A Music Director Reflects on Faithful Innovation Through the Lens of His Vocation

When I was a voice student in college and a professional cantor, I developed a deep appreciation for the presentation of music in church. Great cantoring and soloing takes a healthy balance of skill, knowing your congregation, and dwelling in the spirit. Each Sunday at Church of the Epiphany there are multiple opportunities for congregants to listen to a soloist share their voice in a song that may be new, unfamiliar, or challenging. One of my callings as a worship director is to work with members who feel called to put in a bit of extra time and fill these roles as solo presenters.

While working one-on-one with presenters, I start by focusing on learning the song and applying healthy vocal technique. It’s not long after, however, that we begin going deeper into the meaning of the song and how we can draw out sections of the music that speak to us. A favorite prompt of mine is: “Who are we singing to, what do we want them to know, and where is this evidenced in the song.” While dwelling in the nature of the one we’re singing to and what we are trying to get across to them, we begin to see the passion and genuine emotion that overwhelms a person to the point where they can’t help but let it out in spirit-filled worship.

When I hear a soloist who is able to connect to the spirit of a song I am constantly brought back to the 98th Psalm: “Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things… Shout with joy to the Lord, all you lands; lift up your voice, rejoice, and sing.” Each new presenter’s interpretation and spiritual connection to a song leads the congregation to a deeper understanding of how God moves in the hearts of people.