This post is to celebrate the work together of our two choirs in the Parish over the period that the Choir at St Mary Magdalen has been without a Director of Music (since January 2011). Their collaboration, and the participation of organist Andrew Painter, resulted in a splendid Parish Choral Evensong for Harvest on Sunday evening. The fellowship shared by the two Choirs is an outstanding example to the Parish as a whole.
Their work invites further contemplation on the role of music in our worship, which draws on the thoughts of John Harper in a piece posted on the RSCM website. Underlying these detailed comments is the overwhelming issue, which is how to combine the best of the old and new so that all musical tastes – within reason! – are encompassed.
How does the music relate to the season?
Many worshippers are unaware just how much choice and selection of music has to go into a well-constructed service in terms of appropriateness of message.
Furthermore, the choice and use of music at specific points of the service can enhance the moment and its meaning.
At the Gathering.
Should the song or hymn be the very first item, or should we greet one another, and then gather in song?
Praise.
Having gathered and prepared for worship, there is an opportunity for praise – in the Eucharist, the Gloria in excelsis. How do we best express our praise for the Almighty?
Responding.
We hear the Word of God, and we want to respond. How should we use psalms or other songs to respond to the Word? How do we maintain a balance of readings and song to ensure the cohesiveness of the liturgy?
Proclaiming the Gospel.
As the Gospel is brought to be proclaimed to the people, should they welcome and acclaim the Good News in song?
Reflecting.
We hear readings and a sermon. That is a lot to take on board. How might we reflect on what we have heard, and how might we consolidate those thoughts by the use of music?
Affirming.
The affirmation of faith includes the creeds. These are texts defined by meaning, rather than by poetic effect. How might we affirm in song the underlying principles of our belief?
Praying.
We make intercession for the church, the world, all in need, and those who have died. What music enables us to deepen our collective prayer?
Offering.
We offer ourselves and our gifts to God. In this we offer back to God the fruits of his creation. How do we express the joy of our offering in song?
Thanksgiving.
We give thanks to God for the ultimate gift of his Son for our salvation. If this is in the context of the Eucharist, how do we voice our thanksgiving in the Eucharistic prayer? In other services, how do we express our heartfelt thanks in music?
Contemplation.
After the Communion at the Eucharist, or in a period of stillness at other services, we contemplate the mystery and wonders of God. What kinds of music can contribute to that contemplation? Or is this a time for the music of silence?
Sending out.
We are sent out to the mission of the church in the world. What kind of music enables and strengthens us for this task?
© John Harper, from a draft for an article related to Patterns for Worship (2001)
