It is a new year and the music department of the church is growing. Last year, in a humorous vein, I started a music class I called Music 101. It was designed for people who know absolutely nothing about reading music but who are curious about it.
I am happy to say that Danny Rankin, Art Barrett and Judy Withrow have completed the course with honors (I think Judy knew more than she let on 🙂). Now I need to begin a Music 102 that will help them polish new skills, and also be open to people who have some knowledge but also want to polish skills. We will continue to meet on Wednesday at 6:00. Again, this “class” is open to anyone who wants to brush up on their music reading and singing skills.
I am sure, however, that there are more people in the church who need to begin at the beginning, and who would like to learn more about music and how we turn funny looking squiggles on a page into beautiful sound. Therefore, I’m willing to begin a new Music 101. There will be a sign up sheet in the vestibule, and if you sign up I will get in touch with you about a day and time to meet.
This is open to children and young people as well as adults, and it certainly is open to anyone who is curious and interested.
I’m aware that this is not a Bible study as such. But it encompasses these things:
1) It follows the Scriptural suggestion to “encourage each other with spiritual hymns and songs”.
2) Music is more “encouraging” when it is well presented and understandable.
3) People are more willing to participate when they know something about what they are doing.
4) Music is one of the great connectors of the church. It can connect people to people, and connect people to God. From children’s teaching songs to the soaring heights of music laid down by the great music masters, music lifts, educates, edifies (old Biblical word rarely used outside the Bible), and unifies. The more we know, the more we appreciate. The more we know, the better we communicate.
From The Sound of Music comes these words: Let’s start at the very beginning, a very good place to start. Join us, see you soon.
Yours in Christ,
Janice ( better known as the piano player).