Music Ministry Notes

Singing is one of the most natural human expressions, and everyone is capable of it! Contrary to popular belief, singing isn’t just a gift some are born with; it’s a skill that can be developed, as vocal cords are muscles that respond to practice and care. Often, when people say they “can’t sing,” they simply haven’t had the chance to explore their voices in a supportive setting. Studies show that singing activates pleasure centers in the brain, releases endorphins, and…

It’s always nice to be back in the swing of things! The choir’s “comeback performance” from their summer hiatus was on groundbreaking day, and I don’t think I could have asked for anyone better to celebrate that with! I am always filled with such kindness and with such elation when music is back in my life, especially after these long summer breaks. Even though some music is still present in the service during the summer break it’s always nice to…

It’s hard to believe that it has almost been a year since I’ve been at OCUUC. Time flies when you’re having fun! There are just too many things to highlight in one short article, but I do want to say some thanks. First of all, I would love to thank the amazing Music Director Search Committee for giving me this amazing opportunity. I’m sure it was a tough choice for them and I’m excited that I also get to work…

As February comes to a close my role as a choir director starts to ramp up. The 2024-2025 choral season as I like to call it is quickly approaching. But how does that affect me? It simply just means that I need to start finding music! This article will give a little preview of what’s to come for my first Music Sunday in May as the Director of Music Ministries. It will be titled: Rise Up! Music by Women Composers.…

In the music world, so much of the musical influences and genres that we have today have come from Black composers and musicians, but how has that shaped the way we look at and perform choral music? Let’s first look at the world of spirituals, some of the earliest songs of those who were enslaved. The spirituals provide us with raw emotion, whether it be joyful or sorrowful. These songs were how they communicated with each other, how they knew…

It’s been over a month since I have been the Director of Music Ministries at OCUUC and I could not have asked for a more inclusive and more welcoming congregation and staff! As always, the first day at a new job comes with the first day jitters and nerves. It’s been a journey of discovery: learning new things, new processes and meeting new people. It’s been a journey of excitement: finding new music, planning future services and music sundays. It’s…

September has been a big month of transitions and change throughout our music program. When Susan Shaw and I started in our roles as Interim Co-Directors of Music Ministries, we, with trepidation, thought our theme song would most accurately be described by Roy Zimmerman’s “Hope, Struggle, and Change.” However, as we reflect on our wonderful experiences throughout September and what we are anticipating in October, we think a more appropriate song is Hal Walker’s “Amazing Gratitude” — with train whistles…

Over the years I’ve written over 200 Reach articles, and this will be my last one. My time at OCUUC is quickly coming to a close. This transition brings about lots of emotions for me – gratitude, sadness, nostalgia, and excitement – all rolled in one. The famous therapist Virginia Satir created what we now refer to as the Satir Change Model: I find this Change Model to be very helpful when I’m in that uncomfortable Chaos phase. Knowing that…

It is a bit surreal to be writing my second-to-last article. After 22 years my time at OCUUC is drawing to a close as my last day with you all will be September 10th. I am experiencing lots of “this will be the last time I…” as I am wrapping up my responsibilities. A crack search committee is working hard to find an interim music director to manage things while an official search (with Rev. Sian) for a long-term music…

Don’t miss our special Music Under the Stars event on Saturday, July 15 at 7pm. Some of you purchased this as an auction item, but even if you didn’t you can still come. The suggested donation is $10, either through the auction or at the door. The musicians will provide snacks and beverages and we’ll set up tables and chairs in the courtyard under the pergola. Music Under the Stars is always a lovely evening filled with great music from…

By now I’m sure you’ve heard that I have submitted my resignation to the Board, and my last day will be our ingathering Water Communion service on September 10. I gave the church a long notice so the transition can be as smooth as possible. The reason I’m resigning is that I am feeling led to do more work in the adoption space — with my podcast, speaking opportunities, and parent coaching. It was a difficult decision for me since…

Throughout my life, I’ve often reflected that music has literally saved my life. I can’t imagine my life without it. It’s how I communicate, how I bring myself peace, how I express myself, how I open to the Mystery, and so much more. How is music healing in your life? I’m reading the book The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk. (Great book!) The author gives lots of…