Music in the Church
A Personal Journey Including Tools for Worship and Music
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My professional and spiritual experiences in church work have been many and varied. Before his death, my husband, Rich, repeatedly urged me to write about those experiences. The Covid 19 pandemic of 2020 afforded me the time to do so. The process has been intellectual, spiritual, and emotional. Just as we all hope to grow from life’s experiences, this project has been unexpectedly insightful and life-changing for me. Let there be no doubt that God continues to work His purpose out.
I hold in my heart family, friends, clergy, professors, and, most particularly, all the co-ministers of music that have helped me to make a joyful noise these many years. As I have often said to my choirs, “it would be lonely up front without you.” Our ministry does take a village. A team of devoted and gifted people are what makes music shine. Thanks to every one of you.
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About the Book
Chronicling the professional and spiritual walk of a church musician, Music in the Church not only follows author Shirley R. Smith’s personal journey, but it also offers relational and musical tools for the position of church musician.
This memoir recounts her life as a child through high school, covers her years of education relating to her vocation, and describes the music ministry positions she’s held. In addition, she offers her thoughts on approaches to programming in the church, aspects of effective worship planning, and present-day life through the eyes of a pandemic-induced lockdown and vocational plans for reentry.
A memoir, Music in the Church expresses Smith’s sincere hope that God’s faithfulness reflected a positive spirit on the lives of others, bringing them joy and confidence in the promise of God’s salvation and love. She hopes others draw closer to God and discover new and refreshing ideas on the presentation of music in the church and the importance of healthy relationships within those walls.
About the Author
Shirley R. Smith earned a bachelor’s degree of music in organ performance from Oberlin Conservatory, a master’s degree of music in organ performance from George Washington University, and a master’s degree in pastoral counseling from Norwich University. She has been a director of music in churches for more than fifty years. Smith has served in numerous denominations and worked with vocal choirs of all ages as well as instrumental ensembles and orchestras.