Let's Worship Conference

This past weekend 60 ish people from different churches came to Calvin for the "Let's Worship" Conference. I wasn't part of the actual conference, but did help cater the event (see entry about the "Friendly Hands"). I thought it might be nice for you to know about those things that go on in Calvin that allow for others to grow and learn and be nurtured as well. It was sponsored by our church and there were lots of great workshops to attend. Here's what happened. 9:00 a.m. Opening Worship

Track 1 - The Art of Worship Team Leadership

9:30 a.m. Vocals and Vocal Harmony Paul & Greg This session will address the role of the worship team in encouraging the congregational voice, the basic structure of the worship team, the ideal number of vocalists, lead vocalists, microphone technique, when to use vocal harmony, and how to create vocal harmonies.

10:40 a.m. Break

11:00 a.m. Rhythm Section I: Guitar and Piano This session covers a variety of topics including: an introduction to the guitar for non-guitarists, the roles of electric and acoustic guitars, the difference between solo piano and worship team piano, basic piano textures, and balancing the piano and guitar.

Track 2 The Art of Worship Design

9:30 a.m. Principles of Worship Design Ken /Daryl This session will focus on the what and the why behind the choices we make in the way we design worship, considering both our Reformed roots and our contemporary context. We will then focus on the how by examining one church as a case study of a process of worship development.

10:40 a.m. Break

The purpose of today’s workshops is to explore the potential of the worship arts and their role and implementation in worship gatherings.

11:00 a.m. The Art of Drama OR The Art of Projection Peter (Computer-Aided) Ron (not me : ) )

Track #1

1:00 p.m. Rhythm Section II: Bass and Drums This session is an introduction to the bass, the anatomy of the drum set, the drum beat, controlling drum volume and coordinating the bass and drums.

1:45 – 2:30 p.m. Arranging I This session focuses on putting all the instruments and voices together into a cohesive arrangement that supports the congregation’s singing and the song’s text.

2:10 p.m. Break

2:30 p.m. Arranging II An open rehearsal that demonstrates the concepts outlined in the first Arranging section

Track #2

1:00 p.m. The Art of Visuals OR The Art of Liturgy Petra / Ruth-Ann

2:10 p.m. Break

2:30 p.m. Putting It All Together This session will feature a panel of all the presenters and an open discussion prompted by Q&A as well as the sharing of best practices. Everyone is encouraged to participate.

3:40 p.m. Combined Closing Worship This conference was allot of work, but proved to be a great day for all involved. Thanks to all who helped plan the day. Those who attended learned allot and grew from the conference. Below are some pictures of the day.

Registration time.

People "posing" for this picture. Nice pose Ron (not me : ) )

Attendees enjoying break time.

More attendees.

One of several great workshops offered.

Another workshop.

A workshop held in the sanctuary.

Food, glorious food.

Hey, that guy looks somewhat familiar serving the soup. Whew, I didn't spill on anyone..... : )

More Friendly Hands serving the attendees.

It was Winston's Birthday this day. He received a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday to you!"