We’re right on the beginning of the New Year, so let me turn your thinking to Easter (yes… Easter!).  I know you just put Christmas behind you, but hopefully you’ve already begun thinking about Easter, 2013.  It’s early this year (the very last Sunday in March!) so that means you don’t have alot of time for rehearsals.  If you’ve not already begun, let me offer some suggestions to jumpstart your Easter thinking…

Probably one of my favorites for this year is “Easter Song” by our trusted friend, Tom Fettke.  Published by Praise Gathering Music, you know one of the things Tom does best is to pull yesterday’s songs and arrange them for today’s choirs and music.  He’s done it again with the classic 2nd Chapter of Acts (that’s a LOT of yesterday’s back!) selection “Easter Song“.  This song seems to never lose its popularity; it really is a timeless favorite.  Perhaps best of all, you can present this entire work on Easter Sunday morning, and still have time for your pastor to preach!  It’s only 20 minutes in length, so it fits nicely in this format.

The other “new favorite” for this year I must tell you about is “Where Love & Mercy Meet” by Marty Parks.  Marty has combined new songs with familiar ones in this work that also has a complete drama script included in the book!  I was really glad to see Marty go back in time and use one of the most popular songs of his late father (Joe E. Parks), “Behold The Empty Tomb”.  I was, and always will be, a huge fan of any of “Daddy Joe’s” music; and I know he would be very proud that Marty used his song in this, Marty’s newest musical.

There are several other “mini musicals” worth your consideration this Easter as well (with the short window…mini’s may be the ticket!).  These include “He Rises!”,”I Will Arise” and works like “It Would Take a Cross” and “As Sure As My Redeemer Lives“; all worth a preview.

I’ll post again in a week or so, and next time I’ll tell you about some of the great new ANTHEMS coming…there are some really good ones coming to start of 2013!  (If you’re a member of our #1 CLUB, be watching your mailbox for your complimentary Winter Anthem Preview Pak arriving in the next week or so.  If you’re not a member, why not join today?  Just click #1 CLUB for full details and to enroll now!)

Remember our 14-Day Approval program if you wish to preview any or all of the above selections.  You can get them and keep them for up to two weeks (three for customers west of the Mississippi!), and return them if you don’t like them.  (Sorry, but this special service is only available to #1 CLUB members, but you can join on our website if you’re not already a member!)

One last thing…in case you haven’t heard!  We’re doing a “scaled back version” of our Winter conference here in Spartanburg coming up next week.  Called “The Gathering of Friends”, it won’t feature all the trappings we’ve done in the past at The Gathering in Hilton Head each January, but it will instead afford a highly interactive, and very intimate setting for you to preview new music, and hear some special friends share their heart about music ministry (like an extended Q&A session with Charles Billingsley and Scott Bullman one night and Mike Speck the next day!).  It’s all happening here in Spartanburg on Monday-Tuesday, January 14-15 (2013 of course)…and you’re invited.  The registration cost is just $50…so call me if you want more details.  We’d love to have you join us as one of the “friends” at “The Gathering of Friends”.  (And no, it’s not too late to register and come, even now!)

Singing His Praises,

“Music Diane”

You’ve probably also had those weekends when you walk into the choir room on Sunday morning and everyone ( well, almost everyone) has gone out of town, had guests or other familiar excuses given for missing church… especially during the summer months. Immediately you have to go with Plan B!  What…no Plan B in place?  Then it’s time you developed one!  I want to pass on a little tip I found most useful for me when this happens. I had a stack of 8 or 10 anthems that I called my “emergency package”. These were pieces that the choir knew front to back and they were my fall-back on those special Sundays when no one showed up.  And believe me, there were plenty such Sundays scattered over 38 years of church music.

I’d like to share with you some anthems ( most of us call them octavos) that you may or may not know, that can make up a pretty good “emergency package” for the summer months; or any time of year. If you need more info on any of these or others that I may not have listed, please contact me. I always love to talk about the Lord’s music!

Check with me on arrangements of these great stand-bys:

“Through It All“, “How Beautiful“, “How Great Thou Art“, “Be Still and Know“, “Honored, Glorified,Exalted“,”I Am Determined“, “All For The Glory of Jesus/I Am Not Ashamed“, “Heart of Worship“,”Be Ye Glad“,”We Shall See Jesus“,”Ye Shall Be Witnesses” and I could go on and on. I bet some of you have never heard some of these titles. There is also a series of nice arrangements of traditional hymns with a solo accompaniment for various instruments called “The Piano Plus Series” that would be absolutely perfect a summer filler. Again, let me emphasize that this is only a few titles that I could connect you with, there are many more waiting for you. So, please contact me if this spikes your interest.

Continue to sing, spread good tidings and remember “Some days there won’t be a song in your heart. Sing anyway!”  (I love this quote from Emory Austin…don’t you?)

Music Diane

I had mentioned in a previous blog entry, a brand new work by Dave Clark and David Clydesdale,”In God We Still Trust“. I think one of the reasons this SATB musical has intrigued me is, it is not typical “Clydesdale”. You still have the high energy that David is known for, but he has also written lower ranges for the soporano’s and tenors. He has also given the venerable Armed Forces Medley a new twist that your audience or congregation will absolutely love. You really need to check this one out!

Let me also mention some other, previous years’ releases, that are all well worth consideration. I’ll begin with a Randy Vader/Jay Rouse work entitled ”Homeland“. I promise your congregation will be on their feet before you get to the end of any of these songs! Of course, you have your traditional patriotic music, and this dynamic duo of Randy and Jay have added a great arrangement of “Lean On Me” combined with “We Shall Overcome” and “Doxology” (no kiddin!). I get goose bumps just thinking about this work.

Another one well worth your investigation is “God Bless America Again” by Mike Harland and Richard Kingsmore. It is a clarion call to exactly what the title is refering to, for America to turn back to God and seek His hand of blessing once again. Easy to sing, great narration, and and SATB arrangement of “The Lord’s Prayer“ that’s worth the cost of the entire book!. (Tip: With a little tweeking, this arrangement could also be used for a wedding where the bride has requested a choir to sing!)

One last one you must consider is “Home of the Brave” by David Clydesdale and Deborah Craig-Claar. Yes, this is several years old, but it is still one of the best! If you have ever seen David T conduct, you know why his musicals are so high energy; and this one if filled with his full vigor. You’ll sing the “American classics”, along with some beautiful ballads that are bound to bring a tear to many an eye in your audience or congregation.

If you’re looking for something different, or just needing some ideas, give me a call or drop me an email (dhall@christiansupply.com).  I’m always happy to help in any way I can.

Blessings,

Music Diane

You also learn a lot about kid’s homes in choir rehearsals. Sometimes you have to turn your head and even walk out of the room to keep from losing it. Losing it from aggravation and/or from laughing so deep inside you can hardly contain yourself.  Remember kids tell everything and they love to share with others!  Probably like you, I’ve had moments that when I look at some moms and dads later on, and can hardly keep a straight face. Kids are so honest.

Speaking of kids and choirs let me tell you about a couple of new things for these special choirs that you might find helpful. I have just heard a new musical by Robin and Bill Wolaver, better known as members of the “Annie Moses Band“.  This new release is “Hallelujah Harvest” from Lifeway Worship Resources. This is a fun-loving musical for kids from K-5 thru elementary school.  It follows a young farm boy named Joshua who travels thru “Tasseltown” and has encounters with Rockette’s Beauty Shop and the Stumbling Blocks.  Then, it’s on to Aunt Rhody’s Boarding House where he finally meets Pastor Thornfield and the world-famous evangelist, Lettus Havitt.  Joshua learns the important lesson of the Parable of the Sower.  I think your kids will love the music and this is VERY easy to stage and present.

Another kids product that might work really well for church schools, after school programs, family centers, daycares or mother’s morning out is “Teeny Tykes Tunes“. This program is written by Pamela Vandewalker and Cherry Garasi.  This is agreat resource for those that work with babies and toddlers!  You have action songs (that catch the little ones attention), finger plays, and animal songs; all along with Bible songs and stories that give the little ones every chance to learn all about God while they wiggle and giggle.

Also, be watching for the “official” launch of our website for Choral Festival 2012!  It’s almost done, and we’ve got a GREAT program this year (including a premiere of Celeste Clydesdale’s newest Christmas work for kids!).  You won’t want to miss Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Laura Story, the Thomas Road Baptist Church Choir & Orchestra, Charles Billingsley and more!  So mark your calendar for August 1-4, 2012, and plan to join us here in Spartanburg for this year’s CHORAL FESTIVAL!

Lastly, let me just remind you that if you have any questions about any form of church music, or would like to see some of the music I have mentioned, please give me a call or email me. I would love the opportunity to chat with you. I promise, if I don’t know the answer, I will find someone who does!

“Music Diane’

One of my favorite genres though, has to be Patriotic music.  I love a parade (sounds like a song title, doesn’t it?) and I love that feeling you get when you see and hear patriotic music performed.  I guess you could say I get goose bumps that match red, white and blue!  If you have never had a special patriotic program included in your music ministry, you need to do one THIS year (July 4th is on a Wednesday this year)!

There are several great patriotic musicals available that are a couple of years old (call me if you want to know more about them!) but there is one new one this year that is dynamite!  “In God We Still Trust”  is a new work from Dave Clark and David Clydesdale. The “two Dave’s” did some uniques twists in this work and I liked them all!

For instance, on the armed forces tribute, they utilize children’s choirs or young voices added to the adult singers with new lyrics for this time-honored song.  It doesn’t change the tradition of having your congregation stand for the different branches that they served in for their tour of duty; but it gives fresh energy to this favorite patriotic moment.  I have heard so many people say that is one of the highlights of a patriotic musical to see and get a chance to honor those that have served and serving their country.

Another great “touch” is the inclusion of a powerful song that was co written by Dan Dean and recorded by Phillips, Craig & Dean entitled “Pray For Me”.

I hope you will consider a patriotic program for this summer.  If I can help in any way, know that I’m as close as your phone (800-845-7618, ext. 238) or email (dhall@christiansupply.com); and I’d love to connect with you!

As I close, let me just say that I’ve been listening to Christmas 2012.  (Yes, I did say Christmas!)  We have some great things coming for the Christmas season this year.  Ask me about it next time we talk.

I’ll be waiting to hear from you.

Blessings,

“Music Diane”

Our best selling octavo from our conference was “Mercy Said No” written by Dave Clark, Don Koch and Greg Long; and recorded by Phillips, Craig & Dean. Now that is a winning combination! I loved the duet with the choir and the vocals are not difficult at all. I think the only special requirement of this song is having strong voices for the duet. Cliff Duren has arranged this so that any size choir can do it well. I give it a 10+, and I had “predicted” it would be one our top-sellers!

Our second best-selling octavo was “Lost In Wonder” written by Martyn Layzell and arranged by Russell Mauldin. Most people would say this is an Easter piece but in reality, it can be used at Easter or throughout the year. I would pull this one for a choir special for Lord’s Supper, or for really any occasion. The simple arrangment of this song features your choir with no soloists, and it is a great example of pure harmony. I also give a 10+ to this SATB arrangement.

The other anthem I knew would be strong, and indeed turned out to be our third most popular offering was, “I Shall Wear A Crown” arranged by Jay Rouse. I am telling my age now, but I remember this song when we use to sing the word “we” instead of “I” (Shall Wear A Robe & A Crown). It doesn’t matter which pronoun you use, it’s still a powerful song!  My hat is off to Jay and Randy Vader because they have gone back and picked some great traditional songs, even some Gaither hits, and rearranged them to suit today. I know that “gospel” doesn’t work in every church, but I’d be willing to bet every church does have folks in the congregation that like to hear it at least every once in a while!  Anyway, this one is also a 10+. Thanks Jay, for taking us back down memory lane.

If you want to see what else was featured at our conference, just visit our website and click on “The Gathering” tab in our Choral Music section.  You can also give me a call (toll-free!) or shoot me an email, I’d love the opportunity to talk to you about these and other great anthems.

“Music Diane”

1-800-845-7618 (ext. 238)

dhall@christiansupplycom

If you are experiencing a “winter slump”, let me suggest a great new SATB collection for your consideration.  It’s called “The Instant Worship Choir Collection”.  These arrangements are easy enough for any size choir and also work well for those singers that “forget” or miss rehearsal; and then show up to sing on Sunday!  Believe me, I’ve been there in your shoes in the past, and I really wish I had had this book back then. This collection features singable arrangements of seasonal music, worship songs and even traditional tunes.  A variety of arrangers contributed to this work, including Camp Kirkland, Lari Goss, Marty Parks, Russell Mauldin, and others. I think this is a great tool and resource for any church music library.  Just as a taste, one of the songs that your choir will love is Scott Wesley Brown’s classic, “When Answers Aren’t Enough”. You can’t go wrong with this collection; just let me know how many you need and I will get them right out to you!

Much Love,

Music Diane

Have you decided on your Easter? If you haven’t, you really need to shack off the winter doldrums and get going! This morning I’ve been listening to Randy Vader and Jay Rouse’s “Remember” and this SATB work is really nice. I actually can see choirs singing this all year round.

I have always loved the music of Easter. Being the daughter of a Baptist minister, I grew up with those cold morning sunrise services at our small country church. I remember wondering why we had to have service outside at such a cold time of year, but I did learn something about Easter there. Easter is my passport Eternity with my Lord. I got this same feeling listening to “Remember“. Once you meet the Master, how could you ever forget? That is enough to make a Baptist shout! Randy and Jay chose a song, “Glorious Day”, that I remember singing at those cold sunrise services, only we called it “One Day”. I get goose bumps each time I hear this song. No matter what you call it, it’s just great gospel music!!

I have also listened to “O What a Savior” by Steve Mauldin. The Mauldin brothers (Steve and Russell) grew up about 20 minutes from here in Greenville, SC. Their father is a dear friend (and long-time customer!) of Christian Supply and is a faithful, retired Minister of Music. These brothers come from good music background. I do like Steve’s new book but I wouldn’t pigeonhole it as an Easter book. Again, I would use this book all year long. This work has timeless arrangements of good old Southern Gospel songs. Easy to learn and easy to sing…with goosebumps again!

I must get back to work (and answer your calls!). I hope you’re making plans for a glorious Easter. As you prepare, remember to take time to worship yourself, and prepare YOUR heart…to lead your people in the celebration of Easter!

Because He Lives,

“Music Diane”

I thought you’d like to know what some of the “favorites” of our registrants have been from this week. We began our conference on Monday with John Jennings and Dave Clark and the Lillenas session. You might want to check out the best-selling anthems from that session, “Here For You”, A Mighty Fortress” and Camp Kirkland’s “Grace In All Its Glory”. We then moved to Lifeway session which also featured some selections from “Red Tie Music” (from the Thomas Road Baptist Church choir and orchestra with Charles Billingsley).

By the way, the Charles and the TRBC choir and orchestra, along with their pastor Jonathan Falwell, will be some of the featured guests at Choral Festival 2012 in Spartanburg this August 1-4!

One of the highlights of day two was the premiere of David Clydesdale’s “In God We Still Trust”. Remember, the 4^th of July is on a Wednesday this year, and this would be a perfect program as it is only 25 minutes in length!

Already this morning, it appears that the Praise Gathering session “hits” are “Jesus Saves” and “When He Shall Come”.  Randy Vader is still reading though…so stay tuned!

I really do wish you were here to bask not only in the sun, but also in God’s goodness with some of His choice children. Both the Voices of Lee on Monday night and Laura Story’s concert last night, were simply foretastes of heaven!  Maybe you can plan to be with us next year, and we do certainly hope to see you this August here in Spartanburg. As always, I am waiting for you to call or email me if there is anything I can do to help you in your music ministry.

He Keeps Me Singing!

“Music Diane”

My first suggestion would be that you give a listen to Your Great Name by Gary Rhodes and Tim Cates. This is a new worship event that brings your singers and your congregation to a worship service that lifts up the name of Jesus. This is a new work that can be used as an Easter service OR as a non-seasonal work. You will find some of today’s most popular worship songs like “Jesus Saves” and ”Your Great Name”, as well as new arrangements of classic favorites such as “Because He Lives”.  You will experience quiet worship times and lively celebrations of Jesus’s love for each of His children. There are definitely some of these arrangements that you would want to use specifically at Easter, but I think you’ll find it a valuable non-seasonal resource for any time of the year as well.

My second suggestion?  Either contact me for information on other new products for the Easter/Spring season, or subscribe to the automatic RSS feed of this blog (I’ll be covering even more new releases in coming weeks).

A “bonus” third suggestion would also be to watch your inbox for our new edition of Take Note, our choral music newsletter that previews all of the new Easter releases (as well as highlighting non-seasonal and best-selling Easter favorites from last year).  It’s in the mail and on it’s way to our choral music customers!

Just know that I am ready to talk to you about a lot of new music that is going to be coming your way this year.  If you know me at all, you know I love to talk about music, and to help you find just the perfect work or piece for your ministry situation. Call (800.845.7618  ext. 238) or email me (dhall@christiansupply.com) today.  I’ll be waiting to help in any way I can.

Here’s a closing thought: Somedays there won’t be a song in your heart. Sing anyway!!  It’s not an original thought, but one I’ve “borrowed” from Emory Austin.

Blessings,

Music Diane