"Summer music" has begun!

Sounds of summer come to us through open windows, pool parties, lazy backyard barbecues, biking and hiking. The sounds of nature, sounds of children playing, concerts in the park, recorded music over more-than-ever-before-listening-devices - all create a rich background of summer sound. Sitting at my kitchen table, the whirr of a fan, the intermittent whoosh of cars passing by, birds and children chirping, an electric sander on a neighbor's house, quiet rustling of trees - any of these could inspire the likes of a Stravinsky or Messiaen. Each of us is a "composer" as we tune into the sounds around us and give an order to those that have special meaning for us.

Summer church gives an opportunity to draw on and expand the resources of music available to us. In the less formal chapel worship, we invite people to share with others the music they love. Please consider ways to share:

♪ share a favorite hymn during the pre-worship time for hymn singing;

♪ recommend a favorite hymn or other music for use in a worship service;

♪ introduce a new song for all to learn;

♪ share your own talent of singing or playing an instrument, no matter how
elementary or advanced;

♪ gather a group of family or friends to provide music in worship.

Already, we have been introduced to some new hymns being considered by the Presbyterian Committee on Congregational Song for inclusion in a future hymnal. Already, we have begun to explore the talent and interest in some of our young musicians. What can you do to bring a new dimension to our music-making during summer worship?

How often, making music, we have found
A new dimension in the world of sound,
As worship moved us to a more profound
Alleluia.

vs. 2: When In Our Music God Is Glorified
Fred Pratt Green, 1972

Peggy Hsiao