Musical Resources
Fellow saints of EEF, I write you to share some musical resources with you as we continue to endeavor to grow in our ability to sing all 150 psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with more skill and beauty. I pray that some of these may be of help in your current stage of life.
First, let me point out the various aids found on the EEF website. On the music page, there is a list of each week’s psalms and hymns as well as lists from the past two years. A great many of these have links with recordings of the songs. Likewise, there are links to various hymnals and Psalters. Some even have individual parts. I must point out that many of the recordings are slow and plodding in tempo. Occasionally, the linked recording is a slightly different version than the one we use. They will at least provide you with the music to assist you as you begin. Also found on the music page are two links to music theory websites to help you with various stages of the grammar and theory of music.
“David’s notes” is a new link found on the website. It is a place for me to post a variety of material for the body to access. Currently, the page contains two recommended CD lists, notes from previous Messiah lectures, the order of the Service of Lessons and Carols, and the program from the recent choirs concert. Also to be imminently posted will be an outline of a talk I have gave at Lawrence University entitled “Come, let us sing unto the Lord! A scriptural look at music.” As well as a selected bibliography of books on liturgy, music, and worship; a variety of books to delve into should you desire to read on these topics. In the future I hope to include information on hymns, psalms, composers, styles of music, as well as articles on music and theology, liturgy, etc.
Second, may I remind you of various musical offerings of our church. The monthly psalm sing is a time to learn to sing those “new songs” as well as singing well known songs. It is also a way for us to have fellowship with one another and experience the sweet communion of the body of Christ as we sing back to Him the psalms and hymns with which He has blessed us. This is for all God’s people; not for the gifted alone, nor for the remedial alone, but all together – one body. Additionally, some instruction is provided at the men’s meetings and the ladies’ fellowship.
For those needing various levels of remedial help with singing and or reading music, we offer a recurring singing school. So far, these have been aimed at adults at a beginning level. Eventually, we hope to have multiple levels offered.
Currently, there are four choirs at EEF: a youth choir (boys and girls, grades 3-4), a girls choir (grades 5+), a boys choir (grades 5+), and an adult choir. From the adult choir there is also a small ensemble. The three children’s choirs are open to all children of appropriate age. The adult choir consists of a wide ability level, however an audition is required. These choirs serve to provide instruction in singing and the elements of music to the members as well as to serve the body.
Lastly, for the time being, let me mention the second annual EEF Music Camp. This is currently offered for children having completed grades 4-12. It is not only open to EEF children, but those from other churches as well. Consequently, it is a means of fellowship and ministry at various levels. It is an intense, enjoyable week (July 12-17) in which students study and perform sacred music from various historical eras. Additionally, they take classes on music theory, history, bible, and dance. The staff for this camp consists of those from our local body as well invited guests who are highly trained and skilled in their respective areas. Such a camp usually would be a costly investment. However, the elders and deacons of EEF have deigned to offer this as a free ministry of the church. I highly recommend this experience on a yearly basis for your children and encourage you to personally invite your “non-EEF” friends to enroll their children as well.
All of these resources are provided that God may be glorified in spirit and in truth, and in the beauty of holiness. They are not provided because we at EEF “like/value music.” God has created us to worship him, to proclaim His word and His mighty acts, and to glorify His Name. Not only are we to do this throughout our earthly pilgrimage, but we will be doing it for eternity in heaven before His throne when we shall see Him face to face. One of the primary ways He has provided for us to do this is through vocal and instrumental music. For scriptural support of this, please see the outline of my talk “Come, let us sing unto the Lord.” Music is not a selection on the a la carte line that we select if we happen to like it or are good at it. Music is not primarily for entertainment, although it certainly can be used for this among other purposes. Music IS one of the primary ways that we are to worship the Triune God of scripture. Music IS one of the primary ways that we are to let the word of Christ dwell within us. Music IS one of the primary ways that we are to be filled with the Spirit. Music IS one of the primary ways that we are to teach and admonish one another.
Let me then commend these resources to you. Let me challenge you to examine how you view music in your life. Let me encourage you to grow in your musical literacy. It is my calling and my joy to help you in these things as I am able. I pray that we would all abound more and more in our desire to worship the Lord in the ways that He instructs us through His Word and His Spirit.
Your Chief Musician,
David Erb
March 3, 2004