Fort Wayne sem offers workshops for church musicians

Church organists and pianists of all skill levels are invited to attend the summer Church Musician Workshops at Concordia Theological Seminary (CTSFW), Fort Wayne, Ind.:

“Basic Level Organists and Service Playing for Pianists,” June 20-24, will cover topics including how the organ works, how to choose appropriate registrations, how to play pedals with both feet and how to lead the singing of hymns and liturgy through effective playing. Pianists will learn the same concepts of how to lead congregational singing of hymns and liturgy from the piano.

“Intermediate and Advanced Level Organists,” June 27–July 1, is designed for organists who have the basics covered but want to improve their skills of playing hymns and liturgy. Topics include creative hymn introductions, making informed choices about organ repertoire and strategies for leading challenging hymns.

“Each year we look forward to working with musicians from all ability levels during our summer music workshops,” said CTSFW Kantor Kevin Hildebrand. “We encourage pastors and congregations to send us your church organists and keyboard players to improve their skills in leading congregational singing.”

In addition to Hildebrand, instructors will be CTSFW faculty the Rev. Dr. Paul J. Grime, dean of Spiritual Formation, dean of the Chapel and professor of Pastoral Ministry and Missions, and Matthew A. Machemer, associate kantor.

Registration for each workshop is $275 and includes four lunches and four dinners. On-campus lodging is available for $25 per night.

To download a brochure, click here. Information also is available here.

Posted March 11, 2016