Take a look at this incredible footage that was captured of a lightning strike in Chicago recently. The image is slowed down 2 times to allow us to really see the beauty. The music in the video accompanies the majesty perfectly.

PS.the music is by Sufjan Stevens, from his album, Illinois. I just referred to Sufjan in a post, two Fridays ago right here

Great is thy Faithfulness

2010-06-23T14:28:00.000-04:00

Thomas Obadiah Chisolm (1866-1960) lived most of his life with illnesses that left him bed-ridden. When he wasn't ill he would work many odd jobs, just to make ends meet. At the age of 27 he found faith, and began writing poems expressing his faith. One of those poems- Great is Thy Faithfulness, expressed his belief that God was faithful in his life even in the darkest times.

Sometimes it takes a re-listen of a hymn to remember its strength. Take a listen to this re-arrangement of this familiar hymn . Fernando Ortega's tender rendition brings about the lyrics, even more than the original. melody. Enjoy.

I Love Hymns

2010-06-15T18:52:00.001-04:00

Anyone who knows me, knows that I LOVE HYMNS. The depth of the lyrics, the melodies that seems to match the tone of every verse, the sound of people singing them with gusto. A well written hymn is a thing of beauty. Note I said- a well written hymn. Not all are so. There are plenty that I personally don't care for. And that's okay. That said...
Recently a guest pastor at our church chose a hymn I was not too familiar with. I silently moaned and groaned about its dirge like qualities while I practiced it for the Sat night service. Then during the service a funny thing happened, we sang the hymn, and during it my heart began to soften. The congregation joined in easily, the reverent quality of the melody came through (no more 'dirgyness'!). During the sermon, pastor mentioned the hymn and why he chose it and how it fit the gospel lesson for the day, and my heart softened even more. Although I won't list the hymn in my super favorite hymn list, I will now, never forget it, its strong Easter message, and powerful Easter melody.

Christ Jesus lay in death’s strong bands,
For our offenses given;
But now at God’s right hand He stands,
And brings us life from Heaven.
Wherefore let us joyful be,
And sing to God right thankfully
Loud songs of Alleluia! Alleluia!
No son of man could conquer Death,
Such mischief sin had wrought us,
For innocence dwelt not on earth,
And therefore Death had brought us
Into thralldom from of old
And ever grew more strong and bold
And kept us in his bondage. Alleluia!

But Jesus Christ, God’s only Son,
To our low state descended,
The cause of Death He has undone,
His power forever ended,
Ruined all his right and claim
And left him nothing but the name,
His sting is lost forever. Alleluia!

Words: Martin Luther

I Love Hymns (part 2)

2010-06-15T18:51:00.002-04:00

My real purpose in posting about hymns today, was so I could share this version of "Be Thou My Vision". How I love a hymn re-do. Especially one that is faithful to the text, and tone of the original.

Here is one of my favorites by Dave Bazan who happens to be playing at a Green Music Fest in chicago on Sun June 27

Friday Night Lights!

2010-06-11T19:04:00.002-04:00

Tonight I get to watch one of my favorite television shows. Friday Night Lights is probably the best TV show you are probably not currently watching. If you haven't watched it...put the past seasons in your Netflix queue! Now!

I was initially attracted to the show by the music throughout, much of which is composed by a band out of Texas- Explosions in the Sky. I liked the music so much I went out and bought me some tickets to see them in concert.

The excellent music in Friday Night Lights begins with the opening credits. The theme song is written by a Snuffy Walden, long time television composer, with numerous compilations put out by Windham Hill. In this short piece, Mr. Snuffy, seems to be able to illicit emotions ranging from melancholy to thoughtfulness to joy...in 45 seconds! Oh to be able to write like that!

Just like many other current shows, Friday Night Lights also employs the use of a variety of other music to create the soundtracks on a week to week basis. A couple weeks ago I was surprised to hear another favorite artist of mine Sufjan Stevens used in the closing scenes. Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing-
I love this very raw, live version of it, listen to the crowd singing along!

Check out Friday Night Lights tonight!

Immanuel/Sanctuary Music News June 2010

2010-06-09T16:29:00.001-04:00

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Romans 12:1

Happy Summer Everyone! I love summer for its built in slower pace, and at the same time it’s overwhelming possibilities! Go outside! Enjoy!

More than ever I am in awe of, and so thankful for of all those that serve currently, in the past, or are still considering serving in our music ministry at Immanuel/Sanctuary I thank you! I thank you for being dedicated to creating and playing music for our worship services that is heart felt, authentic, honest, creative, God focused and Christ Centered. Beautiful Worship!

Now- may I challenge you? How can we, in this Summer of Mission, not only celebrate worship inside, but live our worship outside? And how, more specifically, can we do this in a Music context? How can Immanuel and Sanctuary have more of a missional music ministry?

A Music Filled Summer of Mission!!

Here are some musical, missional ideas to try this summer!
Have more ideas? Please share them here! Once you've tried some of these ideas, come back and share them too!

Invite a group of friends to a Concert in the Park

Invite some fellow musician friends over to your house for a musical “jam session”

Invite a neighbor child to Immanuel’s Sing Praise! Choir Camp Aug 2-6th

Go listen to, and show support for local musicians playing at a local venue

Create and record a cd of original songs to give out to people

Volunteer for Immanuel’s Tuesday Night Concert Information Booth

Give music lessons to a friend

Invite a friend to join the choir with you (hint: our Praise Choir continues to meet throughout the summer)

Start a Band, or vocal trio, or string quartet … book some gigs!

Go to the piano recital of a friend

Sponsor a concert at Immanuel

Host a bbQ at your house for you neighbors- play some really great music!

Go meet a friend at a local festival- enjoy the music (and food) together

Help Record original music to share on our websites

Invite a musician friend to join one of our musical groups at Immanuel or Sanctuary

Go to a parade- cheer for the marching bands

Share Psalms, hymns and Spiritual Songs

Now here is the thing- these are now just ideas, you have ideas too I’m sure. The key is now to make them more than ideas… go for them! As much as I would like to help with them all, I can’t. So if you are interested in something- go for it! :)

Upcoming stuff

Outdoor concerts- free!

From Fishel Park to Millennium Park to every festival in between, there is a whole bunch of awesome free music going on this summer. Wanna go? Let me know!

Sound Workshop (Musician help needed!) Saturday August 21 at 10am. We will be working to set up, label, and semi-standardize our soundboard set up- Dustin Griesmann will be helping out with this. We will go through a standard band set up and sound check for both Immanuel 10:00 and Sanctuary. I will need a full band- bass, electric, acoustic, keys, drums, 3 vocalists at this workshop. Please let me know if you would be available to help out with this. The Immanuel set up will be done first that day, so I would also like the Praise Choir there at 10:30am.

More help needed- We are in need of musicians at both Immanuel and Sanctuary. Do you have any friends who might be interested? What about yourself? Let me know. We are currently praying for additional Bass players, drummers, rhythm guitar players and keyboardist. Additional instruments are of course always welcome too…harmonica, cello, upright bass, accordion, fiddle, mandolin etc. Please pray about these needs.

All Musician Picnic- Lets. Get. Together. Would someone like to host an Immanuel/Sanctuary picnic this summer? Let me know as soon as possible!

Looking ahead- on Sunday September 5th in the evening, Immanuel will be hosting a Block Party. I would love to have a band playing a family friendly mix of oldies and what not, at this event. Are you interested in being a part of such band? What about organizing such a band? Putting together an evening of music would require some work, and additional practice time, please let me know as soon as possible about your interest!

Blessings on this summer of overwhelming missional opportunities!

Ellen

630.251.0795

Happy Mom's Day!

2010-05-09T21:36:00.000-04:00

One of the things I look forward to every year, is our special tradition of having our children's choir join with their moms and grandmas to sing a special song on Mother's Day. What a wonderful memory this can be for the families, and what a joy it is for the congregation to see and hear the kids and their moms and grandmas lift their voices together.

I usually arrange the song so that the kids sing a verse by themselves, the moms sing a verse by themselves, and then they join together.

Precious!

New music Thursday

2010-05-07T01:01:00.000-04:00

Hammock- Instrumental- sound track for our lives- post rock- love!

Marc Byrd and Andrew Thompson make up this duo. I do believe Marc Byrd wrote the well know contemporay worship song "God of Wonders". It appears they have a new record coming out on May 18, along with a book of photos. Check them out! http://www.hammockmusic.com/

Hammock - Breathturn from David Altobelli on Vimeo.

new Music Thursday!

2010-04-29T13:53:00.000-04:00

So I'm a day late on my New Music Wednesday Post, that I just started last week, it's pretty new, so I'll call it New Music Thursday this week! Disclaimer about the music that I will post on here in the future- it is new to me. it may not be new "on the scene". Just new to me, and posted here for your enjoyment!

So here we go! I'm really enjoying this song Refuge by the folks over at Sojourn Music. Sojourn is a worship community in KY that produce a lot of great music! Check out their music page and blog here

Their latest record is one based on hymns written by Issac Watts ( a famous hymn writer- Joy to the World, When I survey the wondrous Cross- who lived from 1674-1748)

Love this song Refuge(adapted from "Psalm 31, pt 1) Here is a snippet!

I know my days are in Your hands though I draw near to dust.

You are the God in whom I trust.

You are my refuge.

So lift up your voice and sing a loud, and praise Him, all you saints.

How wondrous is His grace?

He is our refuge.

Good Shepherd Sunday

2010-04-26T12:06:00.000-04:00

It was Good Shepherd Sunday this past week. Pastor Prohl gave a very comforting message about how Jesus continues to call our name, hold our hand and tell us how much he loves us. no matter how far we stray.

Pastor Prohl preached at both campuses this Sunday, so that meant as soon as he was done preaching the sermon at 10:00 he drove over to Sanctuary in Woodridge, preached there, drove back to Downers Grove to Immanuel and finished off the day preaching there for the 11:30

Vicar Lohman was at north campus helping out while Pastor Prohl was at Sanctuary. Vicar Lohman had is own running around today though, because I had asked him to sing lead for our worship band, so he was back and forth from the worship leader mic, and then up to the front of the church for the children's message, and then back over to the band area, and then back up front for prayers, and back and forth, back and forth. Fortunately he had a smile on his face the whole time, and was able to catch his breath enough to sing beautifully!

Speaking of singing beautifully , and playing beautifully, the band and choir sounded great today, and just shined on our song selections;

Glory to God Forever- a new one for us by Steve Fee- we like this one!
Take My Life/holiness
Shout to the Lord
Glorious by Paul Baloche- another favorite of ours!
You are Holy/prince of Peace
I am Free

In closing this morning- I would like to dedicate the following video to all the running around and back and forth our Pastor and Vicar did this Good Shepherd Sunday! Enjoy!

Listen...Hear... "new" Music Wednesday

2010-04-21T20:36:00.006-04:00

Thought I'd try something new, and attempt a weekly post of new music I find, and like, that you might like, so take a listen to Josh Garrels

"The Children's Song" - Josh Garrels from Josh Garrels on Vimeo.

Not by might, nor by Power!

2010-04-18T21:25:00.005-04:00

Greetings!

Today at Sanctuary Pastor James preached his STRONG sermon. Wanna know what I mean? Check out the sermon recording at www.ilcdg.org

I really appreciated Pastor James' message that strength in our belief and faith in the resurrected Jesus, comes not from what we can do, but from how the Holy Spirit works within us.

I really enjoyed putting the music together for today, and was looking forward to singing with Pastor James, who has an unusually amazing voice for a Pastor (not to mention a pastor who can lift a lot of weight during a service! see STRONG sermon above)

Rather than our 'typical' opening worship set, we saved the music to be used as a response after the message. We sang Hillsong's Stronger after the message. I thought it fit well with the message, and I was feeling pretty good about everything when, bam! My 10 year old, always reliable, Roland keyboard stopped working. This was particularly eventful because it was a piano only Sunday, so there was no other instruments, and not a harmonica or accordion in sight! My old faithful then proceeded to cut in and out throughout the song, losing power and then gaining power and back and forth. Despite our valiant efforts (Don literally sitting in front of the keyboard holding the power cord in place, the keyboard (and its electrical power) failed us.

We proceeded through the service singing the rest of the songs A Cappella
I know My Redeemer Lives (the beloved Easter hymn)
In Christ Alone by the Getty's
I Will Rise by Chris Tomlin

I'm not sure Pastor James and I sounded all that great without the comfort of the piano behind us but it was a beautiful, beautiful thing hearing the congregation sing despite lack of accompaniment. A beautiful, Spirit led thing!

Check out what other churches sang this past week right here

ok so something is up with my blog

2010-04-05T22:39:00.001-04:00

Has anyone been watching Celebrity Apprentice? Rod Blagojevich, former governor of Illinois is one of the celebrities, well should I say one of the celebrities until he got voted off last week. Why did he get voted off? Basically for not being able to use a computer or a cell phone. He is not technologically gifted. In the least. How did he manage as governor of Illinois not knowing how to send an email, I have no idea, but I feel his pain. Although I know how to send a text message to my kids, I am behind in every other technological gadget. Now my latest issue is with this blog, for some reason it is only showing 1 post, and none of my additional information in the sidebar. So i post this in the hopes it is just a one time thing and everything will go back to normal. If you actually have a reasonable solution that makes sense please let me know!

Thanks!

He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed! Alleluia!

2010-04-04T22:43:00.005-04:00

Beautiful weather on this Beautiful Easter Day!

I had the pleasure of worshiping this morning at the 10:30 service, with a convergence of familiar hymns led by organ, handbells and brass, and upbeat worship songs led by our praise band, choir and children's choir- ps the children's choir absolutely shined! The church was packed with the family of God as we all sang our hearts out this Easter morning.

The songs we sang:

My Redeemer Lives- I know he rescued my soul!
A New Hallelujah- Every son, and every daughter, sing it out sing a New Hallelujah!
Jesus Christ is Risen Today (great arrangement by Cynthia Dobrinski)- Alleluia!
All the Earth Will sing Your Praises- You took, You take our sins away O God!
Jesus Lives the Victory's Won- This shall be my confidence!
The Wonder of Your Cross- He is Not Dead Behold He Lives Forever More!
Now all the Vault of Heaven Resounds- Christ is Triumphed! He is Living! Alleluia!
Amazing Grace/My Chains Are Gone- I've been set Free!
I Know that my Redeemer Lives(classic arrangement by Paul Bunjes)
He Lives Eternally to Save!

Amen!

My Song is Love Unknown

2010-03-11T15:25:00.004-05:00

My song is Love unknown- my Savior’s Love for me. Love to the loveless shown that they might lovely be. Oh who am I, that for my sake my Lord should take frail flesh and die?
Lyrics by Samuel Crossman c. 1624-83

I grew up with the 1941 Lutheran Hymnal we called “the Red Hymnal” (it also came in blue). As someone who loved to sing, I never grew tired of the hymns on those pages. My friends and I would sit together in church and sing loudly , and harmonize, and worship. It wasn’t long before I knew exactly what pages all of my favorite hymns were on! Open now Thy Gates of beauty- hymn #1- On What Has now been Sown hymn # 46 were just some of them.

During those same years of childhood I was introduced to a ‘new’ kind of music as well. We sang it accompanied by acoustic guitars during Sunday school, and vacation Bible School, and Church Camp. I loved it, not more or less then the hymns in our worn out hymnals, just loved it. The intimacy of just voices and guitar, and the more personal and vertical (directed from us to God) lyrics allowed a feeling of being, close to God, in a more personal relationship. Songs like; Sing Hallelujah to the Lord, For Those Tears I Died, Father I Adore You.

Today I have the blessing of being able to worship on an every week basis, at a service using solely hymns and traditional styles of liturgy, a service that is more ‘laid-back’ with a blended contemporary style with songs and more modern styles of liturgy, and a service that embraces the use of the old and new, freely moving from ancient liturgy and hymns to Taize, and modern songs of worship.

Each style of worship moves me in the same way. I leave church knowing that God loves me. My favorite part of worship? hearing about that love, proclaiming what I know about that love, and responding to that love in song. I love hearing the voices sing together as one, knowing our many different backgrounds and stories, but still singing… still singing together. A hymn, a Psalm, a spiritual song- it doesn’t matter as long as it proclaims the truth, and is sung and played in an authentic, honest, and passionate way.

Thank you to the volunteer musicians at Immanuel and Sanctuary for helping to proclaim God’s truth in song every week!

PS- share your favorite church songs and/or hymns from when your were growing up! I would love to hear about them!

So Much Love for Haiti!

2010-02-16T14:20:00.011-05:00

It was a beautiful Valentines Day! Wonderful music and a community gathered together to love and support the people of Haiti!

Thank you to the over 40 volunteers that baked, set up, took down, cleaned up, handed out programs, directed traffic, took video, folded programs, secured donations, passed out posters, and on and on!

Thank you to the musicians who shared their gifts of talent and time, we were so moved and inspired by your music!

Thank you to:

Paris Delane and his percussionist Jason

Mia Koehne and Nathan Fisher

Dave and Chris Gessner

Don, Dave, Danny and Dustin of the 4 D's

I especially want to thank the people who attended the concert, those who purchased tickets and were there in spirit, those who spread the word to neighbors, coworkers and friends, and those that prayed for the success of the concert!

With out you there would have not been an event

Because of you, so far, the Heart for Haiti Benefit has raised over $5000.00 for Haiti Mission Project! Thank you God!

Stay tuned to future posts with updates and more pics!

Heart for Haiti continued...

2010-01-29T02:37:00.003-05:00

Here is a beautifully written blog by a women named Joanna. Joanna is serving in Haiti right now, and is connected to the co-sponsor of our Heart for Haiti concert; Haiti Mission Project

Check it out! : http://lovingonemore.com/

Heart for Haiti

2010-01-28T12:24:00.006-05:00

Heart for Haiti- Benefit Concert

2010-01-26T13:54:00.004-05:00

I hope you will join us for Heart for Haiti- a benefit concert. Here at Immanuel- Feb 14th at 4pm.

Our dear friend Mia will be sharing her love of Haiti through her beautiful music and testimony. Mia, who now lives in Arizona has been a wonderful presence at Immanuel over the years. Helping out with music at the 10:00 service, at Sanctuary, women's retreats, and worship seminars, and sharing her passion for worship and love for Jesus along the way!
http://aboutmidnight.org/About.html

In addition, Paris Delane will be joining us. Paris - a singer-songwriter - and recording artist was born and raised in Chicago, and has since been involved in and toured around the world with a variety of musical groups over the years. Paris has an incredible seven octave vocal range, and an even more incredible passion for the hurting and suffering in our world, including the people of Haiti!
http://www.reverbnation.com/parisdelanestyedyeskye

Along with Mia and Paris will be our friend Nathan Fisher. Nathan, who is now music director at Sanctuary in Manhattan Illinois, helped launch and then continued to serve at our Sanctuary1010 ministry for the last 6 years!

http://www.leadgracefully.com/index.php?p=1_3_About

Rounding out the musical afternoon will be our very own worship band, from Sanctuary- The 4-D's!

I hope you will join us for this benefit concert. All proceeds will go directly to needs in Haiti through our co-sponsor Haiti Mission Project

http://haitimissionproject.org/

Tickets are available in advance in the church office at Immanuel for $10, And will be available at the door for $15

Original at Immanuel

2010-01-15T17:57:00.002-05:00

Ooh I love it when our wonderful musicians at Immanuel and Sanctuary write original music for worship.

Here is one Frank wrote for our series on Psalm 23 that actually made it on to YouTube:

Thank you Frank for sharing your gift of music with us at Immanuel!

On the 4th Day of Christmas...

2009-12-29T00:31:00.010-05:00

What a great Christmas it was! A little (well actually a pretty long) recap!

It began with The Christmas Cantata. Immanuel's first attempt at a cantata with a back up cd accompaniment! Wow! Lot's of work, but wonderful results! Thank you chancel choir, Praise Choir and Joyful Noise! Your hard work really showed and was so appreciated! Will we do one again? Why not join us and see...

Children's Sunday School program came next. Great as usual, and a big thank you to Jennie for writing the program and to Janice for handling the music end of things. Janice really impresses me with her ability to get so many of the kids involved, and to get them sounding so good, with so little time! Great job everyone!

Christmas Eve was of course a whirlwind of awesome worship services! Thank you to the Praise Choir for leading us in singing at the 4:30 service, What a great way to start the afternoon. Special thanks to Kevin and Scott for accompanying Silent Night on guitars ( I think there is no better way to play that song!) A very special thanks to 7th grader, Elyse for sharing her "O Holy Night". So beautiful, and especially beautiful when the Joyful Noise children's choir joined in- I'm not sure there was a dry eye in the house! Thank you Joyful Noise!

After 4:30 service I headed over to Sanctuary, for their 7:30 service. Even now as I recall this time of worship I am getting weepy (in a good way!). The atmosphere created by the sacred space team, and all the volunteers and the musicians,and the worshipers... such a peaceful place to greet our newborn Savior. Thank you to the band who pulled practically 3-adays to preprare. I loved working with you, and look forward to doing it again. Thank you to my choir of two-Charlotte and Anne-you were great! Thank you to the sound guys who put up with us musicians, (well, who put up with me anyway). And a very special thank you to the transportation people. Without you...well. we wouldn't know what to do, you are the best!

I wrapped up my Christmas Eve back at Immanuel at the tail end of the 10:00pm service. Thank you to Dean and the chancel choir members for helping with one of the best traditions of the night... the singing of the carols at the end. For those of you not familiar- come next year- okay, let me give you a little hint... At the very end of the service the chancel choir files down the isles and sings along on carol after carol until the last person is ushered out of the church. Many people just stay in the narthex singing along until the very last song. My favorite!

Since Sunday was only 2 days after Christmas, we continued the Christmas celebration by singing carols during worship this past Sunday the 27th- very nice. Especially nice was the musical additions at the 10:00 service by some of our junior high students. Amanda and Alyssa sang the first verse of The First Noel- Great job girls! Ben and Elyse reprised their "Who Could Imagine a King" from the children's Christmas program. Very lovely once again! Thank you all!

Whew!! A whirlwind! But so worth it, as together we worshiped and together we shared the wonderful message of Christmas!

May the joy of Jesus' birth be with you throughout the year!

Christmas Time is Here!

2009-12-03T15:39:00.003-05:00

Immanuel/Sanctuary Music Notes- Dec (the newsletter for all Immanuel/Sanctuary musicians and friends)

Christmas time is here!

Yes it is! And with it comes plenty of musical opportunities and offerings at Immanuel and Sanctuary. Send me an email if you would like to join in the fun or help out in any way.

Two musical offerings for you:

Peter Mayer concert- at Immanuel- this Sat Dec 5th at 7pm. You can find ticket info here: (www.ilcdg.org) This concert would be a great start to your Christmas season. You won't be disappointed!

Immanuel Choirs Christmas Cantata- Wed Dec 9th at 7pm. This year Immanuel's choirs are joining together to perform a collection of Christmas favorites. We will be doing this 40 minute program in place of our regular Advent service time. This years program has been both fun and challenging for us to prepare, and it would be great to have our fellow musicians out to prepare your hearts for Christmas with us.

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Some Opportunities to serve:

Sanctuary1010 Christmas Choir- I am putting together a choir for Sanctuary's Christmas Eve service. The Sanctuary service this year will be at 8:30pm. We will have practices at 7:30 on the following Monday's Dec 7th, 14th and 21st. If you are planning on attending Sanctuary's Christmas eve service, why not join in the choir? We would love to have you! Pass the word around, invite someone who you know likes to sing, to join you! We need at least 10 people for this choir. Hope you will join us!

Sanctuary Christmas Band-

A few musicians are needed to help round out the band for Christmas eve. Percussion, bass and acoustic guitar. Also my yearly question? Does anyone have a set of vibes or bells you would be willing to transport for the occasion! ;)

Immanuel Praise Choir-

Immanuel's Praise Choir will be preparing a piece to sing at the 4:30 service on Christmas Eve at Immanuel. If you are planning on attending this service, and would like to sing, Why not join us for practice on Thursday Dec 17th at 7pm. All are welcome!

If you are interested in any of the above opportunities to serve,
please send me an email! Thanks!

****

Times to Worship

Have you joined the Advent Conspiracy? We are in a great Advent Series at Immanuel and Sanctuary. check out the worship times and themes:

at Immanuel: www.ilcdg.org

at Sanctuary: www.sanctuary1010.org

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In Closing

This Christmas season I pray that we as musicians serving in the church, are able to play music that is transparent in its message and delivery, and that the life changing message in Jesus and His birth are played and sung so that all can hear!

This Christmas season, I also pray for you all individually, that in this busy time you are able to keep your focus on The Light of the World!

Many of us, even more so during the holidays, find ourselves going through difficult, restless and stressful times. Could we all pray for each other this month? Pray that we can rest in the knowledge that baby Jesus brings everlasting Peace into this un-peaceful world!

Christmas time is here!

Ellen

worship this weekend

2009-11-02T16:55:00.003-05:00

What a whirlwind of worship this weekend!

My dear friend Mia was in town for a special event, and was able to join me in leading music at Immanuel's women's retreat on Friday, and then at Sanctuary on Sunday morning.

Authentic and passionate as always, Mia touched people's hearts with her heartfelt worship of our Heavenly Father. I thank her for being such an important part of this weekend!

One thing I noticed that I haven't really noticed before, is that Mia leads worship, nearly without music in front of her. I am so inspired to do the same, and would like to encourage my fellow worship leaders and musicians to try to memorize their music. Start by memorizing one a month, trust yourself, trust the Holy Spirit to guide you, and Worship!

Music at the Women's Retreat-
Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow ( hymn sung a cappella in F)
Mighty to Save (in F- c vs c c)
ad lib on C - Bb/C - F/C - C (brought in bridge of You are My King during the ad lib)
You are my King- in C
Holy Holy Holy (the hymn -in C- last verse a cappella)
Righteous Desire- ( original song by Mia) http://www.aboutmidnight.org/

closing songs-
An original by Mia called...........I'm not sure of the title of this song, but is absolutely on of my favorites
Amazing Grace/My Chains are Gone

Can i just say- 80 women singing together sounds AWESOME!!! The whole church was filled with the sounds and echoed with Praise!!

music at Sanctuary
Check out the service plan here at planning center online http://www.planningcenteronline.com/plans/827669

Fun!

2009-10-13T00:43:00.001-04:00

Music for Sunday October 11th

2009-10-11T17:33:00.004-04:00

A little recap of the music from Sanctuary1010 this morning.

We are in our 4th week of an 11 week series of Psalm 23. This week: He Restores my Soul

Music choices:

What Wondrous Love is This- (we did this hymn in Dm and added an extended 'worship jam' at the end)

Desert Song- ( we started this song with a drum beat that came out of the previous song- very nice! this is one of those songs that you hear once, and you end up singing the rest of the day! "I will sing praise, I will sing praise, no weapons formed against me shall remain!")

How He Loves (we do more of the David Crowder version of this one, and we do it in C. I really like the version by Kim Walker of Jesus Culture, but sing-ability wise, she goes way to low on the verse for anyone with a normal range to sing along. But her voice can certainly handle it with a cool sound at that. She starts low, so she can 'belt' out the chorus an octave higher, the energy that effect creates is amazing- check out the Jesus Culture arrangement here)

Amazing Grace/My Chains are Gone- (I, alto at best, did this one in D, and it works well for me, hope it worked for the congregation! :) )

Additional Worship Notes- We started the service with a meditative feel, rather than our typical greeting each other/announcement/welcome. I enjoyed the peacefulness of it, and the chance to take time to prayerfully enter the time of worship. Pastor asked me to look for some instrumental music. I did some searches for "christian instrumental" post rock, ambient. I didn't come up with anything really. How would one know if instrumental music was Christian or not anyway. (answer- you wouldn't) Either way, the search was fun, and I came across a couple bands that I had not heard of before, and would like to look into more- Foxhole, Mogwai. But low and behold, I actually came across the closest thing to the christian instrumental post-rock sound I was looking for in a band called Hammock. One of the members is familiar name from the Christian Worship scene- Marc Byrd (God of Wonders) Check out Hammock, with lots of full length samples of their music here Enjoy!

And... I had so much fun playing with our newer drummer Chris and new guitar player Bailey. Excellent musicians. Great time! Thanks guys!

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This post is part of an interesting 'blog carnival' where you can read about other worship/music sets from all around the world. Check it out right here

Such Talent!

2009-10-09T15:35:00.002-04:00

Check out this video of a talented group of young singers from Texas! Wow!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKCVS57j284

The music of my Youth

2009-10-06T16:35:00.008-04:00

Music was an important part of my life growing up. My elementary years were filled with the sounds playing on my parents record player; I memorized most of the lyrics to all the records my folks had of The Beatles, Simon and Garfunkel, The Carpenters, Billy Joel, John Denver and... Barry Manilow!
The music I learned in church, Sunday school, Vacation bible school, and church camp (Camp Luther in Three Lakes, Wisconsin for me), has also remained with me over the years. I always loved any song that we could sing in a round or add harmony or a descant to! Seek Ye First, Sing Hallelujah to the Lord, Blind Man, For these Tears, Father I Adore You, the list goes on. I'd love to hear what music you most remember listening to in your elementary years. Post in the comment section below!

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More than ever, I feel that the church as a whole, has a great opportunity to help give our kids the chance to explore their unique expressions in art and music. Schools are having to phase out their programs and parents don't have the money to pay for lessons. I'm sure each of us has our own stories about how music influenced us as we were growing up. Why couldn't that music influence come from the church?

Here are some great opportunities to help kids get involved in music around Immanuel :

Joyful Noise Children's Choir- for all 2nd-8th graders. we meet on Wednesday's during the school year, at Immanuel from 5:45-6:15. All are welcome anytime during the year!

On Tuesday October 20, at 6pm we will be starting the Jesus is the Rock Youth Band.
This group will meet on Tuesdays from 6pm-7pm.

We are looking for:

Musicians grades 6th-10th (guitar, electric guitar, drum set, bass and keyboards) at least 2 years of music lessons on your instrument will be helpful to being a part of this group.

We also have a wish list of items (new or used) that we could use to get us started:

Wish List

Small electronic keyboard
Full size electronic keyboard/synthesizer
Keyboard stands (2)
Small amplifier
Electric guitar
Portable cd player
Microphone
Microphone stand
Music Stands (3 or 4)
Guitar stands (2 or 3)
Drum equipment (either cymbals and stands for an acoustic kit, or a small electronic set)

***************************************************************************************************

I have started on the Sunday School Hymn of the Month cd volume 2 and am looking for help. This cd will be a compilation of familiar Lutheran hymns that all children should know. Each year, for as many years as we can, we would like to record a new set of hymns, that the children and their families can have, that will allow them to become familiar with these hymns that they may otherwise rarely, or never get the chance to hear.Last year, Dan recorded, I arranged and played, Gina, Kristin, myself and Elyse from Joyful Noise sang on the cd. It was alot of fun to do, and the children have really enjoyed the cd. I would love to get even more people involved this year.

If you would be interested in any aspect of this really neat project, please let me know! The project needs to be completed by December 12th, so obviously time is of the essence, but I know we can do it!
To begin the project, I need arrangers. If you would like and have the ability to create an original arrangement to one (or more) of the hymns for this year (listed below) please choose one and get back to me in the next few days with your choice. (first come first serve) The only stipulations for the arrangement, is that the melody stick fairly close to the original, and that it use the lyrics to at least the 1st verse of the song. You may arrange in any style you would like, and can even add an original chorus or bridge. In interest of time, arrangements should be kept simple (1 or 2 instruments, 1 or 2 voices). We can add more to the recordings at a later date if there is time.

Here are the hymns for the Hymn of the Month Project Volume 2. (let me know if you would like any more info about the hymn- ie hymn #, tune name, or if you would like to have a hymnal to take home)

Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty
For All the Saints
Now Thank We All our God
All Hail the Power of Jesus Name
On My Heart Imprint Your Image
At the Lamb's High Feast We Sing
Holy, Holy, Holy
Now the Light Has Gone Away (Frank's already called this one- thank you frank!)

**Time is running short, if you would like to create a simple arrangement of one of these hymns, let me know as soon as possible.

I am also looking for someone interested in doing a recording of these hymn arrangements.
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Happy Fall everyone!

Inspiration

2009-09-28T19:20:00.004-04:00

I love the videos from the grade school choir at PS 22 in New York City. These kids are an inspiration. As you can see they sing from their hearts, authentically, unashamedly, passionately. Kudos to the director of this group as well, who gives the kids the freedom and direction to learn how to sing like this!

Click here to check out the video

Music for Sunday September 13th

2009-09-13T20:41:00.009-04:00

The King of Love my Shepherd is!

Sunday was the first day of our sermon series on the 23rd Psalm, really looking forward to digging a little bit more into this Psalm. Each week we are trying to find a song to use that uses some of the words or themes from the 23rd Psalm. If you have any suggestions please let me know!

At 10:00- It was also Rally Day (1st day of Sunday School)- LOTS of kids! Yay! I chose music that I thought the kids would enjoy and sing easily.

pre-service
Awesome is the Lord Most High -in E!- brand new song for us, sung by awesome singer Phil, it went well.
Days of Elijah- one of the kids favorites

Call to Worship
Open the Eyes of My Heart
Holy Holy Holy- the hymn. This hymn is part of the hymn of the month program that I have devoloped to help the kids who go to primarily services with more contemporary music, become more familiar with hymn from years past.

offering
Psalm 23 by Stuart Townend- I found this song written in 1996, doing a theme search on http://www.ccli.com/. Very nice, simple, and sweet. Worked perfectly with the theme, and even had a pretty descant written into the song. I think I'll use this one again during this series. Scott and Phil rocked the harmonies!

Closing
My Savior My God- Aaron Shust

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Additional worship notes: I played the organ for the traditional service Sunday, the closing hymn
was one of my favorites, and a sending blessing:

Go my children with my blessing, never alone.

Waking sleeping I am with you; You are my own.

In my love's baptismal river I have made you mine forever,

Go my children, with my blessing- You are my own.

Go my children, sins forgiven, at peace and pure

Here you learned

how much I love you, what i can cure

Here you heard My dear son's story, here you touched Him, saw His glory

Go My Children sins forgiven at peace and pure

Go my children fed and nourished, closer to Me;

Grow in love and love by serving, Joyful and free,
Here my Spirit's power filled you; here His tender comfort stilled you.

Go my children, fed and nourished, Joyful and free.

I the Lord will bless and keep you, and give you peace;

I the Lord will smile upon you and give you peace

I the Lord will be your Father, Savior, Comforter and Brother,

Go My Children I will keep you, and give you peace

text: Jaroslav J Vajda (1983 Concordia Publishing House)

tune: Welsh 18th century

This post is part of the blog carnival at Fred McKinnon's blog. There you can read about the Sunday worship music choices from churches all around the world! Check it out right here

Music for Sunday September 6

2009-09-08T00:09:00.003-04:00

A little bit of this and a little bit of that.

I enjoyed choosing the music for this Sunday's Sanctuary service, mixing and matching styles and decades. I don't like to call it blended, I'd say more of a convergence. And even though I think Pastor J may "disapprove" of my use of a dictionary definition... here we go anyway.

From Merriam-Webster's online dictionary:

Main Entry: con·ver·gence
Pronunciation: \kən-ˈvər-jən(t)s\
Function: noun
Date: 1713
1 : the act of converging and especially moving toward union or uniformity; especially : coordinated movement of the two eyes so that the image of a single point is formed on corresponding retinal areas2 : the state or property of being convergent 3 : independent development of similar characters (as of bodily structure of unrelated organisms or cultural traits) often associated with similarity of habits or environment4 : the merging of distinct technologies, industries, or devices into a unified whole

So the songs for Sunday at Sanctuary

Nothing Can Trouble : Taize piece- sang through 2x, read a Psalm verse, sang, Psalm and so on. By the end of the Psalm, the congregation was singing accapella with me off mic. Beautiful!

You are My all in all: (key of F into G) The first time I have used this at Sanctuary in our 6 years! Of course everyone sang their hearts out, on this old favorite.

Blessed Be Your Name: We use this song quite a bit (too much) so I went from the final chorus of You are My all in All right into the prechorus of Blessed Be Your Name....'every blessing you pour out'. We didn't even sing the verses this week. I also took a chance, and during the bridge... 'you give and take away' I asked the ladies to sing the first time by themselves, and then the second time asked the guys, and then the 3rd time asked them to sing it together. I'm not sure if it sounded corny, me asking them to that, but the musical and community singing effect really worked!

It is Well (the hymn) simple piano arrangement, simple vocals.
How he Loves (John Mark McMillan) this was the second week we have used this great song, we use David Crowder's arrangement. Once you catch on to the creatively written verses, you can't really get this one out of your head.

Be the Center (or is it Centre?) Okay this song is written in 4/4, but I accidentally slipped into 3/4 when I introduced in, and just stuck with it. It works, pretty much. Has anyone else who has used that song done that? accidentally, uh on purpose?

Additional notes about the service: The theme was, keeping Jesus at the Center, and the Creating Sacred Space team ( I just made up a name for the ever faithful art team) put the communion table in the very center of the worship space., behind, infront and along side of all those gathered. Nice!

Overall Great Sunday of awesome singing by the congregation! Old songs new songs, hard songs repetitive songs, it didn't matter. Beautiful!

Check out more beautiful Sunday morning worship sets from all around the world at Fred McKinnon's worship set blog right HERE

New Music for you

2009-08-24T16:26:00.004-04:00

I like collecting and listening to hymn compilation projects, from Johnny Cash to Jars of Clay, I love new arrangements of old hymns! A dream of mine is to create a recording of hymns of my own...

Jadon Lavik's Roots Run Deep is a collection of hymns, just the way I like them. Simple instrumentation, not over-produced, easy to listen to and sing along with. If you have listened to Fernando Ortega's hymn arrangements you will recognize some similarities in the simple style, and you'll even hear Fernando singing on one of the tracks

Check it out!

Enjoy!

PS anyone want to do a hymn project with me?

Time's a wastin'

2009-08-17T10:44:00.003-04:00

Last weekend I celebrated with my oldest son, Nick, as he turned 16! This Wednesday, my boys, Nick and Zach, have their first day back at school, and it is my first day as a mom of two high school students! Eeeks!

The older they get, I feel the window of time I have to teach them "all there is to know", and "every secret to life", is narrowing. Much to their dismay nearly everything that happens, good, bad or almost, I turn into an opportunity for a teaching moment by mom. More often than not, they poke fun at me for my little life lessons, but I think they're listening...most of the time!

This sense of urgency, is also present in my walk of faith, and service. Every night, right before I go to sleep, and as soon as I wake up in the morning, I pray that God lead me to be the person He wants me to me, and show me how he wants me to serve.

A couple of years ago, after my Dad returned from a trip to India, he called the feeling he had of wanting to know how to serve in some way, as a "holy impatience". I like that... I think God wants us to have a sense of urgency for the people who still have yet to hear about the beauty of His love and grace. God wants us to have a sense of urgency for the people who are lonely and hurting, tired or broken.

For me, having a "holy impatience" means that I have the desire to know what my purpose is, the desire to know how God wants me to use my gifts to his glory, the desire to stop sitting around thinking, and talking about doing, but actually doing it!

May God lead you to be the person He wants you to be, and show you how He wants you to serve.

Peter Mayer at Sanctuary

2009-08-14T12:56:00.005-04:00

What a great Sunday we had last week at Sanctuary... Peter Mayer, an excellent singer-songwriter and professional guitar player joined us in leading the music. Sanctuary worship leader Nathan Fisher played along side him and it was great! Peter's music and humbleness fit so well in the service, and made for a worshipful morning. I especially enjoyed the acoustic sound and the amazing warm tone of his voice. Such a gift! Thank you Peter! Come back soon!

Most of the songs Peter shared you can find on his website right here

I really enjoyed:

Still in one piece
Pass it On (an original by Peter, not "...it only takes a spark!")
Mighty this Love

One of the songs he did was, I believe, a new one that he wrote for the National Lutheran Youth Gathering (ELCA) in New Orleans this summer, it was called Changed by Love- great tune! I couldn't find it on his website though...hopefully soon!

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Additional stuff about Sunday

This morning we also showed a great video called Free Hugs, if you haven't seen it, check it out here
Our talented video technician Niki then took still images of the Free Hugs video and had them as backgrounds for the songs later. Nice!

Because we knew it was going to be a full crowd, we moved a station to down in the pit area of the worship space... with lamps, rugs, a prayer journal etc, it ended up being a very nice, peaceful space for prayer for anyone during the worship time. way to go art team!!

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this post is part of a blog carnival where set lists from worship services all around the world are shared. check it out

New Music for you

2009-07-30T21:55:00.004-04:00

Great new worship song I just heard. There's so much worship music out there, it's sometimes hard to sift through them to find songs that allow you to hear the message through the trite lyrics or the over processed sound. This one does it with a simple melody, simple accompaniment and heartfelt lyrics. Check out the song at the bands website, on their media player!

I'd Need a Savior- by Among the Thirsty

How many names can I use to explain the love of my Jesus,
the life that he gave and so many times will I praise you today.
I lift up my life cause you are always the same
and my offering to you I bring

Your name is Jesus, Your name is Jesus
You're the wonderful, Counselor, my Friend.
You're what I hold on to; I know that you brought me through
All the days of loss, to the cross you knew
I'd need a Savior.
I need You Savior.

How many songs can I sing to proclaim your wondrous love an beauty so great?
What would I say if you brought down the rain and everyday
I walk through the pain my heart would still say

To the ends of the earth

2009-07-09T00:54:00.006-04:00

(photo by Mia Koehne)

"Jesus I believe in You, and I would go to the ends of the earth
to the ends of the earth
for you alone are the Son of God
and all the world will see
that You are God
You are God"
To the Ends of the Earth- lyrics by Joel Houston

I love singing those lyrics in church. I sing the words... "I would go to the ends of the earth". Would I? Have I? What are my ends of the earth? Am I willing to get out of my comfort zone?

The beautiful picture above was taken by a my good friend Mia. She took the picture at the installation of Pastor Dan Hudson, which was held in a park shelter in the middle of a great big farm field on the edge of a small but growing town. She writes on her blog about the day, her words are wonderful, and I invite you to read them and enjoy here.

Live at Immanuel!!

2009-07-01T16:35:00.011-04:00

Family Fun Fest Music Stage June 27 2009

Don and the D's- 11am
(I'm pretty sure this is not their official band name...)

Trinity Lisle Guitar Club- 12:30

Mia Koehne of About Midnight -1:30
w/ ( a band that we literally put together about 9.5 minutes before going on stage- they were incredible! All the way from the amazing talents of Dustin, Frank and Nathan to an incredible performance by Jake who has only previously played with the well known band "Rock")

Double booked

2009-07-01T16:14:00.003-04:00

Last week I inadvertently overbooked the church.

Thursday night we managed to squeeze in 4 different band/choir rehearsals in a matter of 2 1/2 hours.

No, there wasn't quite enough music stands, or mics, or snare drums and cymbals, and I probably was not as 'present' as I should be at some of the rehearsals, as I rushed off to the next one. But it was an opportunity for me to really step back and see the beauty of offerings, and the willingness and dedication that God puts in the hearts of His people to serve.

The fruit of these offerings?

Family Fun Fest on Saturday with 3 groups sharing music at our Family Fun Fest outdoor stage
10:00 service and Sanctuary1010 on Sunday morning
Pastor Hudson's Installation on Sunday afternoon

These of course are just events- the true fruit is how the Holy Spirit moved the hearts of those who were able to hear the message of God's unending Love that came through our music!

Thank you musicians for the gifts of your time and talents!

music for Sunday June 28th

2009-06-29T14:21:00.004-04:00

Busy weekend of awesome praising through music!

Sat Family Fun Fest with 3 bands sharing their music

Sun- great music at 10:00 and at Sanctuary1010

Sun afternoon-music at Pastor Hudson's installation

Thank You God for all these opportunities to share the message of Your Love!

Music Set at 10:00

Theme- 2nd commandment (we are in a summer series going through the 10 commandments)
You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God

You You are God- From Gateway Worship (First time for this song for us, and it went very well, the choir seemed to enjoy singing it and picked up on it quickly which is always a good sign that the congregation will like it too- I, alto, was leading this one, so we did it in A which was a good key, I just sang c's rather than low a's on the melody on the verse to keep it from getting to low)

You are Holy/Prince of Peace (I am now really hearing the men sing out on their part on this one. I'd like to find more songs that we can break into parts like this- any ideas?)

Your Name- Paul Baloche (we've been doing this song for quite some time, I haven't been sure that it has been connecting with our band and choir, but today proved me wrong- beautiful!)

Psalm 19/May the Words of My Mouth- Terry Butler-1995 (this is a favorite at Immanuel- if you have never heard it before, check it out, it's a very simple but worshipful song using the text of Psalm 19)

offering- Heaven is My Home- new melody arrangement of the old hymn by me ( one of our guitar players asked that we do this song and dedicate it to a young father who had recently passed away)

Closing - Blessed be Your Name

Notes:
no sound guy today, so we had to go with the unmanned smaller system, which was very limiting and a little frustrating, but all worked out okay. We have two great pre-college sound guys who volunteer week after week, but we need to train more people to fill in. Anyone out there?? we need Yoooou!!

Music at Sanctuary1010

Don's band played at Sanctuary, I got to hear them for the first time at Family Fun Fest on Sat they sounded great! Check out their service plan and song choices here at plannning center

Check out even more Sunday set lists here at FredMcKinnon's blog where 70 or so churches from around the world post each week

Love

2009-06-24T10:24:00.004-04:00

I love this video of a couple, married 62 years! Playin music...

Check it out here

Music for Sunday June 14th

2009-06-14T22:25:00.004-04:00

What a weekend of mixed emotions!

Yesterday (sat), I was honored to be a part of a worship conference that Nathan Fisher, www.leadgracefully.com put on at our church. There was a great turn out of people from the LCMS Northern Illinois District, out to find out more about 'tapping the depths of our liturgical heritage in the midst of a postmodern culture'. What a great day!

Today (Sun) we had to say good by to one of our Pastors. Pastor Dan Hudson has been with us for 6 years and is now headed off to plant a church in Manhattan... Manhattan, Illinois in case you're wondering. He was a huge part of these first six years of our second-site, Sanctuary1010. Thank you for everything Pastor Hudson, and blessings on the journey ahead!

Speaking of Sanctuary1010-

check out the worship flow and music choices for this Sunday at Sanctuary here at planningcenteronline. I'm so amazed at Nathan's abilities to rewrite and rearrange hymns as well as liturgical elements of a worship. Super talented guy! Hopefully he will have some recordings out soon!

Music over at 10:00-

Pre-service-

All to your Glory- this Sunday's worship leader, Phil wrote this great song

Call to Worship-

What the Lord Has Done in Me by Reuben Morgan ( We had two baptisms this morning, and I like using this song on baptism Sunday...we usually do vs1 vs1 chorus before the baptism and then the last 2 verses, chorus and vs1 as the families are going back to their seats. We could play this whole song a cappella the congregation sings out so much. Nice.)

Songs of Praise

You are Worthy of My Praise -in G ( this worked nicely thematically as the theme of the service was following Jesus, here, however is another example of a song that's hard for an alto girl, like me to lead in G, due to the chorus staying on the D note for so long. thanks for taking the reigns on this one Phil!)

Everlasting God - in G ( okay I know this is probably way too low in the verse, capo 3 as 'the directions' say is just too high for me to lead, hanging out on the C and D during the chorus, my voice doesn't have a very good leadership quality up there. Anyway, we'll try it in A next time, the church seems to really like this song)

Offering-

May the words- (another original song, this time by our electric guitar player Frank, who wrote it, dedicated to Pastor H- very nice)

Closing

Jesus All for Jesus by Robin Mark ( a great sending song)

Notes:

Awesome part of the day, was seeing so many members of the jr high and high school youth group come up to the front to join the choir in singing the Songs of Praise in the middle of the service. What a great show of appreciation to Pastor. Also great was hearing the original offerings of music by our musicians. Not everyone is a songwriter, but we are certainly blessed with some great ones here at Immanuel and Sanctuary. Thanks everyone!

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check out worship set lists from around the world here at Fred McKinnon's blog. really interesting stuff!

Music for Sunday June 7th

2009-06-08T13:34:00.004-04:00

Trinity Sunday this past weekend and Pastor Hudson's last Sunday at Sanctuary :(
I was at Sanctuary with a band we pulled together- thanks Joel, Dustin, Mia and Byron! Good times, great sound!

Music at Sanctuary1010

The theme of the service was based on Isaiah 6 "here I am send me" the amazing part was, that text being so perfect as a theme text for Pastor Hudson's last Sunday at Sanctuary, is actually part of the lectionary for the day. We modeled the service after Isaiah 6:1-8, and it was very, very nice

you should check here at planning center for the details of the service!

Songs used:

You are Holy,Lord God Almighty (a chorus I wrote that works well interspersed with scripture, the chorus is also a counter melody to the first line of the hymn "holy, holy, holy" and works well to have a background singer come in on that)

Holy, Holy, Holy (the hymn)

Righteous Desire ( a great new song by my friend Mia Koehne, the people really sang along with this one- her cd with this song on it will be coming out soon, more info can be found at her website on that)

Not to Us- Chris Tomlin in G (this key worked well for us, thanks Joel for making it happen!)

To the Ends of the Earth in G (a favorite of mine, the congregation really sings out on, although I have had mixed reviews on this from other musicians. wondering why? great song for me)

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Music at 10:00
pre
sing to the King

opening
Our God Saves- Paul Baloche -in C (one of the very few 'contemporary' songs that mentions the Trinity.)
Holy Holy holy -in C

after absolution
Holy holy Holy -in C modulating to D (nice arrangement from a book from Break forth/Arlen Salte

offering- Glorify Thy Name (yes, that old one..."father we love you, we worship and adore you, glorify thy name in all the earth" )

communion
How Deep the Father's Love for Us -in E
Here I am to Worship- in E

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check out other worship set lists from around the world here at Fred McKinnon's worship set list blog carnival- good stuff!

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Question- Does anyone know of any other contemporary worship songs or hymns that include mention of the Holy Trinity? time to start writing!

Upcoming Good Suff!

2009-06-02T18:49:00.011-04:00

IMMANUEL/SANCTUARY MUSIC JUNE 2009

Hello! I wanted to update you on a few of the music opportunities happening in and around Immanuel over the next 3 months. Let me know if you would like to be involved in any way. Also, please share with me any other ideas you might have for fellowship and/or outreach!

One thing I want to highlight this month, is the worship conference led by Nathan Fisher on Sat June 13th from 9am-3pm.

This would be a great conference for any of you to attend, especially if you would like to find out more about worship planning and leading in the emerging/postmodern context, as well as finding out a little more about the what/why/how we do what we do at Sanctuary1010.

At the conference there will be a mock Sanctuary worship service, along with a panel discussion. There will also be time for fellowship with other music and church leaders from the area. In the afternoon there will be some breakout sessions, each one highlighting an area of emerging worship planning.

I really encourage you all to join us. Please let me know if you would like me to sign you up, or you can go to Nathan's website, to RSVP to him. the deadline to sign up is June 8th (not June 1st as it says on the website). the sooner the better however, so we can plan accordingly.

Click here for Nathan's website

The registration is $20, but please let me know if this is prohibitive for you, and we will pick up the fee.

If your unable to attend and would prefer to volunteer in some way, there are a couple of opportunities to do so, again, let me know if you would like to help.

Immanuel Family Fun Fest- Saturday June 27th-11am-3pm

I am looking for a band/s, you may be in, or who you may know, who would like to play a set of music at our Family Fun Fest, which is held on the Saturday of Heritage Fest. The music should be fun and family friendly,

Let me know, if you or your band would like to perform that day, (time slots are open at this point!)

Update: One group has signed up! another is thinking about it. we are only missing YOUR group!

We will also need 1 or 2 people to help set up equipment and run sound that day. Let me know if that's you!

Cornerstone Music Festival- June 29th-July 4th

http://www.cornerstonefestival.com/

Once again, I am threatening to attend this christian music festival, for just one day, all day.
If you would like to join me and a few others for a trek to Bushnell, Illinois. Let me know.

Update: if I go, it will be on Wednesday July 1st, let me know of your interest!

Immanuel Vacation Bible School July 13th-17th 9am-1145am

Drop your kids off for fun, and stay to help out with the music. Come one day or all 5, we always love to have all sorts of singers and instrumentalists join us as we lead the kids in praise and worship through out the week. There is a place for you!

Update: we've got a good group started- YAY! but we still could use you!

PS: Do you have or know of kids who would like to attend this fun filled week? Click HERE for more info and a registration form

National Worship Leaders Conference- July 20-23rd Leawood, Kansas

This looks like a great conference, that I would love to go and take you all with me! Free it is not... :( I'm still dreaming about going myself, and if not this year, maybe next. Check out the details here, and let me know of your interest

http://www.nationalworshipleaderconference.com/

update- this is still out of my reach financially, but a great looking conference none the less! Can't make it to this one? come to the LeadGracefully conference for an absolute fraction of the cost. (june 13th 9am-3pm at Immanuel)

Sing Praise Choir Camp- August 3-7th 1-4pm- a choir camp for 3rd -8th graders

Sing Praise Choir Camp is an excellent opportunity for 3rd- 8th graders to meet new friends, grow in their knowledge and abilities in singing, and become more confident and comfortable performing and on stage, all in a comfortable christian atmosphere.

Director Ellen Prohl has been involved in, and leading and teaching children's music for over 20 years and has enjoyed directing contemporary and children's music ministries at Immanuel for the last 12 years.

Last year, Janice McCrimmon and I led the first year of this camp, and it was a great success!

If you know any kids who might like to attend, hand em' a registration form. You can find more info or print off a form Here

Concerts, Concerts, Concerts

With the summer festivals almost upon us, there are numerous places to catch a free show! Let's get together! Shoot me an email, when you find something good, and I will spread the word

Musicians, musicians, musicians

The summer is a great time to invite new musicians into your band/group! Also, If you have an interest in playing or singing in a group this summer, let me know, and I will set up a time to meet with you, see where your skills and gifts are, and get you plugged in. Do you know someone who plays an instrument or sings, and needs a church home? Invite em! 9 out of 10 times they will be honored that you asked and say "yes!"

Praise God for all these awesome opportunities to serve Him!

Looking forward to hearing from you! And thank you to all of you who have already expressed interest in the above!

Music for Sunday May 24th

2009-05-24T22:25:00.007-04:00

Music at 10:00

Ever since we started our contemporary service, nearly 12 years ago, the keyboard player has been the band leader, and has driven the worship music during the services. This has worked out well, but its been nice over the last couple years to dive into more and more guitar driven songs and arrangements. This past Sunday I purposely did not schedule myself on keys, and let this weeks band go, and go they did! They sounded great! I really enjoyed hearing their original sounds that they created, without me banging away at the keys, and directing,..er...controlling the arrangements. Great job Scott, Dan, Frank, Kevin, Gina and choir!

Theme Verse- I John 5:9-17

pre-service

One Way- by Joel Houston ( This was the first time at 10:00 for this song. I like the song, more for the great lyrics, and cool bridge, then anything. It sounded really nice in worship, but no matter how hard we try, this song always ends up sounding like a country song, rather than how Hillsong United sounds...no problem though, lots of people love country! :) )

Call to Worship

Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
You Are Holy Prince of Peace (hey! the guys are really startin to sing their part on this one! Woo hoo!)

After absolution

My Redeemer Lives (love, love, love the way the band sounds on this one)

During the offering

Jesus Loves Me- (yes, Jesus Loves me this I know for the bible tells me so!- the band did a great- hmm... countryish- arrangement of this song- awesome! the whole congregation was singing, and they rarely sing along on songs during the offering. nice.)

Closing-

Lord Reign in Me

Notes- I scheduled myself at the sound board today, and really enjoyed it. Despite my limited knowledge of sound tech stuff, it's fun to be on the other side of everything, and I think its a good idea for all band (and choir members) to try it at some point or another.

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Music at SANCTUARY1010

Don, Danny, Dustin, and Chris (welcome Chris!) a great new drummer, filling in for Dave, led worship at Sanctuary. Thanks guys!

Check out this link to planning center for this Sunday's set list.

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This post is part of a blog carnival at Fred McKinnon's blog, check it out here to take a look at worship set lists from all around the world!

Greater things are still to be done

2009-05-23T22:56:00.002-04:00

So, this years American Idol finale didn't have the finalists singing "Shout to the Lord" or any other of the current top ccli songs, but the winner, Kris Allen, most recently used his musical skill as worship leader at New Life Church in Conway Arkansas, a mega church in the suburbs of Little Rock. This church even has a link, on its website to some kind of voting party held for Kris on finale night, sponsored by someone giving out prizes including HD Tvs, to those who stayed and voted for Kris. Wow, sounds like a good deal!

I hope Kris does well in the music industry, he seems like "the guy next door", which is probably part of the reason he won the whole thing, people were able to connect to him, and relate to him in some way. He is in good company with many other American Idols and finalists, coming from Christian music backgrounds:

Just a few examples:

Chris Daughtry was in a Christian band called Absent Element
Mandisa ('member her?) has recorded 2 gospel albums
Chris Sligh was a worship leader and now has done very well recording and writing music in the Christian music industry
Jordin Sparks was a member of her church's worship team
and here's one I was surprised at- Phil Stacey was a music minister in the US Navy.

Take a look at this video of Kris Allen singing "God of this City" originally sung/written by Blue Tree, a band out of Ireland, and then covered by Chris Tomlin. I've really liked this song, and love the fact that THE American Idol is singing it!

Singing from the heart

2009-05-19T23:47:00.006-04:00

Have you heard of Charice Pempengco, 17 years old, raised by a single mom in the Philippines, never had a voice lesson, vocal prodigy, sang on the Oprah show yesterday, and actually 2 other times before that? Feel what you want about Oprah, or the lyrics to the song, "Note to God" by Diane Warren, but this girl can sing, and not only sing, sing with passion. You can hear it in her voice, and see it in her eyes where tears threatened to pour out at any minute during her performance.

Part of me thinks she was probably a bit caught up in the moment, the swell of the music as the choir joined in with the full orchestra backing, the audience, and Oprah Winfrey herself, standing to their feet, tears falling, hands raising... I know I was, but either way, this girl can sing, sing with passion.

Check the YouTube video of the performance out here

(oops, sorry, it looks like the video was taken down for violating Harpo copyrights... too bad!)

Music for Sunday May 17th

2009-05-17T21:45:00.004-04:00

Today at both campuses we talked about stewardship. Money. A difficult subject sometimes, especially now in these hard economic times. I've struggled with my giving over the years, as a single mom, trying to make ends meet, it never seems that their will be enough at the end of the month. but every year on stewardship Sunday, I am renewed in my my desire to take further steps of faith, and to learn to trust God more.

10:00 music-

Preservice-

Our God Saves- the second week for introducing this song. We have been doing an arrangement pretty close to the Paul Baloche original, but it seems sooo long. otherwise, it went well.

Opening song-

Come Thou Fount/Come Thou King (C) - Our church loves to sing this song. I like it in C, rather than the original D for the vocals. There is nice arrangement at praisecharts.com.

Song after absolution-

Your Grace is Enough- another song our church loves to sing, We typically drop out the instruments on the chorus after a reprise of the pre-chorus, and the people really lift their voices. Awesome

Songs during communion-

You are my All in All- (in F, with modulation to G)
Mighty to Save (in G)

Closing-

Take My Life (Chris Tomlin version)- we had a sololist- great job Kristin- sing this reflectively as the congregation prayed over their commitment cards, and brought them to the front.

Notes: I had the children's choir singing for the last time this season, they sang Love the Lord Your God ( by Linclon Brewster) and Lifesong (by Casting Crowns). They sounded great as usual. Thanks for a great year guys!

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Sanctuary music

Nathan Fisher led music this Sunday. Nice mix of originals, and redone hymns., including my new favorite Nathan Fisher original "You uphold the weak" Can't wait until he does a recording of some sort so I can share.

Check out the service plan, at planning center online right HERE! :)

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Want to read about more set lists from around the world? check out fred mckinnon's blog here

Concert a week- #10 ( I think its 10)

2009-05-16T22:46:00.006-04:00

I've been looking forward to this concert since we picked a date for it, and put it the calendar. This past Friday May 15th at 7:30, in the beautiful setting of Immanuel's original sanctuary, Mia Koehne and Nathan Fisher led us in their original songs, honest testimonies, worship and singing.

I love, and am moved by the songs that pour from the hearts of these two musicians, many of which run through my head throughout the day-

"Jesus you save me from the grave..."

"there is nothing, I can do, to earn your love..."

"...lift your head up child...the Savior cries for you"

"You uphold the weak, help them stand, help them stand..."

Both Mia and Nathan have amazing musical skills, and voices that are pure and simple, yet full of passion. Although their musical styles are different, these musicians are more similar than not. Both have a vast knowledge of scripture, as well as a willingness to be authentic and open about their walks of faith, all of which is reflected wonderfully into their songwriting and performing.

I had the privilege of singing and playing piano with them for many of the songs, and it was such a joy! I really feel comfortable in a supporting role in a group, adding color and harmony as needed. I can't wait to play with them again!

We planned the concert, and advertised it as a "Worship Concert"... not sure if anyone reading the advertisements actually knew what that meant, but that's exactly what it was. The setting was that of an intimate worship space, quiet and reverent, comfortable and peaceful. What an awesome space for a concert, can't believe we've waited so long to have one in there!

Some of the songs were meant for reflection, while during others the audience was encouraged to sing along. I think we were all in awe as we listened to the audience joining together and singing out in that acoustically beautiful space. Praise to the Lord, Nothing but the Blood, I'll Fly Away, Amazing Grace, as well as on songs familiar and not so familiar written by Mia and Nathan.

The concert was certainly a blessing for the 3 of us, I pray that it was for those in attendance as well!

Music for Sunday May 10th

2009-05-10T19:05:00.004-04:00

Music at 10:00

Continuing on with the series- walking in the light of.... This week: Walking in the light of victory, through obedience- I John 5

Preservice-

Our God Saves- (we introduced this for the first time at north campus, it went well. We did it in C, changing the low G's and A's to C's so the melody wouldn't go down too low. In D the chorus lands on a D so much, which is just not a comfortable note for women to sing for extended periods of time. Of course Paul Baloche has a cool guitar part... in D. I'm never as sensitive as I should probably be to cool guitar parts written in a certain key for a reason, because I'm not a guitar player.)

Call to Worship

I am Free
All the Earth will Sing Your Praises - (we did these two songs as a medley in E, reprising the verse and chorus of All the Earth after the confession and absolution time. With the tempo of these songs so similar, the medley worked well)

Anthem-
As for Me and My House- by Morris? Chapman- sung by the children's choir and their mom's and grandmothers- they sounded great! ( Having the kids joined by their mom's and grandmom's for mother's day has been a tradition of ours for about 10 years. Seeing/hearing them sing together is priceless. The song As for me and my House, is a perfect lyrical choice, although the verses get a little low, and may work best as a solo)

Closing-
Jesus All for Jesus ( this song will never get old for me, as the lyrics are so powerful-)

We sang this song as the closing song, after a message today from Pastor Hudson, that was personal, heartfelt, and meaningful to us all. Thank you Pastor Hudson for everything!

Jesus all for Jesus, all I am and have and ever hope to be
All of my ambitions hopes and plans, I surrender all into your hands
For its only in your will that I am free

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Sanctuary1010 music

Dan and Don took the reigns music wise at Sanctuary this Sunday

opening set-
Be Thou my Vision- in D (hymn)
Jesus All for Jesus- In D then going back into the last verse of Be Thou My Vision

after time of confession
Amazing Grace/ My Chains are Gone

Closing set
I Saw the Light
I'll Fly Away
( I printed these songs off in E for the guys, only because I am uber sensitive about songs being in a good range for the girls in the congregation, of course anyone who knows these songs knows that they are traditionally played in G, but the girls would have been squeaking!! Here's hoping Dan and Don didn't go with tradition! :) )

See here for the planning center outline

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This post is part of a blog carnival at Fred McKinnon's blog, click here, to see worship set lists from all around the world!

Music for Sunday May 3rd

2009-05-08T00:32:00.004-04:00

Music at 10:00

Theme- Walking in the Light of Love

Opening worship

Blessed be Your Name- in A

into

Shout to the Lord- in A

after confession and absolution we reprised

Shout to the Lord (chorus only)

Songs during communion:

There is a Redeemer- in D by Keith and Melody Green (one of my very first favorite praise and worship songs, still a favorite)

into

You are my King/Amazing Love - in D

Closer-
Make us one- (a nice ballad type/easy to sing/closer by Twila Paris- especially nice with a kids choir singing along. )

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Music at Sanctuary

I was at Sanctuary this week and had the opportunity to sing with Pastor James AND Mia. Too awesome singers/worship leaders, so easy to work with, it makes it so easy to worship as we lead the congregation. Adding to the worship, were the college kids again singing from their hearts!

As the theme was Walking in the Light of God's Love, we started out with an extended worship set, giving the people the opportunity to experience God's love through the music.

Later on during Face to Face Mia shared a brand new song she wrote based on John 11, and Jesus weeping over Lazarus. umm this song is incredible, and as soon as she can record it, I would like to post it here for your enjoyment... so check back soon!

We then closed with another original by Mia, which I changed at the last minute from Hosanna (brooke fraser) The lyrics to Mia's song " O Lord your Love is all that I desire" really spoke to the congregation after the message of this service.

Please check out the service plan for Sanctuary, our 2nd site campus, from planning center online by clicking here

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I am enjoying posting these set lists, and reading others from around the world at Fred Mckinnon's Blog- check it out here

Music For Sunday April 26th

2009-05-07T23:55:00.003-04:00

Okay I'm going to try to catch up with Sunday music posts- here is 2 weeks ago

Music at 10:00

Theme: Walking in the light of Hope

I played the piano with a full band and praise choir at 10:00 for this week- the PreSchool children sang a couple pieces so the church was wonderfully full.

We ended up reprising many of our Easter pieces- Its still Easter! Lots of fun was had

Pre-service-
You are Holy/Prince of Peace

Opening worship

Alleluia, Alleluia- (fun Easter arrangement of joyful, joyful we adore thee from praisecharts.com
My Redeemer Lives (never get old song by Reuben Morgan)

after confession and absolution

Jesus Paid it all- Kristian Stanfill version(The band loves to sing/play this one, the congregation seems to be catching on well)

During offering
Lord I lift your Name on High (old school I know, but I like to pull out simple, old favorites when we have a lot of kids in worship who might recognize some of the songs)

Closer-
The Wonder of Your Cross

Quick notes- On You are Holy/Prince of Peace and Lord I lift your Name on High, I labeled certain sections men and women singing separately - here's hoping the men feel comfortable singing out by themselves!
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Music at Sanctuary

Thanks Don for you service over at Sanctuary! You are appreciated more than you could know!

Click here for complete service plan for Sanctuary1010, our 2nd campus worship site, from Planning Center online

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interested in other set lists from around the country check out Fred McKinnon's blog here

Day of Rest

2009-05-05T23:57:00.003-04:00

So, its been almost 15 days or so, since I last posted...boy am I behind! Two Sundays worth of set lists, and 3 concerts, I have a lot of work to. Saddest thing is, I just may have lost the 3 people who may be reading this. Come back... please.

My excuse? None really, except a need to rest my brain a bit from work/music stuff

People often talk of being able to "leave work at work". I'm pretty sure this happens less often then people would let on. Years ago I worked at the Dove Ice Cream Factory, simply moving ice cream bars coming down a conveyor belt at an angle, I was the "ice cream bar straightener" the best job I could get as a summer temp. Simple as this job was I would have Laverne and Shirley type nightmares at night when I got home from the 12 hour shifts. A major Snicker's Ice Cream Bar Jam up would be at the center of these "nightmares".

Now, although these nightmares are a thing of the past, I still have a hard time leaving work at work. Being in a creative field such as the one I am in, it's hard to put a schedule to creativity, and I admire those who are able to do this, (if you do this well, please share your tips)! No matter how hard I try, round about 9pm- 12am (the creativity starts to kick in) and of course this is not just Mon- Friday, but Saturday and Sunday too.

The word Sabbath comes from the word Shabbat, which means "to cease", or as I see it... rest the brain. My prayer is that we all, worship leaders, Sunday morning volunteers, Dove Ice Cream Factory workers, can take a look at our busy, busy lives, and find that day of rest, that time to sit and enjoy God's creation, and to hear His voice, a day of rest that God asks us, and wants us to have.

That's what I'm talking about!

2009-04-21T18:12:00.005-04:00

Recently I watched a documentary on HBO that really inspired me- "The Leopards Take Manhattan" is a 35 minute movie following a real life "music man" Diane Downs and her percussion group, made up of 45 students, ages 7-12 called the Louisville Leopards Percussionists.

Diane teaches the group, most of whom don't have any musical experience, how to play awesome jazz pieces.. completely by ear! The results- Amazing!

The coolest part of her teaching method? Once she teaches a part to a few students, she then asks them to go teach it to someone who doesn't know it yet, and so on, and so on. The kids take ownership in the success of the group, and in teaching and caring for each other. hmm

The most touching part of the movie? Seeing the look on the kids faces when they are invited to play for a special concert in New York city... pure joy!

When I think about being a missional musician, or trying to lead a missional music ministry, music opportunities like the one Diane is bringing to these kids, is something I might imagine.

Check this movie out if you can, its playing on HBO Family the 1st week of May. If you don't happen to have that obscure channel, check out these links:

The movie trailer: here

full length videos: here

Music for Sunday April 19th

2009-04-19T21:41:00.008-04:00

The week after Easter- still celebrating! We started a series where we are talking about Walking in the light of, and living as... this week- Walking in the light of forgiveness, how do we live that out?

10:00 worship-

Kristin worship led, with Kevin and Scott on guitar, and our wonderful field worker from Concordia, Stacy on keys. Frank was not there this week... (he is a faithful musician playing 50 weeks out of the year) We missed you Frank :)

Music:

Opening set:
Hope of the Nations by Brian Doerksen- in G
Mighty to Save- in G

confession and absolution

Mighty to Save- Chorus only

communion-
I Know That My Redeemer Lives (hymn) in A using an arrangement I wrote
Alleluia - yes the old Alleluia by Jerry Sinclair- in A

Closer-

In Christ Alone

Notes: Love to use the song Alleluia occasionally, its beautiful, no one has to look at the words, or even know the song, they just sing from their hearts, 2 years old to 103, simple worship

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Sanctuary1010 worship

I was at Sanctuary this week, and enjoyed worship leading with just the piano along with Pastor James. He is so easy to sing with, and I also have the bonus of him being so good at transitioning verbally between songs. It was a great morning of wonderful worship.

We didn't start our worship set until after the sermon, and then just continued it on through Face to Face, and through to the closing song. I really like that set up of the service, and it worked particularly well, because Pastor James started the service in a light hearted manner with a video from Vintage21 church, which was a satirical look at what some people thing Jesus is like, after which we had a 'mixer' of sorts breaking up into groups.

Music-

Mighty to Save- (no bridge) -in F
Same Power- (bridge only- there is actually more to this song, but CCLI only prints the notes to the bridge) in F
I Will Rise- In F

You are My King/Amazing Love- in C
I know That my Redeemer Live- in C ( I used a really nice version of "Jesus shall reign" (same melody) from the RUF hymnbook, and took it about 85 beats /min, very effective for those using hymns in their music rotation)
Jesus Paid it All- in C- Kristian Stanfill version, but adapted to piano only, more reflective but very moving

Notes- Good day- Especially great is the amount of Concordia students, 20% of our regular attendance who drive a good 40 minutes to get here every Sunday. I love, love, love their singing! They know most of the songs, and sing them from their hearts

I really liked the set using Mighty to Save in to Same Power- thank you to someone from the Fred McKinnon's Sunday Set List blog carnival, from whom I got the idea (it might have been Fred himself?)

I felt like that set worked well, and that people were really letting their guard down and doing some spontaneous worship during the instrumental breaks, but I started to think too much rather than let the Spirit move us, and I drew the medley to a close before I probably should have. Its amazing how each Sunday is different like that, and you never really know what to expect, reminding me that it really helps to be extra prepared in order to be able to freely go where God takes us in worship.

Concert a Week- # 5

2009-04-18T22:38:00.004-04:00

Concert # 5 in my concert a week project, included a lovely lunch, so I will start by giving a shout out to a lunch spot called Travelers Cafe, and recommend that if you are in the Westmont area you should check it out. Travelers Cafe, is a friendly, comfortable place that serves up humble breakfast food, sandwiches, soups, salads and some comfort food specials. It also appears that they are a bakery, making among other things, made to order speciality cakes. All the food is homemade, and my tuna on wheat, with a side of delicious cole slaw, was a great accompaniment to the music I came to hear.

Saturday April 11th 11am-1pm Rich and Vicki Ingle entertained us with thier group, Comfort Food... a very fitting title for a group playing at this venue. Rich and Vicki, sang together, Rich on acoustic guitar, and Vicki switching back and forth from acoustic guitar to acoustic bass.

( Acoustic bass... I bought one once, with the idea that I could play in a band somewhere that just happened to need an acoustic bass in their group, along with a bass player who only knew how to play Down on the Corner, Brown Eyed Girl, and Knockin on Heavens Door. After about a day of having the wonderful instrument in my house, I realized I couldn't really afford this dream (the bass), and brought it back to the store, who initially refused to take it back, but that's another story, and all ended well anyway.)

Rich and Vicki unpretentiously sang the stories of our lives through folk songs, their originals and others, and talked to the audience, and made us feel like we are at home in our living room, listening to their music. Good food, good music, and and even a free cd to take home courtesy of Rich and Vicki themselves!

Travelers Cafe appears to have different musicians every Saturday from 11am-1pm, definitely worth a return trip... be sure to call first to be sure.

The hills are alive

2009-04-15T22:50:00.004-04:00

Last Saturday evening I settled down for The Sound of Music... 4 hours long with commercials, on ABC Family channel. From the very first note Maria sings on the top of the hill, the nostalgia kicks in. I know the majority of this musical by heart, and I do not consider myself a repeat movie watcher. In fact, I never quite understand the idea of watching movies over and over again, when you could be watching a new one you haven't seen. But after watching it Saturday night, believe it or not, I looked for it again on TV Sunday night, in its traditional spot, Easter Sunday, but it seemingly was replaced with Charlton Heston's Ten Commandments (which I have never seen, and didn't end up watching, it's no Sound of Music after all!).
Watching The Sound of Music, and singing along with the songs, is a complete joy to me. I'm pretty sure its the familiarity of the thing, kind of like comfort food, in a way. I get the same effect watching The Andy Williams Christmas Special, which my mom picked up from pledging to a PBS fund drive. Thank you mom! I have been listening to Andy Williams sing "Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas" since I was a little girl, sitting with my ear up to the speaker singing along to the record. Just imagine the DVD... Andy Williams and brothers performing my favorite Christmas tunes, on The Andy William's show, with terribly fake sets and backdrops, and saccharine sweetness, and The Osmand brothers, and again, for me, nostalgia, joy, comfort!

What is your comfort TV show/movie/song/record?

PS Anyone know where I can find a "sing-along" Sound of Music?

Music for Sunday April 12th

2009-04-12T22:41:00.007-04:00

He is Risen- He is Risen Indeed - Hallelujah!

I love Easter Sunday, from the sweet smell of lilies pouring out of the church doors, when we open them for the sunrise service, to the organ, trumpets and timpani, accompanying the congregation on the great Easter hymns! What an awesome day!

At North campus- early and middle service were traditional services, supported by the organ, brass, bells and chancel choir, but at the final service at 10:30, the praise band, choir, and children's choir also participated, creating a blended service of sorts. 475 joined us for worship at the 10:30, stretching the seams of the church in the best way possible! Praise God for this!

Pre-service- Handbells- A Jubilant Psalm- wish I remembered composers name- good piece

Processional Hymn- Jesus Christ Is Risen today- excellent arrangement by Cynthia Dobrinski incorporating brass, a creative handbell part, an exuberant organ, and of course the congregation

song- The Wonder of Your Cross
sermon hymn- Jesus Lives the Victory's One
offering song with the kids choir- All the Earth will sing Your praises
song- Alleluia, Alleluia ( a fun arrangement from Praise Charts, based on the tune of Ode to Joy)

Closing Hymn- I Know My Redeemer Lives- (an excellent arrangement for organ/brass/choir and congregation by Paul Bunjes- and an Easter tradition for us here at Immanuel)

Notes- I'm not sure how I feel about a service that is blended instrumentally, as in making use of organ etc as well a praise band. I do know that I feel quite comfortable using hymns and songs from all generations all in one service, but I'm just not sure about switching back and forth from organ to band. That said I thought everything went well, and flowed great this morning!

One thing: I was very excited to do "The Wonder of Your Cross", Pastor had the congregation sit down for the song and then 75% of them just looked and listened, and did not sing along. I think they thought it was a performance piece, which it was not intended to be. Granted, many of the people coming to our Easter services have come to expect traditionally accompanied hymns, and the remaining folks are visitors, quite possibly not familiar with any of our songs anyway.

For me, I loved the service, (despite my tiny disappointment about people not singing very loud on "the Wonder"...thanks Phil for encouraging them to sing out!). I'm still not sure that trying to do all musically at one service is the best way to reach people... Then again, it is Easter Sunday celebration, why not use all the wonderful gifts and musical talents that Immanuel has to offer? What do you think? Your thoughts are welcome

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Music at Sanctuary

Nathan Fisher worship led along with Andy on bass and Byron on drums over at Sanctuary- Thanks guys!

You can find the set list for Sanctuary here at Planning Center

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Would you like to find out what music other churches around the world used for Easter Sunday?
Check out Fred McKinnon's Blog

Concert a Week - #4

2009-04-10T23:38:00.006-04:00

I've always wanted to hear an organ trio, an organ trio is usually made up of an organ player on a Hammond, a drummer and some sort of other instrument (or two) like guitar and/or sax. Living in the Chicago area, the opportunities to attend an organ trio show are pretty unlimited. Unfortunately I have yet to make the effort to get into the city for these unlimited opportunities.

So instead, this week for my concert of the week, On Sunday April 5th at 3pm I settle for The Amelia Piano Trio, playing through the Downers Grove Concert Association's Artists showcase West. Just a short jaunt from my home this was very convenient!

The Trio made up of piano, violin and cello performed
Trio, Andante con moto in C minor by Edvard Grieg
Trio in G major, Op. 1, No 2 by Ludwig van Beethoven
Trio in F minor, Op 54 by Antonin Dvorak

Favorites-
I enjoyed the Grieg piece, particularly because of the tone and blend of the violin and cello accompanying the piano, it was warm and soothing
In Dvorak's defense I had to leave the concert early so I didn't hear any of it to make it a favorite..
But I also enjoyed the Scherzo section of the Beethoven, which reminded me of the melody that goes with the song I sing with my sons which goes kind of like this:

"... Joe had a head like a ping pong ball, Joe had a head like a ping pong ball, Joe had a head like a ping pong ball, ping pong ball,- Joe had a head like a ping pong, ping pong, ping pong, ping pong, ping pong ball, Joe had a head like a ping pong, ping pong, ping pong, ping pong, (and down the scale) ping, ping, ping, ping, ping, ping, ping, ping, (and back up) pong, pong, pong, pong, pong, pong, pong, pong,pong HEY!..."

The melody? The William Tell Overture! (or the theme from The Lone Ranger as you will see here)

Another thing I appreciated it was the ability to seat myself, and seat myself in the less crowded balcony which lended a great view, and sound, but allowed me to relax a bit more and enjoy the music.

Finally, although this concert was a bit pricey, I really enjoyed the hour long pre-concert talk (of which I was 1/2 hour late to) that is standard to all of the Artist Showcase West Concerts Very informative, I think I might become a member to this local Concert series.

Still looking forward to that Organ trio!

A TV show for you

2009-04-07T18:36:00.003-04:00

I've caught a few episodes recently of the 2nd season of "Sunday Best" and the singers and music on this show truly inspire me. "Sunday Best" features aspiring Gospel singers, and is sort of like the gospel version of American Idol, with a lot less drama, and much better singers. The season is also only about 8 weeks long, and its nearly over... but never fear... all the episodes are available online for you to watch (or even just listen to) and enjoy. Check it out here- Sunday Best episodes

Music for Sunday April 5th

2009-04-05T23:12:00.004-04:00

Today, in our final week of a series identifying with the people Jesus meets on the way to cross, we put our selves in the shoes of the Greeks, as outsiders, watching Jesus pass by on his way to Jerusalem from John 12:12-21.

I was scheduled to worship lead at Sanctuary today, and at the last minute (and I mean last minute) I asked my good friend Mia to join me, she said yes. We had a quick rehearsal this morning, and off we went. Spirit led, and heartfelt, worship was awesome. Thank you Mia, I hope we can sing together again soon!

Sanctuary Worship

We began the service with Stephen reading Psalm 115 in Hebrew, which I thought was really powerful

Songs-

a time of confession and absolution and then...
What the Lord has done in Me- in C by Reuben Morgan (this is an old favorite over at north campus, but the first time I've used it at Sanctuary. It went well, and transitioned really nice into the chorus of:
Amazing Love/You are my King- in C

Words of Institution/prayer
How Deep the Father's Love for us- in D
Hosanna- in D by Brooke Fraser (I've only used this one one other time, but the people really sang out, especially on the chorus)

In fact the people really sang out on all the songs today which was a joy! Again thank yous to Mia, who has such an amazing way of engaging the congregation.

To close out the service we showed a video taking us from Palm Sunday through Good Friday, after which we sang an arrangement of O Sacred Head Now Wounded, a hymn that when arranged well can surprisingly translate into any worship setting.
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10:00 service-

Kristin worship led, with some always excellent harmonies from Scott. The band sounded great at practice so I'm sure everything went well today.

Songs-

pre service- You are Holy/Prince of Peace (although this is an older song, I'm bring it back in order to encourage the men to sing out more, since there is a separate part just for them...I can't tell if its working)

processional- Victory Chant (the Sunday School children processed in with palm branches and then sang a couple songs by themselves from the front)

Hosanna/Praise is Rising by Paul Baloche (new favorite of the congregation)

during offering-
All glory Laud and Honor- piano and guitar solo

during communion-
In Christ Alone
What the Lord Has Done in Me

Closing-
We Will Glorify- (I bring this oldy but goody back almost every Palm Sunday. I change the last verse from ...Hallelujah to the King of Kings..., to ... Sing Hosanna to the King of Kings... Traditionally in the Lutheran church, we don't sing "hallelujahs" during Lent. I like the tradition of waiting until Easter Sunday to bring them back in celebration, but I don't really understand where the tradition came from, as I have also been told that since there are 40 days in Lent, each Sunday in Lent is a mini Easter. Oh Well!

Interested in what music other churches are doing? Check out Fred McKinnon's Blog, where over 80 people post there worship sets for the week.

Concert a Week - #3

2009-04-03T00:04:00.007-04:00

This past Saturday I found myself with one day left to find a concert to fulfil the requirements for my self assigned concert a week project. Fortunately, around 8pm that night, my oldest son begged my to take him to Best Buy, so he could buy a very important, item for his even more important, video game console, and I happily took him.

After quickly choosing the needed item, we headed to the check out, where, I looked down and saw a stack of flyers for, what da ya know... a concert... right there at Best Buy...Sun March 29th at 2:30...Jim Peterik. FREE.

The next day, I found myself standing, with about 100 other people, listening to Jim Peterik, founding member of Survivor and Ides of March, and writer of...wait... Eye of the Tiger!

Jim was there promoting his newest recording project, Lifeforce, which I read described as smooth jazz. Listening to it, especially the first song, "Joy", reminded me of the sound of The Peter Mayer Group, who has had some incredible concerts at our church for the last 3 years.

With Jim, was a jazz singer, Lisa McClowry, who I think many in the audience knew, as well as an amazing Flute/sax player, Steve Eiesen ( I love jazz flute), and Jeff Lantz? on keys. Jeff managed to cover the bass part as well as middle rhythm piano, and some great lead parts.

Favorites-

The band did a couple covers of some of Jim's most popular earlier tunes, surprisingly these ended up being my favorites:

-Eye of the Tiger- the song seems almost made for this smooth jazz sound. really!
-Vehicle

PS- The venue
Have you checked out these music stores in the Best Buys? Sooo cute! They are like mini Sam Ashs' or Guitar Centers. The selection is small, and probably expensive, but a great place to go and pick up something quick. ( I bought my other son a capo while I was there). The Best Buy folks squeezed Jim and company into a small section of this store, and we all crowded around for a very up close and personal experience. Good times

New Music for You

2009-03-31T18:37:00.005-04:00

Just ran across this great cd produced by a church called Church of the Beloved, located in Edmonds? WA. It's free to download. Great original sounds here, on the first track, I think it's handbells I hear. Later on, some tracks sound like they were recorded in someones living room. Love this!

Download and thank them for their gift! www.belovedschurch.org/hope/getalbum.php

Music for Sunday March 29

2009-03-29T13:07:00.010-04:00

Today at our worship services we looked at Matthew 20:20-28, continuing on our journey with Jesus to the Cross, identifying with the people he meets.

At 10:00, the High School Youth Band and choir played, and led us in worship. We've been working together to prepare for quite a while, and this was their first time to lead worship with the current group. In the last 4 months we added a bass player, who had never played bass (or guitar) before, and a drummer who started out as a keyboard player, and then taught himself how to play drums. They did great! The whole group sounded great, and the congregation were singing along with GUSTO (that's a technical term). What a blessing it is for congregations to see the youth leading worship. Pastor James preached a great sermon, for anyone interested it will be posted at our website in a few days- www.ilcdg.org

Songs Used-

Love is Here- by 10th ave North
Blessed Be Your Name- in G
You are Holy/Prince of Peace- in G
Every Move I make- in G

East to West- by Casting Crowns (performance piece)
Once Again
The Stand
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Over at Sanctuary1010 we had a guest band (5th Sunday's are always hard to cover), a group of students from Valparaiso University. Joel and his group were so willing to come out, and help us in leading worship, and even rehearsed at the church until 130am the night before! I really appreciate them being there! thank you Joel and band! Come back soon!
Although I wasn't at Sanctuary this morning, I heard that a fuse blew, I'm pretty sure this has only happened a few other times, in our 5 plus years in the theater, and I didn't hear if the problem was resolved (hope so).

Here is Joel's song list, I'm pretty sure, they did not do all of these songs.

From the Inside Out (pre-service- the fuse blew somewhere in the middle of this song)
Because of Your Love
Beautiful Jesus

possible songs for Face to Face ( looking through these songs, I see that Joel did a great job being thematic, as we were talking about Jesus as servant, and ourselves as servants. During Face to Face we had a station where you could come and have your feet (or hands) washed)
Give us Clean Hands
(Forever) The Nails in Your Hands
Washed by the Water (nice choice Joel!)
Unashamed
Jesus Paid it all

Love the Lord

I'm looking forward to hearing how this service went, in particular the foot washing station... wonder how many people just got their hands washed instead? I don't blame them! :)

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Interested in what songs other churches used this Sunday? Check out
www.fredmckinnon.com/myblog/2009/03/29/sunday-setlists-36/)

Singing at St Paul

2009-03-28T10:19:00.007-04:00

Yesterday I had the opportunity to practice with Mia for a recording session next week. What a great afternoon of low key, low pressure, practice and worship. I am excited, but nervous about this opportunity. I get nervous about the quality of my voice, and my abilities to find (and key here- remember- harmony parts). But Mia makes the whole process simple, and comfortable.

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The church we were practicing at, St Paul, looks like it was built in the late 60's and is a cavernous space, surrounded in glass and light. Every time I'm there I wish there were 400 people in there with me, singing there hearts out, with the voices echoing throughout the room.

The banner below was created by a member of the congregation, who happens to be my son's tennis coach! Its beautiful!

Concert a Week - #1 (and 2)

2009-03-24T23:45:00.009-04:00

A number of years ago, my sister and I attended a concert together, after which, we swore to each other that for that summer we would make plans to get together for at least one concert each week. 12 weeks later, we had certainly relaxed more, spent more time with our families, and enjoyed the summer weather, but had not seen even one more concert! In memory of that pact between Cindy and myself, I would like to try again.

One concert a week, 'that's not hard to do' you say? I challenge you too, to do the same and report back with me weekly. My goal of seeing 1 concert a week, will not be difficult in the respect that I live in an amazingly culture filled metropolis. I will try to vary the styles of music, trying to hear some genres that I wouldn't normally pick. I also will be trying to make as many of these weekly concerts, the ones with FREE plainly advertised. The real key will be finding, well, making the time.

Weeks 1 and 2 are already in the bag!

Concert #1- Saturday March 14th- Concordia University Chicago Kapelle

Stacy our field worker from Concordia and her husband sing in this group, so I decided, hey, why not? I came in late to nearly standing room only in Concordia's large chapel. I ended up sitting in front of a couple students, who thought they were being quiet enough whispering (wasn't working), so at intermission I made my way towards the front. The choir was good, and sang many songs from memory. I always enjoy college choirs, for the female voices have matured, but still have a sweet tone, with little vibrato.

Favorites:

Lamentations of Jeremiah - Carl Schalk

In Paradisum - Edwin Fissinger ( a must hear! ps the video is not of Kapelle) www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FIeE3Uj_dE

Mude bin Ich - Thomas Gieschen

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Concert #2-Sunday March 22 - Kevin Radtke, tenor and Andrew Fleser, piano

Kevin is a son of the congregation, and the son of our amazing secretary Barb. The concert was performed from the front of the church, up the 3 stairs towards the Communion rail, where 5 strong men...er...people, including our amazing secretary Barb, had moved the grand piano. The second half of the concert was performed from the balcony with organ. Kevin has extensive training and experience in opera graduating with a Masters in vocal performance from Westminster Choir College, and agreed to come and perform for Immanuel's 100th anniversary concert series. I admittedly am not too familiar with opera, but really enjoyed Kevin's presentation, voice and expression. There was a great turn out for this concert, including a number of people from the community. Thanks Kevin, come again soon!

Favorites:

The Tree of Life (shades mountain) K. Lee Scott- (a beautiful hymn that I had not heard before)
Selection from Ten Blake Songs- The Divine Image - Ralph Vaughan Williams

Music for Sunday March 22

2009-03-22T12:48:00.016-04:00

Today at both Sanctuary and Immanuel we identified with Nicodemus as a seeker from John 3:1-20. Jesus welcomes the seeker- we don't have to hide our doubts or questions we can meet Jesus in the light.

At 10:00 the Praise Choir and Joyful Noise children's choir joined worship leader Gina, in leading us in music.

Mighty to Save - I use the Laura Story version from www.praisecharts.com. I like this version because it fits our instrumental set up well

Worship set- the children's choir joined us in this worship set and sounded lovely singing out on the chorus of Here I am to Worship, I love the addition of children's voices singing along with familiar worship choruses. We began contemporary worship 12 years ago at our church, and so the kids in the choir have really grown up with this music, and sing these songs from memory (from their hearts), so beautifully, one can't help but be engaged in the worship.
I could Sing of Your Love Forever- in D
Here I am to Worship - in D
Amazing Love/You are My King - in D

Closing Song- although the kids did not sing from the front on this one, I heard them loud and clear from the pews. In fact the whole congregation really sung out on this song this morning. Praise God for that! I can't wait to reprise it on Easter Sunday, with full choir, and band!
The Wonder of your Cross- (we used the praise charts arrangements, but we transposed to G for our female worship leader)

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At Sanctuary- ( I was not at Sanctuary this morning but would have loved to be, as I love the songs We are Yours and Dwell, and would like to know how "a new Hallelujah" went since they introduced it for the first time)
We Fall Down
We are Yours
Dwell
Closing song-
A New Hallelujah

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Interested in what songs other churches did this Sunday? Check out
www.fredmckinnon.com/myblog/2009/03/22/sunday-setlists-35/

May the Word have the run of the house

2009-03-20T23:25:00.009-04:00

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. Colossians 3:16

Before telling us about the stuff we as musicians like to hear, Paul first tells us to keep the word of Christ in us. The Message translation even says that the word should "have the run of the house"

Practice on Thursday night was good... praise choir practiced for a half hour, then the band came, and practiced with the praise choir. Stacy, a church music student, and field worker from Concordia was our guest pianist, and did a wonderful job. Drummer Dan joined us, which is always nice since after twelve years of contemporary worship, we can count on two hands the amount of Sunday's we have had a drummer. We got through the songs in an efficient manner, and just as the choir was getting ready to leave for the evening, I grabbed a bible to pick a Psalm for a quick devotion, I paged through the Psalms looking for something short, found one, promptly closed the bible, with out reading it, and told the choir to join me in the basement to practice one last song for Easter. "um... Ellen" Janice politely said, "you were going to read a Psalm to us" I looked at the closed bible in my hand, and remembered the 'quick devotion' I was going to have, and realized how one tracked my mind was that evening and on so many other occasions. Forgetting a devotion here, not remembering to pray before worship there. Often I am so focused on the task at hand, I forget about focusing on the One who authors our tasks.

Today, I was reading in Nathan's new blog, www.leadgracefully.com/blog/ and saw words that really spoke to me as I reflected on Thursday's practice. he says

"This week, lighten the load, pick some older songs and do a shorter set so that you can set aside 15 minutes of rehearsal to do a devo, scripture reading, prayer, etc. Let’s prayerfully fall on Jesus, being filled up in the Spirit before attempting to lead others to do the same. "

I believe that my not remembering to spend more time in the Word and prayer with the music groups, is a direct result of me not making the time to do so in my own personal life. Not only am I going to begin proactively securing this time for myself, I think I will also try to find people in our groups, to be devotion and prayer leaders, who would take on that role at practice and before worship.

May the Word have the run of our practices!!

I'm an idol watcher

2009-03-18T16:28:00.004-04:00

Yes, I'm one of the 30 million or so American Idol watchers out there, although I will also admit, this is the first season, that I'm beginning to think, the contest is fixed... At any rate, I enjoy watching the contestants sing, and grow as singers throughout the competition, I also enjoy hearing what constitutes "good singing", or a "good performance" according to the judges. While watching, I often, very kindly of course, judge the contestants myself, listening for pitch problems, bad tone, rhythm issues, and the like. I even recommend watching the show to those involved in the praise choir, because I think it is a good way, to listen to a few different styles of pop singing, and to develop an ear for the sound of a pleasant voice, or a not so pleasant voice as the case may be.

A number of contestants in years past, including Jordan Sparks and Chris Sligh have been worship leaders in their home churches. This year, Danny Gokey, Kris Allen and Michael Sarver, all contestants in the top 11, are listed as worship leaders in their home congregations.

Results are tonight... I hope our worship leaders do well!

Computer illiterate

2009-03-17T11:14:00.004-04:00

I consider myself ridiculoulsy incompentent when it comes to using computers. Its a wonder, that I can send an email, or even manage a blog. My 15 year old son came home from school the other day, and typed a few things on my computer, and managed to make a web page...with just a few #'s and /'s. Html is it? I don't know!

Even in college the idea of using a word processing program instead of a typewriter, yes an electric one, stressed me out.

Who would have known that technology would be such an important part of the effectiveness of a director of worship music?

What I would give to be able to navigate computer recording programs, or even comprehend the things I would need to purchase to make one useful to me. I have taken numerous workshops at worship conferences on the infamous "MIDI", and still think its something that you can buy and plug in to your keyboard. I am only slowly figuring out the free version of Finale, and just two days ago tested out Audacity, with which I amazingly did what I needed to do, but can now not figure out how to export my creation as an mp3 file.

Speaking of mp3, I bought an mp3 player...sansa something, recently, and have even downloaded some tracks (it's way to easy), but have still yet to even try the thing, and still insist on buying most of my music at local stores, in the hard copy form.

Last night I spent hours...hours trying to figure out how to "link" a page to a page on our church's website. I'm 99% sure this is a simple process, but I could not figure it out.

HELP!

2 things-

I believe I should be trying harder to seek out those in our church, who have gifts and talents in these areas. God has blessed us all with different abilities, and even a 10 year old could do better then me when it comes to stuff having to do with computers (have you seen those new Windows commercials?)

I know that many christian colleges and universities have music degrees that focus more on the contemporary worship angle now? I would have to assume that technology is a large part of these educations. As a member of the LCMS I can relate best to our Concordia University system, and am pretty sure, we do not have such a focus. I can imagine at least 2 semesters worth of tech material (including sound board operation etc), that would be extremely helpful to our future Directors of Music. I'd be the first to sign up for these classes!

By the way, I'm trying to figure out how to post a song directly into one of these posts. If you can help me learn how (okay), or just do it for me (much better), I'd really appreciate it!

Music for Sunday March 15

2009-03-15T20:14:00.012-04:00

Today we were in the 3rd week of a series where we have been identifying with 7 people that Jesus meets on the way to the cross. Today listening to John 2:13-22 we identified with those in the temple, as having spiritual "blind spots" that keep us and others from having a relationship with Jesus.

Music at 10:00 service-
Kristin- worship leader, Frank on lead guitar, Scott and Kevin on acoustic ( Scott brought his new electric, and played rhythm with it on a few songs, Dean on keys

Call to Worship-
Hosanna/Praise is Rising - in E
Open the Eyes of My Heart - in E
prayer
Psalm 19/May the Words of My Mouth
Offering- Frank played a lovely arrangement of The old Rugged Cross
Communion-
The Lamb
In Christ Alone
Closing song-
Amazing Grace

Music at Sanctuary1010-

I played and worship led at Sanctuary this Sunday, just me and the piano

Opening worship set
Be thou My Vision- in C
Once Again -in C
When I survey the Wondrous Cross- in C

( I really liked this worship set and how the songs flowed together thematically, but I set them pretty low to accommodate my limited range, and it may have made it difficult for the congregation to sing. Be Thou My Vision has a large range in it, so its hard to find a comfortable key... key of D gets to high for me on that song, because it goes up to a D, which I find to be about the highest note that girls can sing comfortably, but its still a stretch. Putting Be Thou my Vision in C, puts the lowest note as a G.... to low! I usually improvise a little on the song and sing the G's as C's, but it didn't work today, as I heard everyone singing the melody anyway)

during communion we played a cd of David Crowders- The Remedy, and Deliver Me, both great songs.

After communion/Face to Face we prayed together using petitions asking God to help us find our blindspots in our homes/work/school/community/world. between each petition, we sang a chorus:

Overturn, overturn overturn my life so I might know you more
Overturn, overturn, overturn my life so I might serve you Lord

We closed out the service with an acapella verse of Amazing Grace.

Interested in seeing other churches worship sets for the week? Check out Fred McKinnon's blog where 60 or so other people have links to their weekly sets
www.fredmckinnon.com/myblog/2009/03/15/sunday-setlists-34/

In Harmony

2009-03-12T23:39:00.005-04:00

Last night I had the pleasure of attending a harmony workshop put on as part of the Acoustic Roots Workshop series with Mark Dvorak www.markdvorak.com, and instructors from the Old Town School of Folk Music www.oldtownschool.org

If I lived close to The Old Town, and had the money and time I would indulge in many of their class offerings, including, but not limited to- the accordion. I don't have an accordion, but if you do, and want to lend me yours, let me know- I'll take good care of it!

The workshop was 2 hours of inspiring conversation and heartfelt singing from those gathered. I came away enjoying the event for the social aspect, but also with plenty of ideas to help teach harmony singing. In fact tonight at practice I used a little "drill" we used at the workshop last night. I asked the group to sing Amazing Grace vs1 only, from memory of course, and repeated it a number of times. The first time through I asked them to just listen, and then as the song went on, to sing out any harmony they heard (even if they didn't think it was right). It worked well.

Last night at the workshop we sang a song I had never heard before called "The Waters of Babylon" based on Psalm 137:1. it is written in a minor key, and sung as a round.

(part 1)By the waters, the waters of Babylon
(part 2)We lay down and wept, and wept for thee Zion
(part 3)We remember, we remember, we remember thee Zion

I am trying to figure out who wrote the song we sang last night, as I found a different version which is a fairly well known reggae song sung first by The Melodians, and covered by many since, including, Sinead O Connor and Sublime.

I finally ran across a version by Don McLean, apparently when he sings it in concert, the whole audience participates in the round... but I still can't figure out if he actually wrote the haunting melody. Then I found this video of the song being sung by a group of singers from Canada. Just in case you really like their sound, they also cover Beatles tunes :) :)

www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMhIgrjQjPQ

I think I'll try this out at Sanctuary some time

Retreating- Intercessory Prayer

2009-03-10T19:22:00.008-04:00

My voice you shall hear in the morning, O Lord;
in the morning I will direct my prayer to You,
and I will look up.
Psalm 5:3

This past Saturday we held a worship musicians retreat for all 10:00 and Sanctuary instrumentalists and vocalists. Nathan, worship leader at Sanctuary led the retreat, and it was a wonderfully relaxing and enlightening morning. I really appreciated Nathans insight on a number of things, that I have continued to think about. Nathan brought up the idea of each worship team having a prayer intercessor who on Sunday morning would be a part of the band, praying on behalf of the band, the pastor, the congregation and the worship time. Being born and bred Lutheran, this idea of a "prayer warrior" is a bit foreign to me... I imagine a woman with long flowey hair, lots of jewelry, wielding a sword, speaking in tongues, and generally making me feel uncomfortable

I attended a worship service with a prayer intercessor for the first time about 5 years ago in Edmonton, Alberta in the coldest month of Jan, at the worship conference, Break Forth. www.new-creation.net The prayer leader was a man, without jewelry, or long flowey hair, he did not speak in tongues, and the only think he held was a bible. He sat on a stool with the band, and read from the bible and prayed. After a few songs he invited the worshipers to come up if they had prayer requests. Before long, more and more people kneeled at the bottom of the stage, waiting to be prayed for. I myself felt a strong desire to go up to the front, but I couldn't even will myself...the idea of exposing my need for prayer- eegads!

At Sanctuary over the last 5 years, we have often had prayer stations with 1 or 2 "prayer leaders" available to pray with those who care to, but never someone praying throughout the whole service for us. One argument, I have heard against having a prayer intercessor is that they may leave the congregation feeling that they don't need to, or don't have the skills to pray for themselves and the worship service, because someone else is doing it for them.

Either way, I think it would be nice to have someone dedicated to praying for us throughout the service. I'd like to see where we can go with this
And by the way, after 5 years of having prayer leaders at Sanctuary that we could pray with, I have yet to feel comfortable going up and exposing that need...

Music for Sunday March 8

2009-03-09T12:23:00.012-04:00

This past Sunday at both campuses, we talked about Peter, and his "waffling" We also looked at Mark 9:24 "Lord i believe, help thou my unbelief", a prayer I appreciate and use.

I played keyboards at 10:00 and sang with Phil who was worship leading. We had a new drummer who was planning on coming, but after a hard rain, he had water in his basement, and could not make it. Right before the service started I looked out into the congregation and saw Byron...what do ya know, Byron agreed to play at the last minute. A little unconventional, but good times were had, and good music was made.

Music At 10:00-
Come Now is The Time to Worship- in C
My Savior My God-in C
Your Grace is Enough- in D
Lord Have Mercy by Steve Merkel (we used vs 1 of this as a confessional response of sorts after the sermon- Pastor had the congregation kneel for the first time through, then they stood for the second time through)
The Wonder of Your Cross- in A

Music at Sanctuary-
Lord I Believe- Dan took the passage from Mark 9:24, and wrote a chorus with it. The chorus was interspersed throughout the service as so:

Lord I believe
congregation reads Matthew 14:25-31 silently
We Fall Down
congregation reads Matthew 16:13-17,21,23 silently
O Lord Your Beautiful (vs 1 and 2)
congregation reads Luke 22: 31-33, 54-62
Lord I believe

later in the service we used the chorus again
Lord I believe
Apostles Creed
Lord I believe
Benediction
All I Need Is You by Marty Sampson

An Introduction

2009-03-08T14:57:00.004-04:00

What does it take to create a missional music ministry? I work as music director at a wonderful Lutheran church in the suburbs of Chicago. I spend most of my time planning and coordinating people for a weekly contemporary worship service, and a second off campus, "postmodern" style worship. I love choosing music, and creating worship services that will engage the congregation, and help them to truly meet Jesus face to face.

Recently I have been thinking more about how we as church musicians can take our music "out of the Sanctuary" and into the streets. What does this mean? I'm not sure exactly. What I'm pretty sure it doesn't mean, is the idea of putting a band together to go play christian rock at a local festival or band shell, or inviting people from the neighborhood into our church to hear our bands play on Sunday morning. These are fine ideas in themselves, but... I'm still thinking.

What I hope to record in this blog, is the typical "going ons" and planning process of my typical church musician week, with the ongoing prayer that God direct me and those involved in the music ministry to continue to grow in servanthood and love for our community and world around us.