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20/11/07
65 musicians and clergy met last month at St Paul’s Cathedral for the inaugural London Church Music Forum to start exploring the use and provision of music in churches in the London Diocese.
Delegates from around the Diocese heard interesting and challenging presentations and took part in discussion groups.
The Revd Michael Lawson, Archdeacon of Hampstead, spoke about the nature of worship and what it requires:
“Worship is a heart engagement of love, affection and gratitude in response to God who has made us and who has redeemed us by the Cross. We should use our gifts in worship to so honour him that we enrich and truly inspire our worshippers.”
Huw Williams, Organist and Assistant Director of Music of St Paul’s spoke about the work of the church musician in the 21st century and gave many practical ideas on the planning, preparation and practice needed for musicians to sustain and develop their own talents and skills and to inspire people who participate in choirs and music groups.
Mervyn Hogg, Project Manager for the LCMF, also spoke about how musicians can use their gifts to provide music in parishes that is suitable for the local culture. He also explained how the power of music can draw people into the Church and provide a legacy for the future.
During the day discussion groups addressed the issues and challenges facing church music and musicians in London.
Speakers from three organisations also talked about the training and opportunities that provide support to musicians.
Nigel Groome from the Royal School of Church Music described the recent RSCM reorganisation in London and plans for a convention in 2008, and the development of Saturday training sessions for small groups.
Simon Williams from the Royal College of Organists described the College’s prestigious examinations and the introduction of a revised certificate with components specifically aimed at church musicians. He also introduced the St Giles International Organ School that offers tuition on a one-to-one basis with very experienced teachers, a junior organist’s conservatoire and a programme of courses ranging from a full week in August to occasional Saturday sessions.
Finally David Peacock described the undergraduate programme in music and worship at the London School of Theology and the range of short courses offered by the school to support parish musicians. He also talked about the opportunities available to place students in parishes as part of their development.
London Church Music Forum
The Royal School of Church Music
The Royal College of Organists
The London School of Theology
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