The results of last year's music survey have been tabulated. Although there were only 14 responses, they included thoughtful answers which could be extrapolated to represent a larger percentage of the congregation. Many favorite hymn selections were not surprising, but some requests for new songs were, such as "Dominique" and John Lennon's "Imagine." I will work to include into the Music Program as many of the suggestions as possible, such as a "casual choir Sunday" requiring no Thursday evening rehearsal. I had already started this last month on a very "casual" basis; announcements to the congregation will allow more people to participate.
The Hymn of the Month program received favorable comments, although there was some grumbling about singing new hymns. The language of The New Century Hymnal came under attack. I do print in the bulletin the more familiar words to favorite hymns, such as O Beautiful for Spacious Kkies, Fairest Lord Jesus, and We Gather Together. You will be pleased to learn that we will sing at least one Christmas hymn each Sunday in December.
There were favorable comments about the choir singing up front, and a request for more organ music with the choir singing in the choir loft. So much modern music is seared for piano rather than organ; the piano supports the small choir much better.
From the Fall 2003 issue of "The Stanza," the newsletter of The Hymn Society, comes this little story which you may find interesting:
"Please! NO more new hymns. What's wrong with the inspiring hymns with which we grew up? When Igo to church, it's to worship God, not be distracted with learning a new hymn. Last Sunday's was particularly unnerving. While the text was good, the tune was quite unsingable and the harmonies were quite discordant."This letter was written in 1890, and the hymn that elicited the complaint was "What a Friend We Have in Jesus."
If you did not take part in the survey and would like to have your opinions heard, grab a survey sheet from the table in the table as you enter the sanctuary, complete and return to Marjie Kichline, Music Chair, or to me. Thanks for your ongoing support of the Music Program.
Ele Nash
Music Director