http://wardchoirguy.com A site designed for those serving in LDS music callings. Built as a resource for music, training, and addressing common problems found in magnifying these callings. Mon, 21 Nov 2011 13:17:00 +0000 http://snappages.com en http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/11/21/the-art-of-programming http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/11/21/the-art-of-programming Mon, 21 Nov 2011 13:17:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/11/21/the-art-of-programming

CHOOSE YOUR PROGRAM TYPE

Preparing an entire program is somewhat like writing a book or a movie. Most successful programs (books and movies included) follow one of two general outlines. Think of the last 300 or so page novel that you took the time to read. When did it really start getting good – to that point to where you couldn’t put it down anymore? Generally, that happens about two thirds of the way through or 200 or so pages in or an hour in to your favorite hour-and-a-half blockbuster. It is the climax. After that happens the writer generally spends the remaining fist full of pages wrapping up back story and explaining motive, etc. This is one type of program.

The other popular program type being used is one that builds tension all the way to the end with the final act or in our case finale musical number being the culmination of the entire hour of other numbers. We see this quite often in action movies and books. However it makes for a great Christmas program as well!

ELEMENTS TO CONSIDER

First and Final Numbers First: Your opening and your closing generally have the greatest impact on how the people perceive the rest of the program. I generally try to start with something short and peppy. This draws the congregation in to what you are doing. You are showing them that you worked hard at this and that you want them to feel engaged in it. You want them thinking, “Wow, this is better than I thought it would be.” The final number is really what should be chosen first. It needs to be your anchor and your message. It needs to be that small phrase that people can remember. For example, if I were building a program around my arrangement of Come, All Ye Faithful, the phrase that is emphasized the most is “Come let us adore Him.” All other numbers would be chosen to build or work into that message.

Orchestration: If you have vocal, piano or instrumental solos you need to consider whether those pieces are moving you toward your climax or calming you away from it – wrapping up the back story so to speak.

Message/Lyric: Sometimes programs work well if you consider chronological order. For example, When Joeseph went to Bethlehem would come chronologically before Hark, the Herald Angels Sing and may fit better both musically and lyrically before the Angels come in. Just something to think about.

Tempo: With the exception of the opening number, tempo can really determine where something will fit on a program. It is also important to use songs that vary in tempo and to use them correctly. Use all fast, upbeat songs and the program probably won’t have a clear climax to it. Use all sacred, slower hymns and everyone will be asleep before you get to your intended message. Mix them up a bit much as a good author will take time out of a fast paced storyline to explain why a character makes a certain choice or describes in detail the sound, smell and touch of something.

Narration: In my opinion, nothing bogs a program down more than a lengthy talk plopped somewhere right in the middle. Keep the program moving by only including short scriptures, spiritual thoughts, and testimonies. People have come to hear the message of the music. President J. Reuben Clark once said, “"We get nearer to the Lord through music than perhaps through any other thing except prayer." Think of the typical Music and the Spoken Word broadcast. How much time is spent on word as opposed to the music. Generally the word portion is simply to nudge the direction of the program in a different direction. One of my pet peeves is a Christmas program where the narrator (generally the most monotone high priest available) reads nearly the entire Nativity from Luke 2 while stops are made along the way for the songs that fit in where appropriate. It is like telling the same story twice. Consider verse 7: “…and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger…” This is inevitably the point where some stop –even mid-verse to start singing Away in a Manger. What if, instead, the narration was taken from 3 Nephi 1:9-14 (which might still be a little too lengthy for my liking). “…the time is at hand, and this night shall the sign be given.” And as the narrator is finding his seat the choir launches right into Away in a Manger. The verse led to the song rather than repeating it.

Above all, remember, the Spirit is able to pierce crusted hearts through music that may not otherwise be reached by the word alone. Use the tool of music as your Sword of the Spirit to prick the hearts of those who will come to hear the beautiful music you and your choir will present. This is where real magnification of your calling will come into play, in preparation for the pricking of hearts. May God bless you in your efforts. Seek the Spirit while programming and you will be guided accordingly.

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/09/29/a-new-calling http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/09/29/a-new-calling Thu, 29 Sep 2011 07:11:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/09/29/a-new-calling
Hi, my name is Riley, I am 23 years old, a newlywed, and recently called as the ward music director and also asked to put together the ward choir. I am pretty musically inclined, I've been singing since forever and play several musical instruments. However, I'm not so sure as to my director [...]]]>
Hi, my name is Riley, I am 23 years old, a newlywed, and recently called as the ward music director and also asked to put together the ward choir. I am pretty musically inclined, I've been singing since forever and play several musical instruments. However, I'm not so sure as to my director abilities. Any advice on putting together a choir and being an effective leader would be wonderfully appreciated. I've been reading on your site and am already getting some good advice, but I am still very nervous and unsure if I can pull this off! Thanks for your time
Riley

Dear Riley,

Congratulations on your new marriage and your new calling. The Lord will surely bless you for your efforts in both of those areas in your life. If I could give any piece of advice in regards to your new calling as ward choir director, it would be that no amount of musical training will be sufficient unless you bring enthusiasm and testimony to your rehearsals. I can certainly relate to your nervousness about embarking into “uncharted territory” as a director. It can be very intimidating to stand in front of others that may have more training or more experience than you do. The important thing to remember is that each of those individuals that come to your rehearsals are there to serve Christ. They are literally fulfilling the law of consecration at your rehearsals (as are you) because they are giving of their time and talents. Respect their time and their talents but remember that the Lord called you to direct this specific work – not Sister UsedToBeDirector… you. He had faith in your talents enough to entrust you with this responsibility and therefore, your choir will have faith in you and because the Lord has faith in you, I have faith in you.

One of the most important aspects of a rehearsal isn’t necessarily pounding notes repetitively – although that has its place, too – but more importantly is that of recognizing the Spirit. When you have “a moment” in rehearsal where something comes together and the Spirit endorses the message you have delivered to each other in that rehearsal, stop and recognize those moments. They can be powerful teaching moments if they are not easily discarded as a moment where the music “just clicked.” Bear your testimony often and let your choir know that you have every intent of serving in your calling by magnification and then back that up with your actions.

Please let me know if there is anything specific I can help with.

Ward Choir Guy

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/07/05/july-give-away http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/07/05/july-give-away Tue, 05 Jul 2011 20:15:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/07/05/july-give-away
Also coming up... Each year when I submit to the LDS Music Festival, if [...]]]>
Also coming up... Each year when I submit to the LDS Music Festival, if I get rejected, you get it for free. This year I submitted, Zion's Youth. In a couple of weeks, I will be offering 10 people the chance to get this piece for FREE. Keep watching for that. In the mean time, let me know how I can help.

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/03/10/young-ward-nurseries-to-infinity-extra-creativity-required http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/03/10/young-ward-nurseries-to-infinity-extra-creativity-required Thu, 10 Mar 2011 17:02:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/03/10/young-ward-nurseries-to-infinity-extra-creativity-required
Expectations

If you listen to the people that have been in the ward or whoever it was that had the calling before you and they say, “We just can’t get a ward choir going in this ward. It is just impossible,” then walk away. If that’s what your expectations are, then you will be right. People will notice your enthusiasm and rise to the occasion. If you stand at the pulpit and make an announcement that your personal goal is to fill the choir seats at the front of the chapel, people will respond to that. Be positive. It WILL be hard at times and sometimes you will have a rehearsal with 3 people but you DON’T send them home. You hold that rehearsal as if there were 20 and people will rise to the occasion.

Non-Sunday Rehearsals

Yep, I said it. A calling other than YM, YM, EQ, WC, RS or any other official sounding abbreviation, that requires time OTHER than Sunday. For the situation outlined above, we found that Wednesday’s at 7:30 PM was the most effective. But what about mutual?!? Bear in mind that this advice is for wards that really aren’t going to have much of a mutual so conflicts should be minimal. Find a day and time that works for as many as possible.

Provide a Nursery

Seems pretty simple and fairly obvious, right? Don’t discount common sense. The way we worked it is we would send around a sign-up sheet around the rehearsal once a month and the choir members would just take turns being a nursery leader for half of a rehearsal. That way what everyone missed was pretty minimal.

Make Personal Invitations

Let people know that you want them to come. Sit in a different spot in the chapel every week and compliment people on their singing and invite them to come sing with the choir.



Keep the Music Simple

Don’t try and crank out grandeur arrangements. That may very well be for another time in life – to everything there is a season, right? Provide music that is simple, yet beautiful so that people won’t feel lost if they miss a rehearsal or two because of sick kids or a busy spouse.

Be Very Cautious With Time

When people with young children come to ward choir, it is a sacrifice. There is a blessing attached sure but it is a sacrifice. Even if it gives a young mother an hour away from her kids while dad takes over, it is still a sacrifice because you know she is going to have to pick up the disaster when she gets home. Be very aware of the time you are requiring. This is probably the number one choir killer in the church. Keep control of your rehearsals. Don’t ask for opinions in regards to music. Go into the rehearsal prepared and know exactly what you want to accomplish for that week and once you have – whether you have 15 minutes left or not. Sometimes I let my choirs out early just so they understand that I know their time is valuable. If I meet my goals, I end the rehearsal. Oh, and NO choir member generated spiritual thoughts. We have plenty of other forums for that in the church.

Use the Spirit

What will keep people coming back to rehearsals more than anything is the same concept for what keeps people coming to church: the Spirit. When the Holy Ghost is felt at a rehearsal, it is your job as the choir director to publicly recognize His presence. In a moment when everything falls in place and you feel the Spirit, take that moment and bear a short testimony relating to the text or to the rehearsal. Let people know what they have felt. In this aspect lies the real key to success in ward choir.

When you rehearse with full purpose of heart and do the very best you will find success in your calling. Angels will sing with you, I have heard it happen. But, you must have faith in the process to make it happen.

EXPECTATIONS + ACTION = FAITH

Happy flapping.

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/01/14/the-strength-within-the-story-behind-the-song http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/01/14/the-strength-within-the-story-behind-the-song Fri, 14 Jan 2011 15:21:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2011/01/14/the-strength-within-the-story-behind-the-song
My wife's grandmother was diagnosed with cancer and it is one that isn't really curable. This is a woman has spent her life in the service of others nearly every waking moment. If anyone deserved a life without this meanacing disease, it is her. We have watched her struggle through [...]]]>
My wife's grandmother was diagnosed with cancer and it is one that isn't really curable. This is a woman has spent her life in the service of others nearly every waking moment. If anyone deserved a life without this meanacing disease, it is her. We have watched her struggle through the pain and yet still find it within herself to serve others and especially her family. She is such a brave woman and such a great example. Shortly after I wrote that verse, the word 'cancer' took on a new meaning for me. I thought about how each of us struggles with sin or addictions in one form or another. In many ways these addictions and sins can be cancerous to our souls. Suddenly it became clear that these words apply to everyone.

As we try to remove the cancer within each of us and become more like Christ, we will see the strength given from him rise within us. We are each given strength to overcome any buffeting that comes from Satan. What a gift we have been given in the Atonement.

A family that is good friends with our family had an event that tipped their reality on its end. Their little one year old was hit by a car and died. My friend's experience touched me. Profoundly. Since I had heard the news, the image of their little boy, as an angel has often been near the surface of my thoughts. Also since that time I have been trying to form their experience into words that could be put to music. I watched their suffering and their pleas to God asking 'why.' As you can imagine, nearly any answer would seem empty and yet this little family continued to press forward, faithful in the gospel. The only explanation that I could see was their faith and a strength that came from within, planted by a loving Maker so that when it was needed, it would spring as a majestic oak from deep within the soul to diffuse the mighty winds of Satan's urgency to bring us to our knees and drag us down with him. I am still touched by their story and dedicate it to their son : Gabriel A. Petit 2006 - 2007. May God grant all of us the strength required to pass through our trials however great they become. Please enjoy the song and share it with anyone you know that is making their way through their trials.

The song can be found HERE.

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/11/26/creative-inspirations http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/11/26/creative-inspirations Fri, 26 Nov 2010 10:06:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/11/26/creative-inspirations
I promise that once I get through the holiday season I will be more regular in my Chlog blogging. I hope everyone's rehearsals are shaping up the way they want them to. If they aren't, what is going wrong? Shoot me a comment and let me know what you are finding frustrating. On a creative note, I have a friend who has been in the business of creating for a long time and is a very successful Creative Director at EA (Electronic Arts) He has a blog that he is regularly updating with great tips and advice about the process involved with consistent creativity and different ways to jumpstart the process. Besides, he is often giving away something cool. Go to www.dustinhansen.com and follow his blog. You'll be glad you did.

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/11/01/if-you-magnify-it-they-will-come-part-2 http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/11/01/if-you-magnify-it-they-will-come-part-2 Mon, 01 Nov 2010 14:07:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/11/01/if-you-magnify-it-they-will-come-part-2
To Nag or Not to Nag

That is the question. If nothing else works, I [...]]]>
To Nag or Not to Nag

That is the question. If nothing else works, I heavily lean towards nagging. You, after all, are trying your hardest to magnify this calling rather than just flap your arms while people pretend to follow along! I use every opportunity I can find to put in a good nag. The first line of defense I like to use is to go ask the bishopric to make announcements about choir from the pulpit while conducting the ward business. When this fails to bring anyone new to choir, I ask to make the announcement myself. I usually say something about how talented the ward is and how the upcoming number will be a wonderful opportunity to bear testimony of the Savior and help others feel the Spirit.

Next, when the bishopric member says, “Are there any other announcements?” at the beginning of priesthood meeting, I raise my hand – even when I’m not the ward choir director and clearly state that we need more male voices in the choir and any support would be appreciated. It usually works into guilting a few brothers to come. Is it ideal? No, but is it necessary? Usually. I also make announcements in Relief Society, Primary and in the Young Women if possible. Which brings up another really important issue: Who are you looking for?

I really enjoy a diverse ward choir so when I make those announcements in the auxiliary groups, I am not just asking the leaders of those auxiliaries but also the senior primary kids, the young women, the young men, whoever will come! Try not to be exclusive with your choir membership and you will have much more success. HINT, HINT: This can also apply when you go ask your Bishop for choir members. YM/YW need service hours. This would certainly apply. It is an “easy peasy” way to get bishopric support.

Clear and Concise Expectations

Okay, so after all that foot work you have a reasonably good sized choir. WHEW! Good work! Now the trick is keeping them. That’s right, all that recruitment might not do a darn bit of good unless you can prove to them that their time is precious to you. The number one way to do this is to have clear and concise expectations in place LONG before the first rehearsal. Know what your goals are, what you want them to learn, how you want the music to sound, a practiced accompanist, and once those goals are met, YOU SEND THEM HOME. Never go over the time allotted. I don’t care how much more work it still needs, if you go over time, you will lose people… FAST.

Do not waste time on fluffy spiritual thoughts; just get right to the music. Speaking of being concise, I’ve reached my 500 word self-imposed limit. I will discuss rehearsal techniques, schedules, and how to deal with Bro. and Sis. Musicknowall in later posts. Until then, happy flapping! Oh, and don't under estimate the value of a nice pile of homemade cookies at the end of a clear and concise rehearsal. They can work wonders on attendance.


]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/10/14/if-you-magnify-it-they-will-come-part-1 http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/10/14/if-you-magnify-it-they-will-come-part-1 Thu, 14 Oct 2010 15:09:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/10/14/if-you-magnify-it-they-will-come-part-1
Priesthood Assignments

Remember how your bishop said, "If there is anything that we can do to help, let us know."? Well, this is it. Wait, wait! Don't just go in there and demand he MAKE people come to your rehearsals. We need to be smart about this. Go in with a plan. Your conversation could go something like this:

"Hi, Bishop. Thanks for taking the time to see me. Can we make some priesthood assignments for people to come to ward choir?"

(Hesitation.)

"What I was thinking is that we could call 16 people (adjust to your needs) to serve in the ward choir as an assignment from the bishopric. We don't want to exclude anyone so anyone would always be welcome to come but that way we have a core group that I can work with so we can really have the spirit in our meetings through music."

(More hesitation.)

"I was also thinking that maybe we could limit the time that they serve in that assignment to say... I don't know, three months, maybe six? Or we could just give them an assignment for a specific event like the Christmas program or Easter?"

"Ummm."

"I realize that you are busy, Bishop, and we all really appreciate what you do for our ward. I realize that this would mean extra phone calls for you or your counselors but I know that with the added support there will be an outpouring of the Spirit in our meetings. If you could make the initial calls, I can take it from there. I know that those that have sacrificed their time to be a part of the program will bring a Spirit that will carry into the music and, in turn, touch the members of the congregation. Ward Choir Guy told me so!"

Okay, so maybe we'd better leave out that last part. But, I have seen this work time and time again. The best attended choir rehearsals are those that are supported whole-heartedly by the bishopric. By the way, if that doesn't work, I would say that you request that a member of the bishopric attend the rehearsals. Which, either way, is helpful.

Personal Invitations

Many times when I have been called to a ward music position I make it a point to sit in different parts of the chapel and listen to those singing around me during the congregational hymns. When the meeting is over I also make it a point to compliment those who I thought sounded good (or even those who just sounded okay) and asked them personally to come to ward choir practice, explaining to them how much of an asset they could be to the ward (the Lord) by using their vocal resources for the Lord's work. Then, follow up with those invitations to let them know that you meant it.

Next time... Clear and Concise Expectations and Nag or Not to Nag.

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/10/05/pushing-or-practicing http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/10/05/pushing-or-practicing Tue, 05 Oct 2010 10:02:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/10/05/pushing-or-practicing
As a parent of students of all sorts of activities - including piano lessons - I think there is an often unexpressed question that usually remains unanswered: Am I pushing my student if I make them practice? My answer is: It depends. For this post I will be focusing solely on piano lessons applications but I think that the information could certainly be applied from anything from baseball to chess.

Genuine Interest

If your student has shown a genuine interest in taking lessons, this is a giant step in the right direction. Right off the bat, if they show no interest in participating in taking piano lessons but you are making them do it anyway because "they will appreciate it later," Um, this is classic Pushing 101. On the flip side, if they can't wait to start lessons, then don't make them if you can at all help it. Get them in there while the fire is hot, then you can save your "pushing" for later when they need to clean their room.

Building "Sticktoitiveness"

I remember my Junior High days. I knew everything there was to know about playing the piano and so I somewhat resisted going to piano lessons and practicing because I didn't "need" them. My parents applied a bit of the push method that resulted in some genuine stick-to-it stock for my life. I am glad that they pushed me through it. However, if they would have tried that with something like soccer practice, it wouldn't have been pretty. Be forewarned that this tactic only lasts so long. If they don't resume some sort of natural interest, it may be in your child's best interest to try something else.

Involvement VS. Nagging

I find that the best piano student parents are the ones that ask me questions about what their students should be doing. I send my students home with a folder that has their practicing regiment very laid out including an approximate amount of time they should be spending per day, how many days per week they should be playing, what pieces they should be working on and any specific instructions directly related to the specific piece. The folder also includes my policies, resources, and pretty much anything else that the parent or student would need during normal practice time. If it can't be answered there, then I make myself available via phone, email, FB or plain ol' knock on the door and ask. On my side of things I have taken every possible precaution to eliminate the excuse of "I didn't know what to practice" so that the burden shifts to the student and their parents. However, students still come unprepared.

So here is my plea to any and all parents sending their children through piano lessons: Make sure you are involved. Make sure you know what they should be practicing, how long, any upcoming events and then make sure that they are sufficiently (but not overly) nagged about getting there and especially that they practice. Set up a rewards program for their practicing or something similar. I know it is annoying to have to ask them every day if they have practiced but you are paying good money to have them taught! They won't learn nearly anything unless they go home from the lesson and apply what has been presented. If they wait three days to crack open their piano books after lessons, you might as well have taken your $10 to $20 dollars that you paid that teacher (me) and thrown it to the fireplace for safe keeping. It wouldn't have wasted anyone's time and would have been just about as useful.

So in the end, I think that pushing equates to forcing kids to practice or do something that they were never interested in doing in the first place. Nagging them to practice should have been an anticipation when you signed up for lessons. Without a little parent encouragement (which can often feel like pushing) the desired education will be overlooked. Be encouraging, be supportive, nag just to the edge of annoying and then take half a step back, help yourself get the most out of your investment and leave your child's teacher with the maximum amount of hair. Thanks for suffering through my little rant. Now, happy practicing!

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/09/14/use-your-budget http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/09/14/use-your-budget Tue, 14 Sep 2010 09:22:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/09/14/use-your-budget
1. Have a specific piece in mind.

Don't just go and ask your Bishop for money without a plan. You need to know what exactly you want to spend it on, i.e. "I need $10 to purchase 20 copies of WCG's O Come, O Come Emmanuel and $20 for treats to keep people coming to rehearsals." Have a specific goal in mind and you will have better luck with finding a helpful Bishop on your side. Above all, get the piece approved before you buy it! Let the Bishop listen to it or figure out a way to make sure that he feels good about it BEFORE you buy anything.

2. Utilize your Stake Music Chairperson

Before you buy anything, call your Stake Music Chairperson and ask them if the piece you want is in the stake music library. If it isn't, ask them if the stake can buy it for you and keep it in the library. If that doesn't work, then refer to your Bishop.

3. Don't expect to purchase a lengthy piece aka Cantata.

Cantatas are thick, they are long and they are usually pricey. Cantata's should be purchased by the stake and they need plenty of notice (a year or more) to make that fit into their budget.

4. Make sure that the piece is universal enough for other wards/congregations to use.

If you can explain that it is an easy piece that any ward choir can learn quickly, you will probably find more success in having the ward/stake purchase it for you to use.

5. Don't purchase it on your own.

Believe it or not this can lead to hurt feelings, someone being offended, or your own disappointment when the Bishop doesn't approve a piece that you have purchased.

6. Look for ways to save money on the purchase.

As much as I like supporting the local businesses, sometimes sheet music can be really overpriced through their retail stores. Do some research online and see if you can find it cheaper. Some of my favorite places to look are amazon.com and sheetmusicplus.com (click on the button on the home page).

As you seek to serve and bring the Spirit into your meetings, you will be blessed with direction as to what music should be performed and ways to make that happen will happen. Best of luck and happy flapping!

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/08/30/free-downloads-page http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/08/30/free-downloads-page Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:06:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/08/30/free-downloads-page
]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/07/06/updates-and-clarification http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/07/06/updates-and-clarification Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:25:00 +0000 http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/07/06/updates-and-clarification
As a note of clarification on my last couple of posts/epistles. I do not mean to imply that if someone wants to give their music for free that it is somehow evil to do so. I love the clarification that the pioneer of free LDS sheet music, Sally DeFord gives on her site. "The Lord has placed me in circumstances that currently don't demand extra income, he has inspired the creators of technology to produce programs that I can use to publish the music without the assistance of typesetters, and he has given me a gift that I did nothing to earn. Sharing seems logical."

I think that it is wonderful that people are able to do that. I am in a situation that requires that I provide some sustenance to my family and prepare financially for our family's future as missionaries (both children and later as a couple). Wouldn't it be wonderful if I could fund those ventures with the gift of music? Anyway, thank you for your support and keep singing (or flapping, depending on what calling you are magnifying at the moment)!

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/07/02/different-perspectives-part-2 http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/07/02/different-perspectives-part-2 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 09:49:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/07/02/different-perspectives-part-2 Why John 2:16 Doesn't Fit



In this chapter of John, Jesus is visiting the temple. Not the corner church house nor his favorite Deseret Book location. He was at the temple. I am not selling my "wares" on the sidewalk right outside the temple doors so I am covered in this argument. The closest example of reality [...]]]> Why John 2:16 Doesn't Fit



In this chapter of John, Jesus is visiting the temple. Not the corner church house nor his favorite Deseret Book location. He was at the temple. I am not selling my "wares" on the sidewalk right outside the temple doors so I am covered in this argument. The closest example of reality that I can see true application for this scripture is the fact that the laundry and cafeteria IN the temple sell "merchandise." However, I will further explain my position on the issue at hand and that position of most that I have spoken to.

WCG's Point Of View

Let me start with a parable of obvious relevance to this issue: The parable of the talents. If you are not familiar with it, it can be found in Matt 25:15. A summary is that 3 servants received talents, money in this specific parable, and the Lord gives these servants each a measure of talent, 5 talents, 2 talents, and 1 talent respectively. The short of the parable is that the servant with 5 talents and the servant with 2 go out and earn 100% interest on the Lord's "investment." These servants are then "enter into the joy of the Lord." Think about that for a moment. They weren't sent on vacation, they entered the joy of the Lord. We know that the work of the Lord is eternal, it never ends. "For this is my WORK and my glory - to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man." Interesting word there: work. I would guess those servants that doubled their talents had some work to do to make that happen.

What is it that the Lord wants from us right after we have given him our broken heart and contrite spirit? He asks us to "feed his sheep." (John 21) Elder Robert D. Hales has an interesting statement regarding this point, "It is significant to me that after commanding the Brethren to teach their children light and truth and set their families in order, the Lord immediately called them on missions. “Now, I say unto you, my friends, let my servant Sidney Rigdon go on his journey, and make haste, and also proclaim … the gospel of salvation” (D&C 93:51). To younger couples with children still at home, I urge you now to decide to serve in your later years and to plan and prepare so you are financially, physically, and spiritually able." (Liahona, 2001) We have often heard this counsel. Does this mean that we cannot serve until we are retired? No. It means that we cannot serve until we are financially able. Have you ever heard of mission presidents being called while they still have children? They receive those calls because they are prepared for them financially.

Back to the talent parable. It is interesting to note what the Lord said to the servant who buried his talent. He says, "Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury" Usury. That's a word that has an interesting definition. "the lending or practice of lending money at an exorbitant interest." The Lord expected usury! Should we not strive to collect that usury for the Lord? Well, how do we do that? We prepare ourselves to serve.

My Interpretation

We are all given talents and we are expected to develop them and use them for the building up of the kingdom of God on the earth. The best way to build up the kingdom of God is by providing usury to the Lord. Where does our usury come from? Our children. Think about it, we develop our talents and use them to provide for our family financially. We are happier because we are doing what we love and what we are good at. This example is then passed down to our children and they develop talents and use them to build their families and so on. This is usury.

Should We Get Paid For Our Talents?

Ask any temple architect and they would offer an emphatic 'yes.' I like the way a fellow musician put it: "Are the contractors who build our churches and temples expected to work for free? As a musician, you are framing 'the word' in much the same way as those builders, you aren't creating it and trying to sell it; 'the word' is freely given to all. The music is a vehicle for it, one of the most intense... I'd personally like to be able to give all my labor for free, but I have to eat and have shelter. The law of consecration is sometimes unfairly applied to musicians, who, as much as we like to romanticize it, are merely workers skilled in music." M. Ryan Taylor

I also like how D. Hansen, a Creative Director at EA phrased a response: "Being compensated for talents given to you from your Father in Heaven is not just okay, it's the way it was meant to be. The word "share" in share your talents does not imply give away for free, it implies not hiding your talents under a proverbial bushel.

"How many of us have one of Del Parson's paintings of Christ hanging in our homes? How many of us enjoy the wonderful illustrations in the church publications every month. Those were not done as pro bono pieces, those were commissioned and the artist that have spent their lives building their skills were compensated."

One more. "There remains an attitude that making money off of your craft is somehow amoral when your craft is to produce product geared for faithful followers. I have never subscribed to this. Saints buy all sorts of things. Including mediated product. Providing product in this arena and gaining compensation is not tantamount to paid ministry nor does it negatively impact the goal of spreading a gospel message. Some folks just see making money and serving the Lord as mutually exclusive. I just don't see it. I never have." R. Baird

It Is Not Free

Every aspect of the music that is produced has a cost to it. Any music on the internet generally has costs involved. I'll take my example since I am most familiar with it. Here are a few costs, just to name a few: I paid good money for notation software, I take time away from my family or pursuing other means of employment to make music, I have purchased recording equipment to make it available for listening, I have purchased a piano and other instruments to create and produce the music, I have paid for an education in music, etc. Anything that I charge for music is simple recuperation of these costs. (Believe me, it will be a looong time and many, many sheets of music before the majority of these costs will be recovered)

I think that many musicians are doing themselves a disservice by offering all that they create exclusively for free. And they, in my opinion, do other musicians a disservice in that they are creating an expectation (as is evidenced in the ward choir music market) that is unreasonable and/or unsustainable. When trained musicians cannot be compensated for what they do best, they must go look for work elsewhere and they will not be able to freely share their talents as they might otherwise be able to. Does this mean I abdicate zero freebies? Absolutely not. A musician MUST offer samples of his craftsmanship just as an author or artist has a portfolio or a businessman has a resume. But they should give the patron an opportunity to offer the Lord his usury in return for the artist's wise stewardship of the talents and "both are edified and rejoice together." (D&C 50:22)

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/07/01/different-perspectives http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/07/01/different-perspectives Thu, 01 Jul 2010 11:53:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/07/01/different-perspectives Name:
Concerned
Message:
If your mission is to "spread the gospel of Jesus Christ through the heart-piercing power of music", why aren't you providing your music free of charge? Remember what Christ said to the money changers [...]]]> Name:
Concerned
Message:
If your mission is to "spread the gospel of Jesus Christ through the heart-piercing power of music", why aren't you providing your music free of charge? Remember what Christ said to the money changers in the temple in John 2:16: "make not my Father's house an house of merchandise."
This is an issue that I struggled with long before I started this website. The way I see it there are two basic sides to this argument with a thousand variant spins. The commonality is the premise that God has given us a talent and that it needs to be developed and used for the benefit of others. Where two philosophies diverge is the method in which those talents are to be distributed. The two sides are simple: paid or unpaid.

My Understanding of "Concerned's" Point of View

We do nothing to earn the talents God has given us. They are given to us freely so it would be nearly if not entirely blasphemous to expect or require payment for the sharing of those talents to build up His kingdom. In fact, I would go far enough as to say that many of us have made covenants that consecrate our time, TALENTS, and all that the Lord has or may bless us with for the building up of His kingdom. "That you may be equal in the bonds of heavenly things, yea, AND earthly things also, for the obtaining of heavenly things. For if ye are not equal in earthly things ye cannot be equal in obtaining heavenly things." (D&C 78 5-6) Yes, I am referencing the Higher Law or Law of Consecration. Why is this law so important to the building up of Zion? "...Zion cannot be built up unless it is by the principles of the law of the celestial kingdom; otherwise I cannot receive her unto myself." (D&C 105:5)

According to this point of view, we should all be contributing our talents to the building up of Zion and our payment should be the rewards reaped thereby: The blessings promised to those who contribute to Zion, most importantly: eternal life.

The Loophole

I would 100% love to subscribe to this and live it with every aspect of my life. The problem is that in the world we live in not everyone subscribes to this law. We still live in a non-celestial world with inequalities that must be reasoned with on a daily basis. No one is going to pay my bills if I give away the products of my long studies and hours of work. The other really big problem with this argument? The scripture from John has been taken COMPLETELY out of context.

The Sequel

In the next post I will discuss why this scripture isn't even relevant to this argument, explain why this was an issue I struggled with, and why I anticipate payment for my work and why any artist (or skilled craftsman) should too, and back this up with all sorts of references. See you then!

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/06/24/whirlwind-month http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/06/24/whirlwind-month Thu, 24 Jun 2010 07:58:00 +0000 http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/06/24/whirlwind-month
I have just made a minus track available for those that want to teach it to their group without interference.

Also, my family just got back from a vacation in Idaho. We spent an extended weekend on the banks of the Payette River. We had a song-inspiring family experience that I would like to share.

We were floating a raft and my son in an inner tube down the lazy Payette for our second time. The sun had been shining, the birds were out and it was beautiful. However, about a mile away from the beach where we were to get out, we heard a distant rumble and saw dark clouds peeking over the distant mountains. Jan and I decided we'd better stop floating and start rowing. About five minutes later my son asked to move from the tube to the boat and it's a good thing because within the next couple of minutes those black clouds were on us and they were letting all of their sorrows out on us. We had my little girls hunker down in the bottom of the boat. The poor things just whimpering. Then the worst part came - 40 mph gusts of wind. We were literally being blown back up the river. The wind took that tube and used it as a kite anchored to our raft! Luckily, we were able to find a place to get out safely. However, that didn't improve our situation much because we were still at the mercy of the storm.

Then the miracle. There were a few scattered cabins around. We ran to the door of one hoping that someone would actually be there. To our surprise, the first door we knocked on opened. A sweet older lady came out and offered us her home and a ride back up to our van. Judging by her dress and the crazy noises coming from her car, she didn't have much besides that old cabin but she still offered to save us. As she was driving us up to the comfort of our own vehicle, it occured to me that everyone will have experiences in life where they need saving and beyond that, we all have spiritual storms that need repair. The next song I am working on? I think the title will be: Everyone Needs A Savior.

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/06/01/the-ward-chorister-a-rare-opportunity http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/06/01/the-ward-chorister-a-rare-opportunity Tue, 01 Jun 2010 09:53:00 +0000 Ward Choir Guy http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/06/01/the-ward-chorister-a-rare-opportunity As we prepared to begin the meeting we opened our hymn [...]]]> As we prepared to begin the meeting we opened our hymn books to number 60, The Battle Hymn of the Republic. This is probably my favorite patriotic song. At first, I thought nothing of it and just sang along as everyone always does during congregational singing. I dropped my head, buried myself in the book and started analyzing the tenor line in the back of my mind as I was singing it. As we reached the third verse, I did what most everyone else did: just kept singing. However, it didn’t take me long to realize that the chorister, and therefore the organist was doing something different. She had slowed down the verse and was adding predictable fermatas. Immediately I thought to myself, “Now there is a sister who takes her calling seriously.” The difference? Was it that she was trying to be musically creative? Mmm, maybe. Was it because she wanted everyone’s attention? Again, maybe. However, I think it was because of something much deeper.

I think it was because she was trying to heed the words of the Savior, “magnify the calling whereunto I have called you, and the mission with which I have commissioned you.” (D&C 88:80) This sister understood that she had a work to do.

The ward chorister is probably one of the most under-utilized and least magnified callings in the church. Many members who receive this call think that their only influence is to put the hymn numbers up on the board and keep time as the organist whips out the sound. However, this sister taught me that it is much more. There are two things I learned:

1 – Congregational singing can be a powerful tool for teaching by the Spirit in the meeting. We are all familiar with the scripture “for my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me…” (D&C 25:12) However, what I think what we miss in congregational singing is that what we all learn in primary about prayer. A prayer must be sincere and heart-felt. If it isn’t, then it is simply rote oblations which the Lord does not need from us. We have all had those prayers: “Thank Thee for this day, thank Thee for this food, bless it, AMEN!” As a ward chorister, we need to teach the members that singing isn’t just “the food prayer.” But it is an opportunity for reflection and reverence.

2 – This concept is easily taught through subtle but deliberate actions by the ward chorister without ever saying a word – however, I’m sure the Bishop wouldn’t mind if you volunteered to speak on why congregational singing is such a powerful tool for inviting the Spirit either! When preparing the hymns for congregational singing, keep a few things in mind.
You are, in essence the choir director for your congregation. Use those same types of tools that are available to choral conductors. If you want a verse to be soft, conduct it with a smaller pattern, if you want it to be loud, conduct larger. If you want to add a fermata for emphasis within the text, do it reasonably. Rehearse these techniques with your organist beforehand so they are also prepared to help you in your efforts.

Keep in mind that congregational singing does have limits as to the liberties that you take. However, as you start to implement your style into the hymns, you will find that more people are watching you and really expecting you to interpret the hymns so that they can better feel the Spirit through your efforts.

As you really try to infuse the hymns with your testimony, you will feel the Spirit sanctify you (D&C 84:33) in your work. Make more of your calling that may often seem insignificant. You will be amazed at how it makes a difference once you turn from filling to magnifying. WCG

]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/05/24/upcoming-projects-and-music-to-look-for http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/05/24/upcoming-projects-and-music-to-look-for Mon, 24 May 2010 14:06:00 +0000 http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/05/24/upcoming-projects-and-music-to-look-for

• A full fledged resourse page that will feature links to free and nearly free music. that will allow [...]]]>
  • A full fledged resourse page that will feature links to free and nearly free music. that will allow you to rate individual sites as to how helpful they are to you in your callings.
  • spiritual resources for peacefully presenting your case to a seemingly unsupportive leadership.
  • Motivational resources for helping fuel your ward and stake members with the fire required to attend weekly rehearsals.
  • Conducting and Educational Resources
  Just to name a few. On the musical side of things I am nearing completion on an arrangement of the Battle Hymn that our young men performed on Sunday. It will be one of those where they can learn it in one or two rehearsals and still be awe inspiring for your congregation. I am recording tracks for Come Unto Me, the new Oakcrest theme song. Save Me is a new song that I have been working on and should have available soon and finally, getting all of my old compositions and arrangements into a format that will allow me to share the music with you. I will also be posting some Ward Choir related topics on the blog in the next few days. Stay Tuned!
  
  ]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/05/20/oakcrest-sheet-music http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/05/20/oakcrest-sheet-music Thu, 20 May 2010 08:13:00 +0000 Ward Choir Guy http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/05/20/oakcrest-sheet-music HERE. I am really excited about getting this song out there to the youth. It really rings true as a personal invitation from our Savior that I hope will [...]]]> HERE. I am really excited about getting this song out there to the youth. It really rings true as a personal invitation from our Savior that I hope will inspire many to stay on the narrow way.
  
  I am offering to come and teach this song to your youth as an inspirational fireside or a mutual activity. Please contact me HERE to request a time and we'll work out the details.
  
  I am hoping to have an available mp3 for download soon. Please check back often for my new music and musings. I have a lot of exciting projects in the works.
  
  ]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/05/04/oakcrest-theme-in-3-weeks http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/05/04/oakcrest-theme-in-3-weeks Tue, 04 May 2010 08:50:00 +0000 http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/05/04/oakcrest-theme-in-3-weeks
  The theme scripture is 3 Nephi 9:14. In [...]]]>
  Almost three weeks ago, I was approached about composing the theme song for Oakcrest girls camp this year. I thought this would be a wonderful opportunity to share music through the spirit and immediately accepted the challenge.
  
  The theme scripture is 3 Nephi 9:14. In this scripture, the Savior says three times to "come unto me." It is really a challenge to write from the Savior's perspective considering all of my human frailties. I went to the one place that I thought I could be the most perfect: the temple. It was there that the inspiration started to flow.
  
  I will soon be posting the sheet music and a halfway decent (but not professional) recording so that if you have girls going or coming home from this camp, they can have the song and music available as a memory of the spiritual experiences and wisdom gained there. Look for it on our home page.
  
  If you have any experiences with this song or with Oakcrest that you would like to share, I would certainly love to hear them. Drop me a note here.
  
  ]]> http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/04/26/strange-way-to-start http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/04/26/strange-way-to-start Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:05:00 +0000 WCG http://wardchoirguy.com/blog/2010/04/26/strange-way-to-start [...]]]>
  
  I have three young kids and they make plenty of noise. We sit near the back doors of the chapel so that we can make a speedy exit with a "rowdy" if we have to. Needless to say, Sacrament meetings are rarely a spiritual experience when accompanying kids of this age to this type of meeting. However, lately I have really been trying to look past the noise and really look into the hearts of everyone around me. I had one of these moments in this meeting.
  
  The speaker was a newly returned missionary and he did a great job of inviting the Spirit with his address. However, my kids were making at least 50% of the low rumble that everyone in the chapel hears as “white noise.” It was the usual routine for us: Pray that somehow the kids will make it through the sacrament portion of the meeting so that you could feel justified in handing out the treats and toys afterwards. They made it. WHEW!
  
  Out came the fruit snacks. My youngest is this curly, fire red-headed, two year old princess that is just impossible to get mad at even when she is throwing a tantrum that would normally cause an earthquake. Anyway, she is the sweetest little spirit and she has developed this routine of taking her snacks and sharing them with any kids that she can see. Again, needless to say, we have collected somewhat of a following of families with kids that sit near us and we love it. She was in the process of doling out the snacks to everyone when my wife suggested that she share them with a little boy that was sitting behind us. She nodded her head and toddled off in the direction of the end of the row. In her two-year-old innocence, the row became too long and she got lost or forgot where she was going and looked around her for some guidance. My sister-in-law was sitting about halfway between us and the end of the row so she lifted her straight up where she stood to give her a view of where she was going and set her right back down where she had stopped and then my sweet little daughter ran back to the little boy and shared with him the prize that she had been saving for him in the first place.
  
  At that moment, the Spirit taught me a few things as only the Spirit can.
  
  First, I thought about how we are often like my little daughter where we have a specific goal in mind but along the way we get distracted or simply forget what it is that we were doing in the first place. Whether it be for work, school, music or any type of worthy goal, we sometimes get lost, falter, or lose our way entirely. That is where my sister-in-law comes in.
  
  Second, the Lord loves us so much that He and our Father are leaving nothing to chance in our lives. There are no coincidences, only situations that have been carefully orchestrated by the Lord. Back to my gummi snack story… My sister-in-law lifted up my daughter, just for a moment. Just long enough for her to gain a higher perspective, to see the road ahead – not enough to see the whole chapel or the entire church building from a Google-type view – but just high enough to see which direction she needed to go to accomplish her righteous desires. I think that if we are watching carefully for the Lord’s blessings, he does this for us as well. He will lift us just enough to see what our next few steps should be – not high enough to see our life unfold before our eyes and not high enough to see through to eternity – but just enough to let us see a little of His perspective.
  
  Lastly, as my daughter returned to “earth” she was put back right where she had left off. Could her aunt have lifted my daughter over the chair and put her directly in front of her goal? Absolutely. Could the Lord usher us right to the finish line or put our dream job right in our lap? Sure He could. But He doesn’t. He would not rob us of the journey. The refining fire that comes with the hard steps, the setbacks, and the seemingly endless trials are what make us strong and more importantly, more appreciative of what it is we have worked so long and hard for.
  
  I hope that as you check back with us often that you will somehow find that higher perspective in your music calling or whatever it is you might be involved in. Please feel free to comment, to request a topic, or share your testimony. Thank you and enjoy.
  
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