The Cricket and Seagull Fireside Chat

How You Can Get Involved With the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Leonardo in SLC

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 13 Dec 2013 01:31:07 +0000

For centuries they lay hidden in clay jars in remote cliff-side caves near the Dead Sea, but now you and your family can see the Dead Sea Scrolls in 10 US cities, including at The Leonardo in Salt Lake City right now through April 2014. And even if you can't go in person, you'll find amazing ways to be involved from wherever you are at the website (TheLeonardo.org) with podcasts of lectures, book clubs, and picture books.

In this audio interview, Bryton Sampson, communications specialist at The Leonardo, takes us on a quick tour of the possibilities and what you'll experience at the exhibit. From a 3-ton stone from Jerusalem's Western Wall of the Temple Mount to everyday objects and sections of the actual Dead Sea Scrolls, you'll find plenty to pique your interest.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Calling all Gospel Doctrine Teachers!

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 24 Oct 2013 03:15:00 +0000

What was temple worship like in Old and New Testament times? What ancient symbolism might be enlightening to us as we worship in our Latter-day temples? The 2013 Sidney B. Sperry Symposium taking place this Saturday on the BYU Provo campus addresses these and many other aspects of "The Mountain of the Lord" in ancient times. And if you can't attend in person, the book containing nearly all of the presentations has just been published.

In this audio interview, Dr. Jeffrey Chadwick of the BYU Jerusalem Center and the department of Religious Education at BYU shares the history and purpose of the symposium, gives some passionate advice to Gospel Doctrine teachers everywhere, and lays out a preview of his own presentation at the upcoming gathering -- "The Great Jerusalem Temple Prophecy." The symposium begins at 9:00 am in the Joseph Smith building on the Provo campus and it's completely free. Click Here for symposium details online.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Seeing the Holy Land through spiritual eyes, with Kyle Woodruff

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 28 Jun 2013 06:18:00 +0000

So here’s a question; if you could visit Israel and go to all the places you’ve read about and dreamed of experiencing, using every sense but sight--meaning you wouldn't see a thing--would you still want to go? Would it be worth it?

Kyle Woodruff has been blind since birth, but on a recent tour of the Holy Land with a choir, he “saw” the land of Israel and the places Jesus walked and taught, in very different ways than everyone else in the group--and came up with some amazing and surprising insights.

That’s this week on The Cricket and Seagull

"Hearts and Minds" with Kayson Brown

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 04:16:51 +0000

Motivating and inspiring young people to do their best is always a good thing, but how to do it? In the case of the members of the Lyceum Philharmonic Orchestra, director Kayson Brown seems to have found just the right formula for inspiring excellence.

In this interview he talks about high expections, love, and an over-riding sense of purpose; traits which apply to much more than music, although we’ll be sure to hear lots of great music along the way.

That’s this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Seek Ye the Face of Christ - J. Kirk Richards

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 17:12:00 +0000

What if you wanted to paint the being you worship? You might worry that you don’t have the skill, but what about an even more basic consideration; is it right to even try?

If you do try, then what kind of representation should you use? Classical, realistic, or abstract? You’ll find all these questions and a lot more to think about and see in this excerpt from J. Kirk Richards’ recent keynote address at the 2013 conference of The Association for Mormon Letters, titled, “Seek Ye the Face of Christ: Considerations in Depicting the Savior.”

And, because it’s such a visual presentation, we’ve made this a video podcast. Click here to view the presention.

That’s this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

The 23rd Annual Hunger Banquet at BYU

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 01:57:00 +0000

The word “banquet” conjures up the image of a feast; delicious food and lots of it, but for the past 22 years, students at BYU have hosted a Hunger Banquet – a banquet where the goodies are not doled out equally. In fact, most of the attendees go away hungry, at least physically, but filled with a very tangible vision of the scope of global poverty.

This event is truly “thinking globally while acting locally,” not only by raising awareness, but also by benefitting a local organization which helps international refugees in Northern Utah.

Click Here to listen! That’s this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Backyard Winter Gardening with Caleb Warnock

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 03:32:00 +0000

It’s the middle of winter here in North America – the time for snow and freezing temperatures, and the time when nothing grows in the garden. At least that’s what most of us have come to think.

But you might be surprised to know just how much you can grow all winter long. In fact, the skills of winter gardening were common knowledge and even common practice up until just 50 or so years ago.

This week we’ll talk to an expert on Winter Gardening – a man who manages to feed his entire family from his garden all winter long. In this interview you’ll learn how a winter garden works, and you’ll also learn a simple secret to always having a garden no matter where you live.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

A Hometown Christmas with Cori Connors

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 03:04:00 +0000

There’s nothing like a hometown Christmas — a Christmas when you were together with family, when the high school choir set the mood for the season with their concerts, and when you saw and waved to your neighbors as they scurried among the downtown shops seeking treasures for their loved ones.
A hometown Christmas is a bit harder to find these days — strip malls and canned holiday music which starts around Halloween have seen to that, but they still do happen. In this case we’ll listen in on a few numbers from a hometown Christmas concert by Utah singer-songwriter Cori Connors, herself one of just two recipients of this year’s Governor’s Mansion Artist Awards for artistic contributions to the state and her community. We’ll hear a Christmas story or two, a tribute to a real-life hometown hero, a song about the reason for the season, and finally, a sing-along “Silent Night” with all the people crammed into the Farmington Arts Center to celebrate the season. I hope you’ll sing along.
Here’s to a hometown Christmas — that's this week on The Cricket and Seagull!

Couple from LDS Charities serves Syrian refugees in Jordan

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 23:45:00 +0000

The "Arab Spring” has swept across the Middle East this year, bringing new freedoms to people in a number of nations, but in Syria, the winter approaches and hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees who have fled the fighting by crossing into Turkey, Lebanon, and Jordan – nearly half a million and growing in number – are finding life more difficult than ever.

In one of the many refugee camps, you’ll find Jim and Karyn Anderson, two Utahns who have been serving as humanitarian workers for LDS Charities in Lebanon and now in Jordan, trying to bring relief and encouragement to the fathers and mothers who have made their way from Syria over the Jordanian border by night, often through gunfire with their children, seeking any kind of safe haven.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull!

Musical Journeys and Time Machines, with BYU's Classical 89 streaming world-wide

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 04:06:00 +0000

It used to be that if you wanted hear music, you had to make it yourself, or find someone else who could make it. Nowadays we can carry thousands of the greatest recordings ever made right in our pocket. That part has changed. What hasn't changed is what music does to us; what it makes us feel and remember.

Come do a little time-traveling and musical exploration with the hosts of Classical 89, BYU's music station, now streaming worldwide at Classical89.org.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull!

'The Waiting Place,' new music from Calee Reed

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 04:13:00 +0000

When Calee Reed lets go with her big, hearty, infectious laugh, you can't help but laugh along. And when she sings of joy or of holding on through heartbreak, it's hard not to feel that you know exactly what she means. I guess that's the beauty of "The Waiting Place," the new album of songs that marks Reed's recording debut.

With imaginative pairings of familiar hymns and lots of originals, Calee Reed hits the mark nearly every time. Her runaway success of a music video (which you can see here) shows a gift for finding the divine in the mundane and the everyday; the perspective that suddenly snaps everything trivial into it's proper proportion when something really important is suddenly at stake.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Playlist:

Give My Heart Your Peace
Better Than a Hallelujah
Called to Serve
Closer to You
Time for Love
Trust in God
The Waiting Place
Where Can I Turn for Peace?/Be Still, My Soul
She Put the Music in Me
Come, Thou Fount/I Am a Child of God

Come Sing With Us in Israel!

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 05:50:00 +0000

"Next year in Jerusalem!" The Jews have said it for centuries. For all who love the scriptures, visiting the Holy Land fills your heart and mind with feelings and images which rush back every time you open those sacred pages.

And some of the most moving memories come from singing the hymns at the very places they speak of; the little town of Bethlehem, a green hill far away, and not-so-far-far away on Judea's plains. To lift your voice in "He Is Risen!" at the Garden Tomb, to sing "I Stand All Amazed" among the ancient olive trees of the Garden of Gethsemane; these truly are sacred moments.

In this audio interview, renowned choral director Brady Allred invites experienced choral singers to combine voices and form a choir for a 10-day tour of Israel, including exchange performances with the Kolot Hasadeh Choir at the Harduf kibbutz, and at the acoustically gorgeous Scottish Church in Jerusalem with one of Shimon Levtov's accomplished choirs.

Along with the choral events, our experienced guides will make sure we still explore all of the important historical and religious sites which can make a visit to the Holy Land a life-changing spiritual experience in 2013 — "Next year in Jerusalem!"

Click Here for dates and details, including a full day-by-day itinerary. If you’d like to join us, please act quickly, the tour has already begun to fill.

Clive Romney: Committing our Ancestors' Lives to Art

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 03:44:00 +0000

For decades Clive Romney has been a solid session player, writer, producer, recording engineer, arranger and performer on the Utah music scene, but it wasn't until a change of heart in his 50's that he found what he describes as his true calling in life.

In this audio interview Clive tells both personal and universal stories that show the richness a connection with our ancestors can add to our lives. And, like most good guys in westerns, you can always pick out Clive in a crowd; he's the one wearing the white hat.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Making friends and spreading the word in Nauvoo, Illinois

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 05:11:24 +0000

Summer is a busy season in Nauvoo, Illinois, especially if you are in charge of letting everyone know about the various events and shows happening every day.

In this audio interview, Elder Verl Doman talks about the work he and his wife, Sister Sue Doman, do every day as public affairs missionaries in Nauvoo, and how the church reaches out in friendship to Latter-day Saints and other people alike in the area. Also discussed, is why the growth of the church in Nauvoo puts the LDS Church is a position similar to the 1840's when the influx of saints began to affect the balance in government and politics in the area.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Eric Samuelsen: Finding Spirituality in Unexpected Places

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 25 May 2012 03:33:15 +0000

Recently retired BYU theater professor Eric Samuelsen has always connected spirituality with art, but he finds that connection in a lot of places where most people wouldn't think to look—like a ballgame or a rap song, or even zombie movies.

In this audio interview Samuelsen talks about his background in the arts and shares some eye-opening ideas about what expressions of the human soul can mean to someone with the gospel in their lives and the willingness to take a second look.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

'When I Can't Speak,' a retrospective album from Tyler Castleton

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 11 May 2012 06:56:14 +0000

You've heard his songs for nearly two decades, but maybe you didn't know that songwriter, arranger, and producer Tyler Castleton was the man behind the music.

This new 17-track collection album includes some of Tyler’s most requested songs, as well as a few brand-new offerings, performed by Tyler himself. With performances from the likes of Gladys Knight, Hilary Weeks, Jericho Road, Jenny Phillips, Kenneth Cope, Cherie Call and many others, "When I Can't Speak," features music that closes the gap between heaven and earth.

Playlist:

When I Sing (Tyler Castleton)
When I Can't Speak (Julie Yardley)
Love Will Find You There (John McVey)
Again (April Meservy)
Just Like a Father Would (Mercy River)
I Will Not Be Still (Kenneth Cope)
Blessed Be His Name (Jenny Phillips)
Sometimes He Lets It Rain (Katherine Nelson)
For the Love Of a Woman (Jericho Road)
You Can Change (Julie Yardley)
You Give (Hilary Weeks)
Walk With Me (Tyler Castleton)
I Just Knew (Cherie Call)
Sisters In Christ (Gladys Knight)
Let Him Heal Your Heart (Dave Kimball)
In the Meantime (Jessie Clark Funk)
Shine On (David Osmond)

'Be Still,' the new album of hymns from William Joseph

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:36:35 +0000

LDS pianist William Joseph is known for being a protegé of super producer David Foster, and his first two albums have wowed listeners and audiences alike with virtuosic performances. Now his new release, "Be Still," features an entirely different approach.

Filled with thoughtful, liquid-sounding piano and joined at times by cello and violin, "Be Still," is a collection of reverent interpretations of favorite hymns with a two original pieces which match the mood of the project. In this audio interview you'll hear samples of the music and William's thoughts on choosing and arranging the pieces.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

The Inner City Project--a chance to serve from home

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:50:00 +0000

Whether you're finding an apartment for someone newly homeless, explaining to a foreign refugee what a flush toilet is, or connecting addicts with resources for recovery, the Inner City Project has something nearly anyone can do to fulfill Christ's call to serve "the least of these" right when it matters the most.

Mike and Allene Ross—Elder and Sister Ross right now—are assistant directors for this innovative program which is changing the lives of both recipients and those who serve in downtown Salt Lake City. In this audio interview they share amazing stories about this program which lets you serve for a number of hours each week while still living at home, sleeping in your own bed, and even before you retire.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull!

'As a Child of God,' new music for children from Janice Kapp Perry

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 01:14:00 +0000

She's been writing music for decades, but never loses her enthusiasm for writing for children. Ever wonder what her favorite song is from her catalog? How she combines research and relaxing to create?

In this audio interview about her new album "As a Child of God," Janice Kapp Perry talks about writing for kids, the song that came in a day, balancing life and writing, and answers questions from Facebook fans.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull!

'Peace I give unto you," a Palestinian Relief Society President shares her story

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 19:52:03 +0000

What would you do if you were the only Latter-day Saint you knew in your entire country and the only way to attend sacrament meeting was to get over, around, or through a massive wall meant to keep you and your people out? And how would you make peace with your situation and learn to forgive?

Sahar Qumsiyeh, a Palestinian from the West Bank town of Bethlehem, found unorthodox ways to attend her meetings for 12 years until a job at a UN agency allowed her to pass through the checkpoints freely. As Relief Society President in the Jerusalem District, she shares the same responsibilities as her counterparts throughout the world, but with an added challenge of a wall which prevents many of those in her care from ever meeting. Through it all, she has learned to trust the inspiration and peace of the Holy Ghost, giving her the peace Jesus promised; a peace not of this world.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull—be sure and Click Here to listen.

'Higher,' the new album from Mercy River

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 05:57:12 +0000

The popular all-mom trio, Mercy River, is back with a mix of well-known inspirational music and originals that reflect their own life experiences.

In this audio interview Soni, Brooke, and Whitney talk about the usefulness of onstage humiliation, the good things about surrendering and letting go, plus introduce the LDS market to some of the best contemporary Christian songwriting from recent years.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull, be sure and take a listen!

Playlist:
Beautiful Life
Better Than A Hallelujah
It Might Be Hope
With Him We Can
Change In the Making
Love Never Fails
Let Go
Blessings
Beautiful For Me
Surrender
Just Like A Father Would

'Make Known His Wonderful Works' - Video of the LDS International Art Competition 2012

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 08:35:00 +0000

A video presentation of the audio interview including visuals of all the various works discussed. Click Here to view.

'Make Known His Wonderful Works' - 9th LDS International Art Competition

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 21:52:00 +0000

Rita R. Wright, Curator of Art and Artifacts at the Church History Museum walks us through the new exhibit featuring nearly 200 different works in a variety of genres. Her enthusiasm for art and the gospel is infectious and you'll be glad for a guide who helps you see more deeply into these amazing paintings, sculptures, and yes, even a flannel board story.

In this audio interview you'll hear what kind of support the Church gives to the arts, how learning to understand art an be helpful in understanding the scriptures, and I think you'll especially enjoy hearing Rita Wright get on her soapbox for a moment on the power of art and how it blesses our spirits.

Click here to see a video version of this edition with photos of the exhibits. And be sure to click here to visit the exhibit page itself and cast your vote for the Visitors Choice award.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Utah's LDS Dems credit 1st Presidency letter for record-breaking caucus turnout

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 01:13:00 +0000

Utah State Democratic Party Chairman Jim Debakis was delighted with the soaring numbers of LDS Utahns who turned out for the Democratic Party's caucus meetings last Tuesday, and Craig Janis, head of outreach for the newly launched LDS Dems Caucus, talked about the increased interest in the organization just this week.

With The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints expressing concern over a lack of political participation in the state and amid worries over the ways an increasingly one-party system of government in the state can be harmful to all citizens, Mormon or not, LDS Democrats were impressed to hear the following read over the pulpit in church meetings in a letter from the First Presidency of the Church in recent weeks:

"Principles compatible with the gospel may be found in the platforms of the various political parties. We encourage members to attend their precinct caucus meetings."

In addition, the LDS Church directed local congregations to cancel activities on March 13 and 15, allowing church members to attend their Democratic and Republican caucus meetings held those evenings, respectively. The result? Record participation.

That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull.

'Glory!' the virtuosic new recording from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Orchestra at Temple Square

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 05:31:00 +0000

This new album features masterworks, sacred anthems, a folk hymn, a song from the Broadway stage, and selections from some of the most eminent film composers of our day. Included are jubilant renditions of “Ode to Joy” from Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, Ennio Morricone’s “Nella Fantasia” from The Mission, and one of the choir's most frequently requested anthems, “The Holy City.”

In this audio interview director Mack Wilberg tells about the music choices, Tenor soloist Stanford Olsen, relates the most humbling aspect of working with the choir, and describes the joy of performing and recording some of the world's most enduring (and difficult!) works for choir and orchestra.

That’s this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Emily Thomas, bridging the worlds of the hearing and the deaf

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 19:20:00 +0000

For some deaf recipients of Cochlear Implants, it can take up to ten years to learn to distinguish sounds and to speak. But for Emily Thomas, from Oklahoma, it was a miraculously short period of less than two years; years which coincided with her finding the Gospel and deciding that God’s gift of words to her was a sacred trust.

In this audio interview with Emily Thomas, a professional counselor deaf since birth, you’ll learn three things deaf church members wish hearing members understood about them, hear a remarkable story of the Gospel of Jesus Christ bringing a family together after a decade, and generally bask in the glow of someone full of the light of the Lord.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

LDS athletes go downhill fast--and that's a good thing!

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:05:00 +0000

Cody Reese and and Brandon Larson look like any other athletes until they slide up their pant legs to show off the high-tech prosthetic legs that keep them in the mobile mainstream of society. What's not mainstream is their penchant for zooming down mountainsides at 70 mph.

In this audio interview bobsledders Reese and Larson and their coach Jeremy Holm talk about the spiritual lessons learned from challenging yourself to do difficult things, whether able-bodied or otherwise, and why they do what they do.

(Find them online here and on Facebook here.)

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

'My Rules,' 14 modern songs with a message for youth

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 02:15:56 +0000

Positive music can inspire, heal, uplift, and enlighten. That's what Craig Clifford and Aaron Edson have always believed and now they've released “My Rules,” a new album of 14 original pop, rock, and hip-hop songs that intend to prove it.

In this audio interview Craig and Aaron talk about creating an album of modern music that encourages kids to live more hopefully, purposefully, and honorably, while enjoying the styles and beats they love. You'll hear their philosophy of music and don't miss my favorite of the bunch, "Something Sacred," which, as Craig says, "I can't believe has never been written before."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

'Simple Gifts' and 'Life Reflections' from Jason Tonioli

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 01:18:29 +0000

You might not know it from listening, but some of Jason Tonioli's hymn arrangements and piano pieces have come to him at unusual times and places; like while he was white-water kayaking or boarding a bus to leave a little town in Argentina he'd come to love. In every case though, they are heartfelt expressions of his life and what he feels.

In this audio interview you'll hear what convinced him to keep practicing piano as a reluctant teenager (moms take note!) in Hooper, Utah, and why he posts many of his arrangements for free online. It's a preview of two albums in one program.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

James Conlee's voice soars on his new album, "Sunday."

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:40:59 +0000

Mixing classical influences with sacred hymns, James Conlee sings new interpretations of beloved melodies from both worlds. At times he combines actual pieces as with "Abide With Me" and "Pachelbel's Canon," "I Often Go Walking" with "Claire De Lune," and others.

James has performed with the Broadway touring company of "Miss Saigon" and is a former BYU Young Ambassador. In this audio interview you'll hear about the hymns and arrangement process, how recording with the City of Prague Philharmonic provided a once-in-a-lifetime musical experience, and why several of these hymns have a personal connection to a loved one.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

'We Are Amazing!' new music for children from Bobbi Hansen

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 04:23:00 +0000

Bobbi Hansen has always loved working with kids and music, but she was a bit daunted when she first felt the vision of a new musical project for kids coming into her mind and occupying her thoughts and feelings. Luckily for kids everywhere, she was willing to be brave and step forward in faith and dream big.

In producing "We Are Amazing!" she teamed with veteran children's writers Roger & Melanie Hoffman, Marvin Payne, and Steven Kapp Perry to write and record a program that embodies the concepts she felt every child should know about themselves and their world. Take a listen as she shares the music and the results of performing the songs live with 2nd and 3rd grade choirs.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Latter-day Saint mayor runs for President in Mali

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 01:37:00 +0000

A visiting legislator once asked Joseph Smith Jr. how he governed so many people with such order. Joseph replied, "I teach them correct principles and let them govern themselves." Joseph Smith was the mayor of Nauvoo, Illinois at the time and was later a candidate for President of the United States. Now, over a hundred years later, another Latter-day Saint espouses much of the same principle-based philosophy of decentralized governance, only his name is Yeah Samake, he is currently the mayor of Ouelessebougou, and he is a candidate for President in the African country of Mali.

In this audio interview, BYU graduate Yeah Samake shares the story of his father's vision for education which raised an entire family from hunger to prominence. We'll hear how his actions eliminating corruption as Mayor of a small town brought him to the attention of national leaders in Mali, and what he hopes to accomplish if elected President of Mali in April of 2012. You'll also learn what it's like for brother and sister Samake and their children to be the only members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in their country.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

'Come Let Us Adore Him,' new album for Christmas from The Lower Lights

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 03:32:47 +0000

If you can picture a jalopy crammed full of thrift-store-clothing-clad carolers singing and playing hymns with acoustic instruments as they bounce merrily along through the snow under a winter moon, maybe you can imagine the sound of The Lower Lights on their cheerful new Christmas album without even taking a listen. But do take a listen, you'll be glad you did.

Producer Scott Wiley provides the quirky recording space where all the magic happens at June Audio, in Provo, Utah. In a room filled with instruments and mics at the ready and looking like it's decorated for A Beatles Christmas all year long, he collected faithful friends and musicians to spontaneously arrange and record the holiday songs they love best over a joyful five-day period. In this week's audio interview, Scott talks about the group dynamics, the surprising reaction to unexpected fans from young to old, and ultimately why The Lower Lights do what they do. Like I said before, take a listen, you'll be glad you did.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

"Christmas," warm and cosy new music from Tricia Storey

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 03:10:25 +0000

From tender to triumphant, you'll find all the moods of the Christmas season in this beautifully produced new holiday album from Tricia Storey. It's the kind of heart-felt work of art from a skillful and experienced artist you rarely hear any more in these days of glossy arrangements, one-song downloads and whatever-will-sell retail dynamics.

Turn on the Christmas lights, sit down with a cup of hot cocoa and put on this new recording for a feast of favorites and rare finds that feel instantly like old friends. Perfect simplicity in instrumental arrangements and harmonies make this my favorite intimate holiday recording of the last several years at least. You're in good hands with Tricia Storey and you'll love hearing her insights and stories of the songs in this week's interview. She calls Christmas songs "the last socially acceptable way to bear testimony of Christ," and you'll hear plenty of joyful and inspiring music doing just that on "Christmas."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Playlist
O Come All Ye Faithful • I Saw Three Ships • Rise Up Shepherd and Follow • Good Christian Men Rejoice (harp interlude) • Who Comes This Night • Away in a Manger • What Child Is This (harp interlude) • The Holly Berry • Christmas for Cowboys • Some Children See Him • O Come O Come Emmanuel • Lo How a Rose (harp interlude) • We Will Rock You • what Songs Were Sung • Angels We Have Heard On High (harp interlude) • Christmas is a Comin' • I'll Be Home for Christmas • Silent Night • Merry Christmas Round

'Good Tidings of Great Joy' celebrates the advent of Christ's birth all December long.

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 02:52:35 +0000

One of the most surprising things about Christmas is that the earliest Christians didn't celebrate it at all—it was just too pagan. Not long thereafter though, the human propensity to observe important events began to assemble a celebration like none other.

In his new book on the advent, Eric D. Huntsman creates a near-perfect mix of history, facts, doctrine, stories and illustrations to engage readers of every age and intellectual bent. Along the way, you'll encounter wisemen, shepherds, angels, Joseph and Mary, and all the familiar elements of Christmas cast in a revealing new light. You'll also enjoy a heart-felt chapter on "Christmas with Autism," which shows one family's discovery of ways to fill the season with joy for every family member.

Click Here to follow the Huntsman's celebration of Christmas in Jerusalem this year at their blog at http://www.huntsmansintheholyland.blogspot.com

Happy Advent, from The Cricket and Seagull!

Painting life in an upper room with Lee Bennion

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 03:11:00 +0000

Renowned painter Lee Udall Bennion has been partners in life and art with her husband, potter Joe Bennion, for 35 years. This Fall the Bennions and their family open their pottery shop and painting studio for visitors and shoppers on the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving for a special sale in Spring City, Utah.

In this second of a two-part series, Lee talks about painting, becoming aware of her "style," and why her work focuses more on color, form, and feeling, than on photographic accuracy. She shares the serendipitous story of meeting her mentor, Ella Peacock, soon after moving to Spring City. In addition to everything else she's accomplished in her life, Lee Bennion may also be the only woman alive with her own combination art studio, print-making shop, and horse stable.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Pottery and Philosophy at Horseshoe Mountain Pottery

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 06:47:42 +0000

For over thirty years Joe and Lee Bennion have been husband/wife, potter/painter, river runner/camp cook and any number of other partnerships together. Every Fall the Bennions open their pottery shop and painting studio for visitors and shoppers on the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving for a special sale.

In this part one of two articles, I interviewed renowned potter Joe Bennion while he worked at the wheel at Horseshoe Mountain Pottery on Main Street in Spring City, Utah. Against the quiet creak of his foot-driven potter's wheel, you'll hear about his creative philosophy, how even pottery can honor the Lord, and how clay pieces are like people. You'll also learn about two artists who made a life for themselves in the place they love, doing what they love, and blessing the world.

(Watch for part two featuring the visual art of Lee Bennion next week.)

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

'I Will Sing!' celebrates 20 years of LDS music in Japan

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 02:21:56 +0000

This native of Osaka, Japan, had never sung in public until he joined the LDS church and was serving as a missionary in Fukuoka. In the 20 years since, he's sung and written music with artists like Janice Kapp Perry, Afterglow, Kenneth Cope, Jericho Road and other, all in Japanese.

This weekend Nobu is giving a concert in his home ward in Osaka and has released "I Will Sing!" This new CD includes many of his favorite inspirational songs sung in Japanese with the artists who created them, and he includes several meaningful originals.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

PLAYLIST
I Will Sing!
Let Me Be a Light
When Love Leads the Way
Duty to God
He Brought Me Light (w/Daniel Beck)
Like a Lighthouse
My Single Heart
Hold On, the Light Will Come
Big Tree
Never a Better Hero (w/Kenneth Cope)
Sukiyaki (w/Jericho Road)
I Believe in Christ
Arigato Okaasan
Nearer, My God, to Thee (w/Bless4)
My Friend, My Brother
Extending Light
I Will Sing! (English version)

'Hymn Creations' new album from Michael R. Hicks

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:04:00 +0000

Thousands of LDS teenagers hear and sing his vocal arrangements every summer at Especially for Youth camps, but on this new album, composer and arranger Michael R. Hicks lets the instruments do the work.

Hymn Creations runs the gamut of styles, featuring big celebratory arrangements like "Rejoice the Lord is King," and more contemplative performances like "I Need Thee Every Hour." In this interview Mike talks about his personal—and sometimes surprising—connection to the hymns he's chosen, about doing his best writing away from the piano, and why he thinks hymns are to music what the scriptures are to literature.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Playlist
Come Ye Children of the Lord
How Gentle God's Commands
Come Thou Fount
Jesus the Very Thought of Thee
Amazing Grace
Dearest Children God is Near You
Green Hill
We Thank Thee
Come Follow Me
Rejoice the Lord is King
I Need Thee Every Hour
I Know that My Redeemer LIves

'Believe. Hope. Endure." New music on CD for EFY 2011

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:48:07 +0000

From the hundreds of song submissions they receive, the producers of each year's Especially for Youth album winnow out the best for recording and sharing with the tens of thousands of youth who attend the annual summer camp.

Producer Russ Dixon talks about the process of creating this year's album, "Believe. Hope. Endure." He's found some new diamonds-in-the-rough like "The One," plus Stephanie Mabey's "He Knows Me Better," the contemporary Christian hit "What Faith Can do," and more.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

'Opening Isaiah," new on DVD from Ann Madsen

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 22:52:03 +0000

In this remarkable DVD shot on location in the Holy Land, beloved LDS scholar and educator Ann Madsen uses the land itself to introduce us to the images and poetry of Isaiah like few others could. The cinematography is often breathtaking and the computer-generated visit to Solomon's temple and the description of Isaiah's call to prophesy are worth having all by themselves.

Her decades of teaching the subject at BYU and in Jerusalem have prepared Ann Madsen in a rare way to start us on our own journey into Isaiah knowing what to look for to discover for ourselves why Christ himself said, "Great are the words of Isaiah." Indeed, it is Christ himself and his atonement we will find revealed in powerful ways in the words of this prophet among prophets.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

'Every Step,' new album from Hilary Weeks

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 05:29:00 +0000

Whether it's a monumental heartbreak or child with a mouthful of Mac 'n Cheese, songwriter Hilary Weeks seems to take her inspiration from every part of her life.

On this new album recorded in Nashville, TN, you'll hear ten new songs from tender to jubilant -- like "Living Proof" and "Past the Point," and a bonus remake of one of her classics, "All My Days."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

"The Book of Mormon has Come Forth," new music from Janice Kapp Perry

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 04:52:31 +0000

It began with one simple hymn lyric by Bonnie Hart Murray and then became an entire album once she was paired with LDS composer Janice Kapp Perry.

Bonnie and Janice tell about choosing the Book of Mormon people and events to feature in this new musical fireside and how they created the songs, including "Two Thousand Stripling Warrios," which is featured in the October Ensign and Liahona magazines.

Also, visit JaniceKappPerry.com to find out how you can get two "pass-along download cards" to share the album with family and friends for a limited time.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Healing at Mountain Meadows -- Mormonism's other 9/11

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 02:52:17 +0000

It begins like other 9/11 commemorations we’ve seen in the past, and on this day 10 years after the events of 9/11 the sounds of salutes and taps and the readings of the names is familiar.

Except these names are from a different 9/11 altogether—September 11th of 1857, one-hundred and fifty-four years ago today.

It really was September 11th, that day when a California-bound wagon train crossing Southwestern Utah was attacked by Mormon militiamen, killing approximately 120 men, women, and children, most from Arkansas. Many of the details are here in excerpts from a ceremony held on September 11, 2011 on the same site, marking the designation of this burial spot as a National Historic Landmark.

A century and a half later, signs of healing and reconciliation between the descendants of the perpetrators as well as descendants of the 17 young survivors, is an encouraging work in progress. In the commemoration ceremony conducted by Assistant Church Historian and Recorder Richard E. Turley, Jr, there are remarks from Elder Marlin K. Jensen of the First Quorum of the Seventy, himself the Church Historian, and representatives of the three groups of survivor descendants.

You'll also hear about a remarkable set of quilts which have literally brought both cloth squares and people together representing all the stakeholders, making a hands-on memorial of remembrance and forgiveness.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

September 11, 2001: a brief audio remembrance by Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 19:38:00 +0000

It was October General Conference of 2001, just a few short weeks after the events that will make September 11, 2001 live forever in our minds. President Gordon B. Hinckley stood to share his views on the new situation and express his faith in the future.

CLICK HERE to listen to this brief except, or CLICK HERE to read the entire text.

'The Forgotten Skills of Self-Sufficiency Used by the Mormon Pioneers' by Caleb Warnock

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 05:00:41 +0000

In his new book, author and journalist Caleb Warnock is likely to surprise you with the obvious — I mean, the pioneers did eat all winter, right? So what did they do differently than we do with our brief three-month garden season? Could we do it their way today? And why is cooking with "pioneer yeast" so much healthier and easier on the digestive system than today's quick-rise yeast?

In this podcast, you'll get an interesting earful of useful and practical ways of living that were basic life skills until just the last 75 years or so. Did you know carrots weren't even orange until a couple hundred years ago and that they taste best if you leave them in the ground all winter? You do now!

That's just the beginning of this week's journey into self-sufficiency.

"Abide With Me" the long-awaited hymn album from Daniel Beck

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 00:39:00 +0000

Fans of Daniel Beck's gorgeous voice will sit back and breathe a happy sigh when they hear "Abide With Me," his new album of hymns and hymn-like songs. It's just what they've been waiting for—and that includes me.

Whether it's an ear-opening blend of familiar lyrics with unexpected old hymn tunes or the tender, soaring high notes on "Gentle Savior," this is an album that speaks the longing we have for closeness and dependence on the Lord, and sings praises for his mercy. You'll enjoy hearing Beck and producer Tyler Castleton talk about the song choices and the arrangements, and why this is more than just a collection of songs for them.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Chieko Okazaki in her own words: a final interview

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 22:25:21 +0000

When I heard Chieko Okazaki had passed away earlier this month, my first glance was to my bookshelf where I saw the two origami cranes she made out of gold foil paper and presented to me during the one interview I had with her. When you hear what the symbolism of those cranes is you'll know why I've kept them and why they are so meaningful to me.

The moment she walked in the door I felt not only the unexpected power of her presence, but also a clear feeling that she was not alone; that she walked and talked with her Savior. It was something I have rarely experienced to that degree and a feeling I will never forget. In the few short joyful moments I had to interview her about her final book "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" (a book whose title could sum up her life) she gave me several gifts; two golden cranes, one cryptic little wooden sign I treasure, and an increased desire to know Jesus in the way she did and now, surely, does.

I can think of no better way to thank her for those gifts than to let you hear her tell about that relationship in her own voice.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

"Father Lehi" award to be presented to Book of Mormon geography pioneer Dr. Joseph Allen

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 03:08:44 +0000

At the upcoming Book of Mormon Archeological Foundation conference in Salt Lake City, Dr. Joseph Allen and his wife Rhoda will receive the "Father Lehi" and "Mother Sariah" awards, recognizing those who have pioneered and expanded exploration of the Book of Mormon.

While the exact geographical setting for the Book of Mormon is still an open question, Dr. Allen was one of the pioneers in researching and publishing on the possible settings beginning with his dissertation on the legendary white god, Quetzalcoatl in 1970. In this rebroadcast of an audio interview recorded several years ago, Dr. Allen talks about why he became interested in the subject and how a knowledge of Book of Mormon culture and place as drawn from the scripture itself can bless us spiritually.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

"The Work" new music from The Nashville Tribute Band

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 04:34:47 +0000

It may be the third in their series of tribute albums, but this follow-up to "Joseph" and "The Trek" has the same strong sense of mission—in fact, it's all about missions, missionaries, their parents and families, and the people they find and teach.

Nashville songwriter and producer Jason Deere shares the music and stories behind these songs, an unexpected collaboration with Michael McLean, and the goal of the Nashville Tribute Band members on this album; to help anyone of any faith understand the motivation and sacrifice of the missionaries they see on the streets around the world.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Celebrate Pioneer Day with "Songs of the Mormons," from the Library of Congress

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 20:26:00 +0000

Happy Pioneer Day!

Music has been a part of the Mormon tradition from the very beginning. Whether it was hymns or folk songs, it seems there was music created to mark most important occasions. For instance, we have the dedication of the Kirtland, Ohio, temple in 1836 to thank for the hymn "The Spirit of God" appearing in our hymnals today.

The wagon company of 1847 was hardly under way before William Clayton came up with his new version of "All is Well" which we know as "Come, Come Ye Saints." And it was just over 150 years ago when the first of many handcart companies set out for the Rocky Mountains, pushing and pulling their way across a continent to the tune of "The Handcart Song." Plus there were the humorous songs about the railroad and the bad influence it was bound to bring to the territory.

This week in celebration of Pioneer Day on July 24th—a state holiday in Utah—we feature Mormon folk songs from the Library of Congress Archive of Folk Culture. These examples were recorded in 1946 and 1947 by Austin Fife and his wife Alta on a trip covering Utah, gathering songs passed on in the folk tradition—either learned firsthand from the writer or passed down in families and communities through the generations.  

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

When do you need a professional genealogist?

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 03:02:29 +0000

With over 40 years of research and accreditations to his name, James Petty is the perfect guide to the ins and outs of using professional family research services.

The great uncle who supposedly died as a child, but turned out to have lived and had two families (unbeknownst to each other); the elusive grandfather who drifted from state to state leaving no trace of where he died and was buried; these are just two of the recent mysteries professional researcher James Petty has been called upon to solve.

With a treasure-trove of stories and experience, the founder of Heirlines.com gives us an overview of his upcoming presentations at the BYU Conference for Family History & Genealogy (July 26-29, 2011) and gives candid advice about finding the right person with the right qualifications when you need some extra help finding important family information. It's informative and entertaining.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

How YOU can benefit from the BYU Conference on Family History and Genealogy

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 00:54:15 +0000

Now in it's 43rd year, BYU's annual Conference on Family History & Genealogy has learned to respond to its attendees and provide the most useful information in the most usable way. With separate tracks over the four-day conference you can choose general knowledge ("How do I turn this computer on?") up to detailed specifics ("How do I keep these Norwegian names straight?").

John Best of BYU's Conferences and Workshops gives us an in-depth preview of the conference beginning on July 26, 2011, and points out how it can even bless those who can't attend through the yearly publication of the detailed syllabus which includes notes from every single presenter. Here's an interview you'll want to forward to your favorite family history buff.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

"Split the Difference" new music for violin/fiddle from Aaron Ashton

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 02:31:03 +0000

Aaron Ashton is one of those rare instrumental musicians equally at home with classical, folk, and jazz, and he mixes it all together on "Split the Difference," his new album of eclectic and electric tunes for fiddle and violin.

You'll hear about musical influences, mixing genres, playing in church, and mostly about the fun a bunch of talented musicians can have while pushing boundaries and just plain making music.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Michael Dowdle Rocks on "Convergence"

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 02:13:22 +0000

Most Latter-day Saints know him for his acoustic guitar work on the "Twenty-Five Beloved Hymns" series, but guitarist Michael Dowdle's first and continuing love has always been the electric guitar.

On this pedal-to-the-metal album of instrumental power trio music you'll hear why he's a favorite on YouTube with his playing videos, hear Michael's philosophy of rock and roll, and learn why this new album was sparked by a scripture in the New Testament (hint; it has to do with a candle and a bushel) and a listener from Holland. You might even develop a whole new appreciation of guitar virtuosity.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

"This Is the Christ," a new Savior-Centered album from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:34:56 +0000

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square combine their talents to create this one-of-a-kind collection of exquisite music that bears witness of the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Choir director Dr. Mack Wilberg gives us an audio tour of the new album, featuring songs never before recorded by the Choir, as well as familiar favorites. From start to finish, this inspiring and contemplative album is completely focused on the love of our Savior and his role as our Redeemer.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"17 Miracles" features Utah handcart pioneers on film

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 20 May 2011 00:46:00 +0000

Most Latter-day Saints could tell you a fact or two about the handcart companies of 1856, but few could give you the names, the humorous incidents, the brutal facts, and especially the innumerable miracles which accompanied their every step.

With the premier of "17 Miracles" only weeks away, film maker T.C. Christensen sat down with one of the actresses and a producer of the movie to share some of these stories, and why he ended up retelling a story which has been told many times before.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Josh Wright" Blends Hymns with Classical Favorites

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 06 May 2011 06:31:23 +0000

In a surprising juxtaposition of two familiar genres, award-winning LDS pianist Josh Wright blends sacred and classical favorites in a satisfying new album for piano and orchestra. In this interview, Josh describes how a mission to South Dakota turned out not to be a detour from his musical journey, but part of the path, and how he feels about dedicating so much of his time to music.

On this new recording you'll hear occasional hints of Jazz and New-Age piano, but more than anything, a respect for classical technique and repertoire played thoughtfully and at times powerfully.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

"5 Spiritual Solutions for Everyday Parenting Challenges" by Richard and Linda Eyre

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 22:06:42 +0000

While the Eyre's are internationally-known and respected family and relationship experts, they often have to hold back from sharing all they could depending on the audience and the situation, but not here. In this new book which Stephen R. Covey says "every LDS parent" should read, you'll find a wealth of reminders of all the amazing resources our Father has given us for raising his children the way he raises us.

Whether it's sibling rivalry or chores, disrespect or worries about worldly influences, nearly every challenge parents face in this all-too-physical world has simple spiritual solutions. I think you'll feast on what they Eyre's have to share, including one of my favorite-ever interview quotes, "Well, we may as well have a testimony meeting as just sit around fighting..."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

Rediscover Easter with "God So Loved the World" by Eric Huntsman

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 03:03:24 +0000

Since the day of the Western celebration of Easter changes from year to year, it's the holiday that often finds itself overshadowed in the Latter-day Saint world by General Conference, Stake Conference, or Fast Sunday observances. But Easter can come alive for you and your family through this excellent new book by BYU Associate Professor of Ancient Scripture, Eric Huntsman. As you'll hear in the interview, it's the work of years of study and thought.

"God So Loved the World" is a fascinating scriptural, visual, and doctrinal walk through the people, places and events of the amazing final week of the life of Jesus Christ. Whether you're a knowledgable scriptorian or a youngster learning from paintings and pictures, your celebration of the atonement and resurrection will be enriched by this new book, written in part by a desire on the part of the author to communicate these important events to his own family.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

"Defined by Christ," by Toni Sorenson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 22:05:47 +0000

In spite of outward smiles, many people go through the motions attending church, giving service, and nurturing families, while feeling empty, broken, doubtful, and even guilty inside. They tell themselves if they only work harder, they'd somehow earn the blessings of peace, security, and unconditional love they hunger for.

Using the scriptures, words of prophets, insightful analogies, and stories drawn from poignant personal experiences, best-selling author Toni Sorenson explains that simply by the virtue of being a child of God, each of us is already loved beyond comprehension, without boundaries or conditions. No matter what our disappointment or failure or loss may be, allowing ourselves to be defined by Christ will lift us out of the darkness and into His light.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

"Lamb of God," stirring new music by Rob Gardner

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 06:07:20 +0000

Composer Rob Gardner has never been less than ambitious in telling the story of the Restoration and the scriptures in music. With "Lamb of God," he fulfills a lifelong dream in focusing on the week of the Atonement and the many individuals from the Apostles to Pilate to the mother of Christ—those who interacted with Jesus personally and lived the despair and new-found hope of that most important week.

In this audio interview Rob talks about the writing process, recording with the London Symphony, and the thousand choices a composer makes in writing a sacred work, including deciding whether you're ready to tackle the most important subject that ever lived.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

"Three Mormon Towns," a Photographic Exhibit by Dorothea Lange

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:34:00 +0000

Diana Turnbow, Curator of Photography at the BYU Museum of Art, takes us on an audio tour of this fascinating exhibit shot by well-known photographer Dorothea Lange, which appeared in LIFE magazine in 1953.

Besides exploring small-town life in the rural towns of Gunlock, Toquerville, and St. George, the photographer and her essayist son comment on the beauty created even in isolated communities, happiness in spite of hardship, and the deep respect they share with many historians on the strength and character of these Mormon women from a time that is disappearing from living memory.

Explore the exhibit's website while you listen at 3mormontowns.byu.edu

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"New Life," by Paul Cardall reaches #1 on Billboard chart

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:43:54 +0000

After living for more than three decades with a congenital heart defect, award-winning LDS pianist Paul Cardall received a miracle. His life was saved by a last-minute heart transplant. In New Life, Paul’s newfound gratitude and humility for life pours through his fingers into inspiring new compositions perfect for meditation, contemplation, or even casual listening.

In this audio interview Paul remembers waking up after the transplant and beginning to write again for New Life, which reached number one on the Billboard New Age charts.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Glimpses Beyond Death's Door" by Brent & Wendy Top

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 21:42:00 +0000

In this audio interview BYU Religion Professor and former LDS mission president Brent Top joins his wife Wendy in sharing their years of research into near-death experiences from people of all faiths—drawing from them fascinating gospel insights.

The Tops have created much more than just a collection of interesting accounts; this is a book rich with scripture and commentary from Latter-day prophets which creates a doctrinal lens through which to interpret the variety of experiences shared from people around the world. From the amazing characteristics of our Spirit bodies to the incredible love and learning which are the hallmarks of "life on the other side," you'll find encouragement and peace concerning that next step which we all will eventually take.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Daily Scriptures via Email from LDSmusicnow.com

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 03:15:22 +0000

Besides being a rock-solid fixture in the LDS music industry, composer Greg Hansen has teamed with his tech-savvy son Jade on an innovative delivery system for music and now a free daily scripture delivery system.

The Hansens tell how you can choose which book of scriptures and how many verses you'd like to receive daily, plus muse on the future of LDS music in the day of rapid technological change.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Change in Egypt with Dr. Kirk Belnap

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 09:25:00 +0000

Dr. Kirk Belnap was with Egyptian friends at a conference in the Middle East during the recent revolution centered in Tahrir Square in Cairo. In this audio interview he shares the note he sent to friends about the joy of the moment and dismisses many of the fears of American political pundits.

You'll hear behind-the-scenes stories of BYU's Arabic language study in countries as diverse as Israel, Syria, Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco, and how he believes bridges of mutual respect can be and are being built between Mormons and Muslims.

It's history in the making, on The Cricket and Seagull...

"This Is the Christ," music by Marshall McDonald

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 06:46:40 +0000

When your task is as daunting as interpreting the life of Jesus Christ through music, it's nice to have support from fellow artists throughout the centuries. Taking inspiration from the religious paintings of Carl Bloch and drawing from the melodies of timeless hymns, LDS composer Marshall McDonald uses his gifts with piano and orchestra to create a moving and meditative narration of the life of the Master in "This is the Christ."

In this interview you'll hear Marshall describe how he tells a story through music, whether or not he thinks the young people of today "get" the hymns, and why he didn't feel ready to tackle some moments in the life of Christ without benefit of the timeless melodies found in the hymns.

"Midway to Heaven," based on the novel by Dean Hughes

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 07:50:00 +0000

Dean Hughes may be best known to readers as the author of historical fiction and teen adventure books, but this first movie version of one of his novels is based on "Midway to Heaven," a romantic story with heavenly overtones.

In this audio interview he talks about his writing habits, watching the process of "Midway to Heaven" being turned into a screenplay, and more.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Of Pigs, Pearls, and Prodigals" by John Bytheway

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 07:22:00 +0000

The objects and settings of the New Testament parables are simple, everyday items and places from the past; candlesticks, bushels, fields, and seeds—and the cast of characters is nearly as familiar; travelers, herders, rich men and poor, but the storyteller himself, the one who spun these tales which are both simple and deep, well, He was one-of-a-kind.

In this book, inspired by a visit to the Holy Land, author and speaker John Bytheway digs into the who, what, where, and why of the parables of Jesus, revealing additional meaning and application to these deceptively simple stories which have been teaching and blessing those willing to look below the surface, for centuries.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Men of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir," an interview with Mack Wilberg

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 05:50:04 +0000

While it might seem strange that cutting the Tabernacle Choir in half would result in a number-one album on the Billboard Classical charts in its first week of release, that's exactly what happened.

In this audio tour of the album, you'll hear the choir's director, Dr. Mack Wilberg, talk about the decision to make the album, the rich tradition of men's choral music, and why they chose this particular balance of classical and contemporary songs, which has struck a chord with so many listeners.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Playlist:
1.   Brethren, We Have Met to Worship
2.   Brightly Beams Our Father's Mercy
3.   The Morning Trumpet
4.   Fight the Good Fight with All Thy Might
5.   Evening (Aftonen)
6.   Land-Sighting (Landkjenning)
7.   Dance a Cachuca, Fandango, Bolero (Finale from The Gondoliers)
8.   Alleluia
9.   Pilgrim's Chorus from Tannhäuser
10. Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)
11. Hush, Little Baby
12. You Raise Me Up
13. Beautiful Savior
14. There Is a Balm in Gilead
15. He's Got the Whole World in His Hands

"He Brought Me Light" new music from Janice Kapp Perry

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 03:17:00 +0000

She may be in her 70's now, but Janice Kapp Perry is still writing and going strong with her series of hymns for choir and now "He Brought Me Light," her first album release in two years. Janice is embracing change with the inclusion of instrumental versions of the songs included in the package along with a printable .pdf version of the sheet music, and is publishing what one fellow composer called "her best song yet."

In this audio interview you'll hear excerpts of the songs, why they were created, plus details of the writing habits of this most prolific LDS composer.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

The New Mormon Battalion Historic Site a Hit With the Community and Visitors Alike

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 05:28:00 +0000

It was Brigham Young himself who said, "The Mormon Battalion will be held in honorable remembrance to the latest generation," and the newly refurbished and renamed Mormon Battalion Historic Site in Old Town San Diego is bound to keep that remembering alive for years to come.

Elder Evans, the current site Director, gives us an overview of the miracles of the Mormon Battalion and how the new site has become an integral part of historic Old Town for area 4th graders, and Sister Evans shows us the activites children and adults will experience when they visit this new state-of-the-art mixture of history and technology; talking pictures, movies, panning for gold, and feeling the earth shake during a stampede are just some of the exciting elements. While you listen, why not Click Here to visit the website at http://historicmormonbattalion.net and explore?

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

A Musical Christmas Card for 2010

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 01:54:00 +0000

A Musical Christmas Card for 2010

The story this week isn't breaking news even though it's good news. In fact, old or new don't really apply--it's timeless. I hope you'll have a quiet moment to relax and listen to The Christmas Story read from the New Testament, interwoven with timeless Christmas music.

It's read by my neighbor, Myron Hassard, affectionately known as "Haz" by all the people in our ward, who think of him as our ward Grandpa.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"This Is The Christ," by Paul Thomas Smith

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 23:30:41 +0000

In this engaging new book, author and historian Paul Thomas Smith has created my Christmas pick of the year--a text that is comfortingly familiar, yet filled with the bits of history and insight a life-long scholar can add to the narrative to make it vivid and alive in our minds and hearts; a book families and students of the scriptures can enjoy for years to come. And the illustrations drawn from the religious paintings of Carl Bloch are the perfect accompaniment to the text throughout.

Why were shepherds despised in New Testament times? Was there really no rooster that crowed three times for Peter? Was Luke wrong about the census? Listen as the author discusses all of this and more.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"The Master's Hand," a Once-in-a-Lifetime Exhibit of Carl Bloch Altar Paintings

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 22:47:35 +0000

It's been years in the making, but Dawn Pheysey, Curator of Religious Art for the BYU Museum of Art, can still hardly believe they are all displayed here together for the first time in history; five of the eight huge Carl Bloch masterpieces which have graced churches across Denmark and Sweden for over a hundred years.

In this walk-through of the exhibit we'll hear the history of the pieces, learn about the other Bloch paintings and etchings in the show which have been beloved by Latter-day Saints for half a century, and try to answer the question Danish priests have asked for years, "What is it the Utah Mormons see in these paintings?"

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Promise Me" by Richard Paul Evans

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 04:58:36 +0000

If you've ever had a New Year's Eve where all you wanted to do was warm up some enchiladas for dinner and then go to bed, then you can relate to Beth, the protagonist of "Promise Me." After a year when tragedy seems to have moved in as a permanent companion, an unusual meeting at a 7-Eleven starts a whole new relationship that will change everything in her life and present her with a choice she never could have imagined.

With 16 books in a row on the New York Times Best Seller lists, you could either play it safe and stick to a formula, or you could do what author Richard Paul Evans has done and take the risk of giving your readers something new and unexpected. The fact that "Promise Me" is currently number four on the Best-seller list seems to show it was a risk worth taking.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"My Christmas Wish," New Music from Alex Boye

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 15:46:00 +0000

Singer and entertainer Alex Boyé takes you back to your childhood (if you're old enough to remember music on vinyl) with crooner-style Christmas standards, plus puts his own stamp on "Go Tell it on the Mountain" and the original title track.

You'll love his smooth take on holiday favorites like "Christmas Time is Here" from the Charlie Brown Christmas special and the interview features the added bonus of Christmas remembrances and testimonies, including a remarkable "Christmas of Two-Hundred Haircuts."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Asher Ashkenazi - An Israeli guide talks about hosting LDS groups for 16 years

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 05:40:00 +0000

In this interview, recorded in Jerusalem, Asher Ashkenazi talks about the country he loves, why he became a tour guide, and why he thinks it's important for people of all faiths to visit the Holy Land.

You'll discover right away why most LDS groups he works with quickly name themselves "The Tribe of Asher" as they come to love Israel, and you might be surprised to hear him quote Nephi and Orson Hyde about the fulfillment of prophecy that has gathered a people and made the desert "blossom as a rose." Plus if you live in Utah, jot down the details of how you can meet Asher in person this coming January at the annual Travel Expo.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"A Celebration of Family History," new on DVD

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 03:35:43 +0000

You've got a choir, you've got an orchestra, you've got inspiring live speakers and film segments to touch any feeling heart; sounds like a celebration, and it is!

Shipley Munson, the Global Marketing Director for the LDS Church's Family History Department, shares stories from this new DVD and how it can be used in many different settings. In addition, I hope you'll listen to his final comments on the 5 main reasons people of all faiths get involved in family history research; what do you think they are?

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Holy Lands - A History of the Latter-day Saints in the Near East," with Blair Van Dyke

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 04:36:05 +0000

Blair Van Dyke, one of the authors of "Holy Lands," shares some of the inspiring events and key moments in the amazing, but mostly unknown history of the church in the lands at the center of human and religious history.

From dedicatory prayers to missionaries sent across the miles to reach a single person, we just begin to scratch the surface of the stories which show the hand of the Lord moving powerfully in modern times in these ancient places still so relevant to our lives today, and to the future of the whole human race.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Gethsemane - Peace & Hope Amidst Trials" by Todd McCabe & April Moriarty

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 08:02:12 +0000

This fourth in a series of moving, meditative hymns by violinist April Moriarty and pianist Todd McCabe completes the arc of the Savior's life begun with their previous albums "Bethlehem," "Galilee," and "Calvary."

Todd & April talk about their hymn choices, why they feel this "Gethsemane" is hopeful, rather than sorrowful, and about the amazing gift of communicating through instrumental music in general.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Book of Mormon Lands Conference 2010 in SLC

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 19:43:00 +0000

In this 8th annual Book of Mormon Lands Conference in Salt Lake City, to be held Saturday, Oct 23, 2010, scholars and researchers will discuss topics from DNA, the "Heartland Model" vs. the "Mesoamerica Model," and comparisons between the Olmecs and the Jaredites.

See the full day's schedule online at BMAF.org and listen to hear Dr. Stephen Carr discuss the various presentations and the presenters, including keynote speaker Richard Bushman on "The Gold Plates in Mormon thought and Culture," and DNA expert Ugo Perego.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Day of Rest," a New Album of Hymns from Jericho Road

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 23:47:55 +0000

Their live performances and previous recordings have made them best know for their dancing and boy-band harmonies, but Abe, Justin, Bret, and Dave--the guys of Jericho Road--have always felt there was a missing album in their discography; a collection of hymns.

With "Day of Rest," you'll hear more solo pieces than usual, learn how a college performing group set them on their current path as a group, find out who has the best/worst golf swing, and most importantly, discover why every song chosen for this new CD is a testimony of Jesus.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Escape From Rwanda," by John Yves Bizimana

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 06:05:29 +0000

John Yves Bizimana may have been one of thousands who graduated from BYU this year, but his story of survival through genocide in Rwanda, through refugee camps and orphanages in Zaire and Zimbabwe, adoption to Belgium, and finally fulfilling his dream of going to the US, is unquestionably unique.

Even through the unthinkable extremes of violence and loss of his parents, John Bizimana's story is one to inspire readers to trust the all-knowing love of God, even through discouragement and apparent loss of dreams, to work for the good of each of his children.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Live Summer's End Concert with Sam Payne and Cherie Call

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 22:51:00 +0000

We know you couldn't all just hop in the car and head over to the recent Sam Payne/Cherie Call concert, so we decided to record it live and bring you some excerpts of the stories and songs, no matter where you live!

While they've recorded and performed on their own to great success through the years, there is a little extra something good in this concert where instead of trading off numbers, they played and sang together on nearly every song. Take a listen, you'll be glad you did.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"From Heartache to Healing" with Colleen and Philip Harrison

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 02:41:00 +0000

Written from real-life experience both painful and joyful, this new book by husband and wife writing team Colleen and Phil Harrison fills a gaping need as a resource for spouses and other loved ones of those dealing with sexual addiction. In a frank and conversational style, the authors write together and then separately from their differing perspectives as man and woman, husband and wife, addict and spouse.

In chapters ranging from "What Is Addiction" and "I Didn't Ask for This!" to "Rebuilding," spouses will find spiritual advice on how to turn to the only one who can heal their hearts, how not to take on responsibility that isn't theirs, and how to know if the addict is moving forward in recovery. It's a book full of hope for those who may be feeling both helpless and hopeless.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Behind the Scenes at yourLDSradio.com with David Dalley

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 03:51:15 +0000

It only launched in November of 2008, but yourLDSradio.com has been shooting up the ratings charts for online stations since the day it went live, including reaching it's one-millionth stream.

And that's not the only surprising thing about the station; the Lord must move in mysterious ways--that's the only way production manager David Dalley can explain how a choral conducting degree, a stint as a producer for Glenn Beck, and a case of ADD all coalesced into the perfect job for him behind the scenes at yourLDSradio.com

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Stories from St. George with Doug Alder

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 08:35:05 +0000

Ever wondered how St. George, Utah, got its name? Heard the story of the "stumpy steeple" and wondered if Brother Brigham really used lightning to get his way? And just how did they use a cannon of mysterious origin to help build the temple?

You'll get the scoop on all of these stories and more, including a remarkable vision of the US founding fathers and a revelation on tithing, from historian, author, storyteller, and former Dixie College president Doug Alder.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Road Less Traveled" with David Osmond

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 06:53:33 +0000

While he's sung everything from boy band to musical theater and pop since he first became the lead singer of The Osmond Boys at age four, this is David Osmond's first inspirational album release. And what's more, it's full of contemporary Christian songs he's co-written from his own life experience.

In this interview you'll hear the background of the songs, some of the hymns from the 5-song bonus CD included in the new release, and some lessons learned from a difficult period after a diagnosis of MS seemed like it would sideline his musical plans. Plus, there's a cameo vocal appearance on one of the tracks by David's father, Alan, on a remake of a favorite Osmond song David grew up hearing.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

LDS 12-Step Conference at UVU - with Phil and Colleen Harrison

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 17:22:00 +0000

LDS Twelve-Step Conference to be Held at UVU in Orem, UT, Next Week

What is addiction? What are the Twelve Steps? How do they fit together with the gospel?

As authors of books on using the Twelve-Step process to receive healing and recovery through the atonement of Jesus Christ, and as recovering addicts themselves, Phil and Colleen Harrison are the perfect guides to share the hope available to sufferers of addiction everywhere. In a candid and informative interview, you'll learn about the free Twelve-Step Conference to be held at UVU on August 13th and 14th of this year, plus find out about ongoing resources at Heart-t-Heart.org. That's where you can for a .pdf flier of the conference schedule and topics.

Whether you're interested for yourself or a loved one, whether you struggle with an addiction or compulsion or not, there is much here to learn about humility, about how closely the Lord walks with us in our weaknesses, and what it really means to have "weak things become strong," as the Lord promises in the book of Ether.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Meridian 3.0" with the Publisher and Editor, Scot and Maurine Proctor

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:51:33 +0000

Looking at the world-wide reach of Meridian Magazine today, it's hard to imagine that the publishers were initially disappointed to be an online rather than a print publication, but "the times, they are a changin'" and today they couldn't be happier to be a premier online source for news and inspiration for Latter-day Saints around the globe.

From more space devoted to photography, new mini-blogs, to sections and author pages, the new Meridian has a way to be more useful and appealing to you than ever. You'll hear the excitement in their voices as Scot and Maurine Proctor unveil the new features and share their passion for posting pictures and stories from Saints around the world in all cultures and walks of life, helping us all feel that we are united in a cause greater than ourselves and our own little worlds.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Stories From the Life of Porter Rockwell" by John W. Rockwell & Jerry Borrowman

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 04:28:07 +0000

Some called him a Guardian Angel, others (mostly those who'd looked down the barrel of his gun) called him The Angel of Death. He was blessed by the prophet that he'd never be killed by bullet or blade and as a token of that promise he was told never to cut his hair. Word of that promise made him a Western legend, and plenty of outlaws put it to the test, but none successfully.

In the annals of LDS church history, perhaps no one but Joseph Smith himself has been cause for so much speculation and so many fascinating stories, but authors Jerry Borrowman and John W. Rockwell (Porter's great-great-grandson) sift through the legends for the facts—which even without embellishment somehow still leave us scratching our heads wondering who this boyhood friend of Joseph's, from the neighboring farm in Palmyra, really was.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

BYU Virtual Tours - with John Starrs and John Livingstone

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 04:04:00 +0000

BYU Church History professor John Livingstone had long had a vision of sharing the history and sites of the Restoration with people everywhere on the globe, and when videographer John Starrs moved into his ward it seemed that both the right people and the right technologies were coming together to make it happen.

Along with their well-known co-writers Jeffrey Marsh, Lloyd Newell, Craig James Ostler, and David Whitchurch, they've now released "Salt Lake City, Ensign to the Nations" in book form, on DVD, have a walking-tour guidebook for Salt Lake City, and perhaps most far-reaching, the new BYU Virtual Tours website with new information added each week. You can even go online and visit http://virtualtours.byu.edu while you hear our guests explain the origins and challenges of the project, tell of the prestigious award their creation recently won, and, most importantly, talk about the church history we are each called to be part of today.

That's the week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Arnold Friberg's Book of Mormon Paintings Legacy

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 06:41:00 +0000

Richard G. Oman's enthusiasm for and understanding of Arnold Friberg's now-iconic Book of Mormon paintings makes him the perfect person to walk us through these larger-than-life images most of us have grown up with. They are now on permanent display in the LDS Church Conference Center in Salt Lake City, meaning you can see them for free year 'round and even line up your own little stripling warriors for a photo op in front of Captain Moroni--at least that's what one family was doing the morning I visited the gallery.

In addition, brother Oman speaks about how art can teach us through our eyes, what Friberg was trying to say with the moments he chose to illustrate, the impact these dozen-or-so images have had around the world since being published in many versions of the Book of Mormon, and why, in spite of his other acclaim, these might be Friberg's most lasting legacy.

Click Here to view the images as you listen. Please be reminded that they are owned by the LDS Church, appear here as a courtesy, and may only be used for non-commerical, personal purposes.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

RootsMagicEssentials - The free family history program certified for FamilySearch

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 18:21:00 +0000

Lots of folks who want to get started on their family history have the same hold up; how do they choose between computer software options they've never tried? Now Bruce Buzbee, President of RootsMagic, has made it easy to discover--for free--if their family history program is right for you.

Bruce tells how you can download RootsMagic Essentials for free. After that, you can use it for an unlimited time, it has unlimited space for names and information, and there are free blogs, user groups, and podcasts to help get you going and get you unstuck when you think you've hit one of those unsolvable family history mysteries.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Mormons and Yoga with LeAnne Tolley

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 04:20:00 +0000

In 1 Thessalonians 5, the same chapter where Paul calls us to be "children of the light," he tells us to "prove all things; hold fast that which is good." For many in today's stressful, get-it-all-done Western society, the practice of Yoga is proving to be a good thing.

LeAnne Tolley, a Latter-day Saint and Certified Yoga Teacher, talks about the benefits of developing the mind-body-spirit connection, why many modern girls and women are taught hatred of their bodies, and how the practice of Yoga can be compatible with the principles of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"The Life of Christ" - Paintings by James Tissot

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 22:13:00 +0000

Though he didn't begin his biblical works until the last 10 years of his life, French painter James Tissot managed to complete more than 700 paintings of the New Testament and the Old Testament--a project he was still engaged in at the time of his death.

Rita Wright from the BYU Museum of Art is passionate about these paintings and points out highlights from the New Testament collection opening today at the Museum and running through January 9, 2011, sprinkling in observations about Tissot's life, way of working, details of the paintings themselves, and the surprising reaction to their Paris premiere among both the clergy and the elite. Plus, an unexpected "prophetic" connection to an edition of Tissot's illustrated bible used by two different LDS Church presidents.

Don't forget to Click Here to view the paintings discussed!

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Gospel Library - New iPhone App from the LDS Church

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:23:01 +0000

It works now for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch, but soon users of many different mobile devices will have Gospel Library, an official application from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in their pocket and at their finger tips; letting them choose and download their own library of gospel resources as well as mark and annotate them.

Joel Dehlin, the Chief Information Officer of the LDS Church and John Edwards, over Emerging Technologies and Social Networking for the Church, talk about the new features in this study app, the new LDS.org website (which you can try online now), and Mobile Member--a new application coming out very soon. Plus, finding the proper place for technology in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and how best to serve the needs of church members world-wide.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Song of Redeeming Love," by Dallyn Vail Bayles

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 28 May 2010 05:59:00 +0000

Whether he's toured with "Les Mis" or his current gig in "Phantom of the Opera," Dallyn Bayles always seems to find a connection with redemption in his characters. It isn't much of a stretch at all though to find the themes of love and redemption in the life of the Savior, or in this album celebrating his atonement and the effect he has on each of us personally.

On a paternity break from "Phantom," (he and his wife Rachel just welcomed their fourth child) Dallyn talks about new versions of traditional favorites like "Come Thou Fount" and "Amazing Grace," and the more contemporary pieces he's sprinkled in, like "He'll Find a Way" and "Come Harvest Time." It's great listening for fans of rich orchestration and a trained voice.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Take the Mountain Down" now on CD, DVD, and on BYU-TV

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 21 May 2010 07:08:00 +0000

The idea for this show began over 40 years ago when Don Oscarson (writer of the original Nauvoo Pageant) was driving through Cajun country in Louisiana listening to the blues, and it finally made it onstage when he matched it up with writers Marvin Payne and Steven Kapp Perry.

This engaging, new retelling of the timeless parable of the Prodigal Son is set in Kentucky coal country and features an imaginative staging of the classic tale featuring 6 show-stopping performers who seamlessly trade off roles and instruments like they were born to do it. "Take The Mountain Down" premiered live at BYU Education Week two years ago which led to a recent taping by BYU Broadcasting. Don't miss it on BYU-TV Tues, May 25th, at 8 PM Mountain Time, and the following Saturday, the 29th, at 9 PM. Also available now on CD and DVD at MarvinPayne.com

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Light in the Wilderness - Explorations in the Spiritual Life" by M. Catherine Thomas

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 14 May 2010 04:58:15 +0000

Because the gospel is a constant in so many of our lives, we may hear certain words and concepts mentioned so frequently that we think we "get them," or have a complete understanding. One of the beauties of "Light in the Wilderness, Explorations in the Spiritual Life" is the way it strips away that "veil of familiarity" and beckons us to new dimensions of enlightenment concerning even the most basic concepts of God, nature, and what we are made of.

In this wide-ranging discussion, Catherine Thomas invites fellow seekers to search behind familiar gospel words and concepts to find the spiritual realities they represent. From sacrifice to joy, this is a journey of increasing peace and faith in the God who made us and invites us to expand our minds and spirits and become like him.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Beautiful Dawn" by Mercy River

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 07 May 2010 03:40:00 +0000

"Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" in 5/4 time? Yes, and it works. Originals, hymns, and even a primary song all mixed together? yes, and it works. What really works is the 3-part of blend of the voices and personalities of Soni, Brooke, and Whitney, the three young mothers who make up Mercy River.

Coming into their own on their second album release, you'll hear about choosing songs, the impact of meeting LDS sisters at Time Out for Women events around the country, and why this particular kind of music feels just right for Mercy River.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Wondrous Love," from the BYU Women's Chorus

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 06:11:00 +0000

From folk to love song, from praise of nature to praise of the God who made it, "Wondrous Love," the first album release by the BYU Women's Chorus is full of delights and surprises. There's a bit of Irish, a bit of Americana, and several beautiful hymn arrangements, including some familiar religious lyrics set to the tune of a very recognizable folk song.

In this edition, Jean Applonie, BYU music professor and the director of the group, talks about choosing voices, choosing the music, and the mission of the BYU Women's Chorus.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Masterpiece: The Best of Julie de Azevedo"

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 06:10:00 +0000

Over the past 25 years, Julie de Azevedo has written, produced, and performed some of the most popular songs in the LDS music industry. Masterpiece, her new best-of collection, features the favorites which have connected with people around the world, plus a couple of new tunes, including "God's Signature," which are sure to bring a smile to anyone who has some life experience under their belt.

In this edition Julie talks about integrating and finding balance between the different parts of her life, why she writes what she does, and the common theme she's discovered between being a wife, a mother, a musician, a therapist, and how she's finally bringing it all together.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Mormons and the New Media

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 22:24:00 +0000

Like lots of the people on the planet, Latter-day Saints find themselves swimming in more and more new technology every year. Just consider whether you send hand-written letters or use email these days? Do you post family pictures on Picasa or Flickr and send links to your family? Do you update your Facebook or MySpace page when someone gets a mission call, has a new baby, or just wants to post video of little Hannah's first violin recital?

Twenty years ago if someone had talked to me about Podcasting, Blogging, and YouTube, I might have thought they were talking about farming, bodily functions, and my own personal cryogenic chamber. These days, those words have not only become a daily part of how many of us communicate, get our news and entertainment and share what we think is important, they've also shown up in addresses by General Authorities. And of course there are also some technologies useful to the Saints in particular; like the new Gospel Library app for iPhone, the FamilySearch website, and streaming General Conference on-demand, when it's most convenient for us to listen.

In this edition, we're asking about the technologies YOU use and HOW you use them. In the future we'll be delving deeper into how these can both help us and hurt us, and where to draw the line. For today though, please just take a listen, think about the new technologies which have become part of your everyday life, then send us an email to help direct where this podcast (there's one of those words again) starts exploring. Or, just leave a comment right here on this blog.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"The Eternal Christ, Truman Madsen in the Holy Land

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 03:53:00 +0000

Truman Madsen knew the scriptural history of the Holy Land as few knew it, and for his final visit before his death in 2009, he stood in the places he loved and taught from his heart, sharing a lifetime of scholarship and testimony. Now released on DVD, this series of 8 lectures on 4 DVDs is a spiritual marvel, giving a wider audience access to his invaluable and intimate teaching.

In this edition, Truman's wife Ann--herself a lecturer on Isaiah and other subjects at BYU--tells of creating this new resource for teachers and families everywhere, of favorite moments in places both sacred and secular, and of Truman's powerful final testimony of Jesus Christ, permeating every moment of this lecture series of a lifetime.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"I Need Thee Every Hour" by David P. Vandagriff

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 06:16:00 +0000

"The Atonement of Jesus Christ is not only a gift for our last breath or the last day of our lives, it is also for every day of our lives, and breath of our lives." So says author and former LDS bishop David Vandagriff.

With vivid examples and specific experiences, the writer tells of learning to apply the Atonement not only to the effects of sin, but to undeserved suffering, prayer, despair, and ev en the good times in life.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Then Sings My Soul," by Jenny Oaks Baker

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 04:49:00 +0000

She got her Masters at Juilliard and has played everything from the classics as first violinist with the National Symphony to her impressive solo recordings of great movie themes, but Jenny Oaks Baker feels closest to her Heavenly Father when performing and listening to sacred music.

While on a concert visit to Salt Lake City, this virtuoso violinist talks about her new collaboration with Emmy Award-winning composer Sam Cardon, and her search for both the peaceful and the epic in timeless themes and hymns like "How Great Thou Art," "All Creatures of Our God and King," and "Finlandia."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"The Time-Starved Family," by DeAnne Flynn

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 02:48:00 +0000

As a mother of seven, DeAnne Flynn knows well the challenge of staying balanced in a world where busier seems to be equated with better. In her book, The Time-Starved Family, Helping Overloaded Families Focus on What Matters Most, the author shares 16 practical ideas for breaking out of the hectic, stressful, over-scheduled way of living.

From dumping the guilt and comparing to learning when to say "no," DeAnne shares ways to increase and improve the time your family has together by focusing on what's most important.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Trust God No Matter What!" by Darla Isackson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 03:17:00 +0000

Darla Isackson knows her topic by heart because she has lived it—those moments which surprise us, frustrate us, break our hearts, and leave us reeling, wondering if everything we believe is really true.

Organized by topic and experience, the author shares her personal experience and a wealth of comfort from scripture and modern prophets to testify that God is trustworthy in all things whether we are dealing with divorce, depression, death, anger, the need to forgive, or any of the other mortal experiences which can be our opportunity to truly take the Lord's hand in a new and stronger way.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Sunday Morning Classics" with Ted Hinckley

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 05:35:00 +0000

How to expose your family—and yourself—to the classics of the Western musical tradition? One way is the new "Sunday Morning Classics" series featuring inspired music from some of the world's greatest composers. Including Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Handel, and Scarlatti (and the list--or should I say "Liszt?"--goes on) you'll hear everything from solo piano and string quartet to full-blown orchestral pieces, all carefully chosen to fit the peaceful mood of a Sunday morning.

In this edition, long-time film music producer Ted Hinckley talks about choosing the pieces, creating the state-of-the-art High Definition recordings in Prague, and the reactions he's received to the initial releases of this new series.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Mercyville," New Release from Afterglow

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 07:01:00 +0000

Long-time favorite duo Afterglow returns with Mercyville, a collection of new original songs written to celebrate the joys and challenges of life. Messages including serving others, dealing with loss, experiencing joy and finding our way through life's trials.

In this edition Joel McCausland and Kevin Peay talk about 30 years of singing, the songs they wrote for this first new studio album in a decade, and—their voices strong as ever—show why Afterglow is the #1 LDS vocal group of all time.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Heavensong" with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir's Mack Wilberg

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 03:39:00 +0000

The Buffalo News review says, "Anyone in need of a breather might like to give this a try. It's the real deal."

Heavensong features beloved classical selections that will lift and transport you through a journey of light and hope. From new Mack Wilberg compositions to familiar melodies to “The Prayer,” this music is perfect for quiet contemplation.

In this edition, choir director Mack Wilberg takes us on an audio tour of these peaceful classics, along with several new choir favorites, shares the story behind recording "The Prayer" with David Foster, and much more.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Healing Hands for Haiti -- How You Can Help

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 06:15:00 +0000

It began with an online plea for 150 Latter-day Saint volunteers with expertise in medicine, construction, and the French/Creole languages, all to fly to Haiti and help with relief and rebuilding after the massive earthquake. Within hours emails and applications began pouring in by the thousands.

In this edition you'll hear interviews and excerpts from the pre-flight meeting with Haitians, returned missionaries, Steve Studdert—the operation director, and other LDS members who will be reporting the efforts of this non-official group of church members giving their best to be anxiously engaged in helping the orphans, the injured, and the hungry in Haiti.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

LDSmusicnow.com with Greg Hansen and Jade Hansen

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 04:09:00 +0000

You hear the song and want it, but not the whole CD; the answer? Downloadble .mp3 files of individual songs. You want your choir to sing the song but can't wait two weeks for shipping; the answer? Downloadable printable .pdf files of copyright-legal sheet music.

Composer/Arranger/Producer Greg Hansen and his tech-savvy son Jade have combined the .mp3s and the .pdfs into LDSmusicnow.com, a site which sends out a free download a week, has a 24/7 radio option, and more. Plus, you'll thrill to hear about the how-to elements of President Kimball's gospel vision of the arts beginning to come to pass through new technology.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"The 3 Word Journal" by Randal A. Wright

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 07:20:00 +0000

Forget that most famous first-page diary entry on January 1st where you try to sum up the entire previous year. Instead, listen as noted EFY and Education Week speaker Randal Wright teaches you The 3 Word Journal technique, and get started accessing your own mind and your own experiences in a simple, yet profoundly meaningful way.

You'll be surprised what memories and events just a few words can trigger and how easy it is to "3 Word" them for later expansion. You'll soon have a catalogue of instantly accessible life experiences which point the way to what the Lord has prepared you for in this life and be able to leave a legacy of personal learning to bless your family for generations.

(I'm not kidding when I say this is one of the most fascinating and useful interviews I've conducted and I really wish I could make everyone sit down and listen for 20 minutes, then share it with a friend.)

:-)

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

The New FamilySearch with Ron Tanner

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 05:37:00 +0000

Now accessible in nearly every temple district, the LDS Church's New FamilySearch program puts research resources at your fingertips in ways only dreamed of even a few decades ago, and prevents the duplication of effort which has bogged down the work in the past.

Product Manager Ron Tanner talks about how to log on, new advances in the online program, the realization of an amazing visionary statement from 1947, why you're never too old to learn to use the New FamilySearch, and why it's changing the atmosphere in temples everywhere.

That's th

"Achieving Your Life Mission" by Randal A. Wright

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 01:15:00 +0000

Most Latter-day Saints can answer the "Why are we here?" question from childhood, but it can be a bit trickier to find the answer to "Why am I here?" Institute instructor, author, and EFY and Education Week speaker Randal A. Wright worries about that, "Because," he says, the youth we are retaining in the church "are the ones who really know who they are," while we lose many of the others.

In this interview Dr. Wright talks about Patriarchal Blessings, how the Lord reveals things to us over time, using both our strengths and our weaknesses as clues, and why we are never to old to ask the Lord, "What's next for me?"

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"This Night," Christmas Music from Wayne Burton

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 06:44:00 +0000

Though most of his patients in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada call him Dr. Burton, fans of his music just call him Wayne.

On his first Christmas release, Wayne Burton shares originals like "This Night," and "One Life," (which you can also find on YouTube.com with videos) and classics like "Angels We Have Heard on High," and "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day," supported by artists like Jenny Frogley, Cherie Call, Alex Boyé, and Justin Smith.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"A Day Like No Other," by Scot Facer Proctor

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 03:45:00 +0000

In over 40 trips to The Sacred Grove both on his own and with tour groups, author and photographer Scot Proctor has seen the Smith Farm in every light and every season, but there was one day, early in the morning, which truly was a day like no other. The images captured on that magical day have now found their way into a book for both children and adults which is as close to a journey to the grove with young Joseph Smith as you can have, short of going there yourself.

Scot Proctor talks about deciding what to do with the gift of that day's photographs, the unique opportunity to publish the book simultaneously in eleven different languages, and about the questions and content included in the text itself.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Christmas Once Again" by Hilary Weeks

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 05:27:00 +0000

It's been seven years since her last holiday album, and with Christmas Once Again Hilary Weeks blends the true meaning of the holiday with songs of family and fun.

From a unique new counterpoint to Silent Night, to favorites like O Come All Ye Faithful and Do You Hear What I Hear, you'll find music just right for decorating the tree, wrapping presents, or simply sitting and contemplating the wonder of our Savior born as a child.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Go Without Knowing" with One Clear Voice

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:27:00 +0000

When four unique and recognizable voices suddenly blend into something altogether new, One Clear Voice is at their musically satisfying best. In sharing music from their sophomore release, the four women of One Clear Voice talk about that surprising blend, their own sense of mission, and what matters most in their lives.

On "Go Without Knowing," you'll hear tender moments like "Gratitude," and "Children Will Listen," the joy of "Dance in the Rain," and "How You Live," and the fun of an a cappella "I Can See Clearly Now," showing the versatility of experienced performers who sound just as good live as they do in the studio, and who can bring it back to center and break your heart with the simplicity of "Jesus Wept."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Another Witness," with Janice Kapp Perry & Gary Kapp

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 23:13:00 +0000

For decades, people have been drawn to the inspiring music of Janice Kapp Perry and the sacred art of her brother Gary Kapp. Now, for the first time, the pair have combined their talents to present a stirring witness of the Savior through music and art with a book containing twenty-three full-color paintings and twenty-five original hymns and songs.

Janice and Gary talk about this tribute to the ancient people of the Book of Mormon, their own artistic beginnings, and a few of their spiritual experiences in the writing and painting of the works featured in "Another Witness—Music and Art that Testify of Christ."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Emergency Food in a Nutshell" with Lisa Harkness & Leslie Probert

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 23:42:00 +0000

Once upon a time, two slightly frustrated neighbors began compiling all the useful food storage and food preparation info they could find into one place, which soon became the book they'd always wished for, but never found. Now in it's seventh printing, this eminently practical and helpful book has become many people's food storage "Bible."

In "Emergency Food in a Nutshell," authors Lisa Harkness and Leslie Probert share the "why," the "how," and especially the "useful" and the "simple," about storing, cooking, and enjoying emergency food, and, perhaps best of all, the spiritual motivation and blessings for those who are willing to be prepared.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Grace" by Cherie Call

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:31:00 +0000

When an established singer/songwriter puts out a new album of top-notch songs, it does tend to make a little splash. And in this case, the whole collection is about the little splashes of grace that ripple outward forever in our lives.

From the almost comical images of "Grace is Amazing" to "Leave it Like it Is," Cherie Call makes sure you get a full dose of the cheery and the teary, and rejoices in the comfort and the lessons to be found in the down-to-earth, every-day details of our lives.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Santa Biblia" the Audio Version with Omar Canals

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 03:54:00 +0000

Years in the making, the new print publication of "Santa Biblia," or the Holy Bible, by the LDS Church, now has an audio counterpart.

Omar Canals, the Executive Producer for the project and one of the readers, recounts the effort to capture the Spirit in the recordings, the differences between English and Spanish, and how these new audio recordings can bless members around the world.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Types and Shadows: Intimations of Divinity" with Dawn Pheysey

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 21:13:00 +0000

In her 17 years as Curator of Religious Art at BYU's Museum of Art, Dawn Pheysey has seen the Religious collection grow in amazing and often miraculous ways.

Join us for a walk-through and talk-through of "Types and Shadows" and learn how both in art and in life, everything testifies of Christ. Also, follow the link on the Cricket and Seagull page to find images of the art and a viewable .pdf file of the beautiful exhibition booklet, and follow along with us. Also, at the end of the interview, a special musical feature, "Sacraments & Symbols."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

A Visit to Israel, with Kay Godfrey

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 23:42:00 +0000

While his academic credentials make him a well-qualified guide in the Near East, it's the scriptural connections he makes with the places and the people that bring the past to life for archeologist and anthropologist Kay Godfrey.

In this interview he describes some of his favorite sites and why he loves sharing them with tour groups, addresses the safety concerns some have, and tells why now, of all times, is the time to visit Israel and experience life as it was lived 2,000 years ago--the same way many of the present-day residents still live.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

GenerationMaps.com with Janet Hovorka

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 02:12:00 +0000

Even though she was a librarian, Janet Hovorka's first reaction to organizing the thousands of family history names and records she inherited, was to run and hide. It was only after she made an emotional connection through a piece of heirloom furniture that her mind and heart began to open up to the blessings of making these people part of her life.

And what blessings are those? Janet talks to seminars all over the country about how the information comes to you, once you begin, how putting your family history on the wall where you can see it can get you through tough times, and how you can let go of being overwhelmed and let the "One Thing" you can do present itself.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Tender Mercies" with Steven Sharp Nelson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:32:00 +0000

The cello, according to many folks, is the instrument most like the human voice. Perhaps that's why this album of stand-out inspirational melodies captures both the ear and the heart. And the engaging performance style of the artist may be one of the reasons he has one of hottest instrumental videos currently playing on YouTube. (in fact, we’ll attach a little extra audio feature about that at the end of the interview...)

Whether he's riffing over Celtic percussion or soloing over the China Philharmonic Orchestra, cellist Steven Sharp Nelson explores the full range of the instrument with tender arrangements of "Lead Kindly Light" and "Gabriel's Oboe," and exciting cinematic versions of "Come, Come Ye Saints" and "Praise to the Man." In between you'll hear a delightful Ukulele/Cello duet on "Simple Gifts" and other imaginative takes on these musical favorites.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Sacred Piano" with Paul Cardall

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 05:59:00 +0000

With over 73 weeks on Billboard's best-selling New Age music charts, Paul Cardall's previous CD is going to have to slide over a bit to make room for this new release—"Sacred Piano," a 15-year retrospective of his most intimate and spiritual recordings.

While he was at Primary Children's Medical Center earlier this week for a periodic "tune up" required of patients on the heart transplant waiting list, we met and talked about Paul's philosophy for instrumental music, the inspiration behind some of the hymn arrangements and the 3 new pieces included, and what keeps him hopeful and happy in the face of challenges.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Be Thou An Example- EFY 2009" with Peter Breinholt

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 07:19:00 +0000

Every year the new EFY album is kept under wraps and only released to Especially for Youth participants--until the end of the summer that is. That time is now and album co-producer Peter Breinholt introduces us to the songs and the artists who celebrate this year's theme from 1 Timothy 4:12.

You'll find insights into the creative process, songwriting and song choosing, and even a few last minute changes in the studio which came together to make this new CD a collection of established artists and new-comers.

That's this week on The Cri cket and Seagull...

"The Undaunted--The Miracle of the Hole-In-The-Rock Pioneers" by Gerald Lund

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 03:13:00 +0000

From the mining towns of Yorkshire, England to Hole-in-the-Rock in Southeastern Utah, author Gerald Lund weaves the tale of David Draper together with real-life pioneer heroes like Jens Nielsen and Silas Smith to tell the little-known story of an amazing group of Western settlers called to do the impossible.

In this wide-ranging interview, author Lund talks about on-site research, developing believable characters, and even the gift of insomnia—all part of the process of writing his 800-plus page new work of historical fiction.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"I Hate it When Exercise is the Answer," by Emily Watts

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 03:52:00 +0000

It seems wherever you look for advice, you'll find that exercise is the prescription for just about every ill, from diabetes to heart disease to depression to (ironically) fatigue.

Luckily, exercise bikes, dumbbells, and spandex suits are not needed in these 31 exercises to help keep our spirits in shape. I Hate It When Exercise Is the Answer is filled with funny, easy-to-relate-to stories that also come with lessons, such as: how "unsightly socklines" can help us keep it real, why you can't say yes when your heart says no, and how regrets from the past can actually be pointing to something liberating. In her lighthearted and conversational style, author Emily Watts offers ideas to improve our spiritual and emotional fitness.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Most Requested" with Cherie Call

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 07:18:00 +0000

Can you fill in the blanks? LDS Singer/songwriter Cherie Call looks and sounds like she was born holding a guitar, so it's surprising she didn't even learn to play it until ____. Her best-known song was written about a ride on an ____, and one of her personal favorites was inspired by her husband's discovery that, among other things, Heavenly Father is really good at being a ____ _____.

You can find all of that and more in this interview with the delightful Cherie Call. With this album she inaugurates the new "Most Requested" series from Deseret Book, plus she grabs a guitar and gives us an exclusive in-studio preview of two new songs from her upcoming CD "Grace," slated for a Fall release. It's all great musical and storytelling fun.

That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

"Mormon Channel" with Rob Boshard

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 05:12:00 +0000

Online and satellite radio are coming of age as people around the globe are figuring out how to listen and discovering what’s available.

Now Mormon Channel makes its debut as the new radio service from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In this edition Program Manager Rob Boshard talks about the beginnings of the new station, how content is developed, how the church station is different from commercial radio, and the various ways you can listen—both now, and in the future.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"The Three Pillars of Zion" with Larry Barkdull

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 05:56:00 +0000

I'm sure I can't be only one who has ever wished for just one day in the City of Enoch, or in any of the other short-lived Zion societies we find in the scriptures, but if Zion is really a state of the heart, of a relationship, or even of a society, then I can "dwell in Zion" anytime and anywhere I am ready to open my heart and let it in.

In his ground-breaking new 5-book series, "The Three Pillars of Zion," Larry Barkdull walks us through years of study and personal searching, resulting in one of the most definitive and useful books ever wr itten on the subject.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

The Declaration of Independence - with Grant Beckwith

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 18:20:00 +0000

Have you ever heard the "Bullet-Proof Washington" story? Known about the spiritual epiphany of young John Adams? If not, you're not alone -- they're omitted from nearly all school texts today even though they once were common knowledge.

If you've missed out on those stories, like I had, if you've wondered where the idea of "separation of church and state" came from, or wondered what the writers of the Declaration of Independence really meant when they speak of "the God of Nature," then you'll enjoy this interview with lawyer and educator Grant Beckwith.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

The Mormon Miracle Pageant - with Doug Barton

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:16:00 +0000

The Mormon Miracle Pageant takes place on a temple hill chosen by prophecy, and the yearly gathering of thousands on those grounds was foreseen by a former temple president more than a decade before the presentation was conceived. It's an old-style pageant with touches of melodrama in the script and hints of Cecil B. de Mille in the music and mass movement, all performed by a cast of nearly a thousand which can completely fill the dramatic hillside stage.

Join Manti, Utah, native and pageant President Doug Barton for behind-the-scenes information and the spiritual history of The Mormon Miracle pageant, which plays to over 90,000 viewers each June.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

The New LDS Church History Library - With Christine Cox

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 21:48:00 +0000

In her 30 plus years at the LDS Church History Library, Christine Cox has had the chance to explore not only the most famous items in the collection, but also to learn about her own family's history and even to contribute some history of her own.

With the public open house for the new building coming up on June 12th and 13th, Christine describes the history of the Church's record-keeping, what you'll see when you visit, the wide variety of resources soon to be available to professional researcher and layman alike, and why history is about connecting with the people, not just the facts.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Love That Lasts," by Gary and Joy Lundberg

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 29 May 2009 01:28:00 +0000

While it's no secret that nearly every couple has some degree of difficulty and adjustment in their marriage relationship, the solutions to those challenges often seem elusive and out of reach. Drawing on their expertise as a marriage counselor and as marriage workshop leaders, Gary and Joy Lundberg reveal what they call "fourteen secrets every spouse should know to keep marriage joyful, passionate, and fulfilling.

Covering everything from finances and parenting to communication and intimacy, the Lundbergs address the differing needs of men and women with sensitive, real istic, and easy-to-understand examples that can increase the likelihood of making any marriage a Love That Lasts.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Guitar Hymns" by Ryan Tilby

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 22 May 2009 07:38:00 +0000

He started out on Banjo and has worked his way through all kinds of stringed instruments--including the bass he plays on tour with Ryan Shupe and the Rubber Band, but Ryan Tilby feels he's found a new kind of voice in the acoustic guitar.

On "Guitar Hymns," his new CD of reverent hymn solos, he combines arrangements begun as a missionary in Madrid, Spain, on a hand-made classical guitar (you can hear that guitar on this CD), with more recent interpretations. It's as simple and basic as can be--meaning no overdubs--just like Ryan Tilby walked into your home, sat down, and played a lit tle personal concert for you.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull..

"Why? Powerful Answers and Practical Reasons for Living LDS Standards"

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 15 May 2009 05:21:00 +0000

Most parents agree that "Why?" is one of the first and most-asked questions by their children and while there are times when "Because the Lord said so" really is the reason, there is power when we can also supply a "Why."

From their years of teaching youth and young adults in the church, authors and EFY speakers John Hilton III and Anthony Sweat have compiled many of the most important answers for LDS youth 12-18 into one book. With quotes from Church leaders, real-life stories, and colorful graphics, this is a book you can read even a bite-sized chunk at a time and still get great answers to the "Why" of dating, friends, media, commandments, fasting, etc.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"The Fading Flower" by Mahonri Stewart

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 08 May 2009 05:04:00 +0000

For most members of the LDS church, David Hyrum Smith, the youngest of Joseph and Emma Smith's children—born after Joseph's martyrdom—is an unknown. Given by nature to painting and poetry, he was in some ways the most unprepared of the Smith children for the eventual tug-of-war between various Mormon factions hoping to claim the Smith legacy in the years after the main body of the saints moved West.

In "The Fading Flower," his new work for the stage premiering this month, Latter-day Saint playwright Mahonri Stewart explores a fascinating part of the Smith family history during the time of David's courtship and Emma's struggles to protect and hold together her maturing family. Mahonri and actress Kathryn Laycock Little, who plays Emma Smith, talk about the play, the characters, and share excerpts recorded during rehearsal.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Rescuing Wayward Children" by Larry Barkdull

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 01 May 2009 02:52:00 +0000

Does anything hurt more than seeing the child you love and have taught making choices you know will bring them spiritual pain? If your child has gone astray, perhaps there is some comfort in knowing you are not alone! In fact, you are in good company. Some of the best parents who have ever lived have struggled with wayward children.

Author Larry Barkdull talks about the unique conditions that affect latter-day parenting and shares the gospel tools that that infuse parents with spiritual power, and gives hope to all those whose loved ones have wandered.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"A Mother's Book of Secrets" with Linda Eyre & Shawni Eyre Pothier

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 04:49:00 +0000

Whether it's dinnertime, dealing with arguments, chores, having "the talk," or any other part of family life, every mother has discovered a few little secrets—ways of doing things that make everything a little smoother, more enjoyable, or even possible!

World-renowned family expert Linda Eyre is joined by her daughter Shawni Eyre Pothier, herself a mother of 5, to share those little bits of wisdom and know-how that can transform a moment, a day, even the life of a family. In "A Mother's Book of Secrets," readers will find these useful nuggets organized into bite-sized pieces under 5 main headings. Plus, there's even a way you can share your own "secrets" and add to the wisdom of the world of mothering.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Contentment—Inspiring Insights for LDS Mothers," by Maria Covey Cole

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 04:17:00 +0000

Maria Covey Cole had always hoped to be a mother, even when she was earning degrees and teaching on the University level; so why, when this dream came true, did she find herself feeling bored, isolated, and unsatisfied?

With compassion born of experience, Maria shares her inspiring journey to finding contentment in one of the most challenging and rewarding roles on earth. From entrusting yourself to God's care to shunning comparison and finally allowing your very nature to be changed through the Grace of Christ, she assures mothers everywhere that it's okay to feel how you feel and that the journey to contentment is not one you have to travel alone.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" with Dr. Mack Wilberg

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 06:50:00 +0000

From the opening shout of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir on "Saints Bound for Heaven" you can hear the millennial fervor and frontier optimism of 19th century America leaping right out of this marvelous collection of time-tested hymns, as well as the hopeful harmony of the spirituals which comforted a people waiting for deliverance— including the heartbreaking beautiful "I Want Jesus to Walk With Me," featuring soloist Alex Boyé.

Sharing highlights from a pipe-and-drums "Amazing Grace" to the new signature tune in their repertoire, "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing," Tabernacle Choir Music Director Dr. Mack Wilberg, talks about what defines a folk hymn, choosing these particular pieces, and why they resonate with us still today.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Scripture Scouts Sing Along - My Family and Me"

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 07:45:00 +0000

In a world which isn't even sure anymore how to define words like "marriage" and "family," here come the Scripture Scouts celebrating the biggest, most basic concepts in the entire universe with songs both sweet and silly.

Scripture Scout writers Roger and Melanie Hoffman, Marvin Payne, and Steven Kapp Perry (plus Boo the Dog) share stories and songs from this new sing-along CD, which takes 29 songs from the "Family Proclamation" edition of the Scripture Scouts series and creates a joyful musical journey through our Father's plan of happiness with the most important people in the world -- our families!

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"The Ghosts of Gardner Village" with Clive Romney and Tammy Robinson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 04:38:00 +0000

Hammie Orr's little St. Johns cabin. The widow Walker's house built from freighters' materials. The Ahlstrom & Russell cabins now married together. The Johnsons with their amazing two-story Rush Valley cabin. Archie Gardner and his mill. Why were these structures, which would have been destroyed if they hadn't become part of Gardner Village, preserved? What stories need to be told?

Nancy Hanson, Rob Honey, Sam Payne, Tammy Robinson and Clive Romney have been talking with the Ghosts of Gardner Village and have created a production of enchanting musical tales from the stories they've been told. Clive and Tammy talk about the new CD, upcoming live performances, and why and how you should consider turning your own family history into art.

And yes, at the veeerry end, we’ll even include an actual ghost story or two.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Saying It Like It Is," by Sheri Dew

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 03:18:00 +0000

You don't serve in the Relief Society General Presidency and interact with women around the world without learning a thing or two about their role in the church and in the world. You don't become CEO and President of Deseret Book without learning a thing or two about leadership. And you don't write over a half-dozen best-selling books unless you know how take what you've learned and put it into words in a way that sticks with people.

Sheri Dew is a remarkable person even aside from the honors and service listed above. In this interview she uses quotes from her new book, "Saying It Like It Is," as a springboard to discuss women, priesthood, inspiration, and how the Saints can make a difference in the world.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Enough is Enough," Debt-Free Living by Cheryl Carson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 05:36:00 +0000

If you're sick and tired enough of being trapped and strapped, if the desire to break out of financial bondage is strong enough, it can be done—more quickly than you'd think and without using a budget or sending Mom out to work. But be warned, this book is not for the faint of heart. It's the bracing slap-in-the-face print equivalent of a financial boot-camp.

After she and her husband paid off business debts of over $60,000 in just three years and then did the same with their home mortgage over the next three, author and professional-grade spendthrift Cheryl Carson has the experience, the know-how, and a book full of practical advice to really help you make it happen. You'll be amazed, you'll think she's crazy, and then—if you've got enough humility— you'll might find yourself rethinking words like "needs" and "wants."

Listen as Cheryl describes four ways the adversary uses debt to bind and discourage us, then shares a brief overview of her "Six Steps to Debt-Free Living."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Be Thou An Example" 2009 Songs for Youth

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 07:20:00 +0000

Writing and producing music for youth is always a challenge, but especially when you're creating material to work in settings as varied as chapels and outdoor activities.

Producers Barry Gibbons and Jim Funk talk about creating this project in support of the 2009 theme for LDS Young Men and Young Women, and the serendipitous inclusion of a few lines of lyric even before "Virtue" was added to the Young Women's values statement.

That's this week, on The Cricket and Seagull...

"The Continuous Atonement" by Brad Wilcox

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 07:50:00 +0000

The sacrament prayers have to be delivered word-perfect, but the person giving the prayer gets as many chances as he needs to get it right. And if he messes it up again the next week, he gets to try again. When the prayer is finally delivered correctly, the effort is counted as perfect, no matter how many tries it took to get there.

From a wealth of experience as an LDS bishop and mission president, well-known author and speaker Brad Wilcox shares hopeful insights into the continuous nature of Christ's atonement, why repentance is a process more than an event, why we are in danger of losing a generation who give up rather than grasp the idea of "incremental worthiness," and how the atonement can do so much more than just bring us back to God, but actually changes our natures.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Janice Kapp Perry: A Life of Service and Song" with Clinton Baxter & Greg Anderson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 07:47:00 +0000

Condensing any lifetime into a one-hour documentary is a daunting task, but it can be even more difficult when you're also trying to find space for 20 or so songs to represent the life work of one of the LDS Church's best-loved and most prolific composers.

The documentary premieres Monday, February 16, 2009, at 8 PM Mountain Time. Producers Clinton Baxter and Greg Anderson talk about choosing the material, doing the interviews, the surprising things they learned along the way, and, in particular, the subject herself, Janice Kapp Perry.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Winter at Winter Quarters

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 08:41:00 +0000

Elder and Sister Brewster, the current directors of The Historic Mormon Trail Center, and the sister missionaries who serve here, will tell you that it's not the busy season right now, but winter at Winter Quarters in present-day Omaha, NE, and the sites just across the river in Kanesville, IA, have enough history and stories to warm any mid-winter heart.

To stand in the cemetery today and see a temple rising where once only hopes and prayers for the future ascended, is to see those hopes fulfilled, and heavenly promises kept. Today we’ll listen to Elder Hoyt Brewster talk about the faith of those who lived here for a season, and why the dedication of this particular temple was so touching to President Hinckley.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

The Revised and Enhanced History of Joseph Smith by his Mother, Part 2 of 2

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 02:15:00 +0000

Part 2 of 2.

For years the original manuscript of "The History of Joseph Smith, Jr. by His Mother, Lucy Mack Smith" was lost, but once it was recovered, Scot and Maurine Proctor, editors and publishers of Meridian Magazine, combed through the manuscript to restore Lucy's fascinating original narrative. With the addition of maps, nearly a hundred photographs, and painstaking endnotes, "The Revised and Enhanced History of Joseph Smith by His Mother" has become the authoritative edition of this historical treasure.

This week we bring you Part 2 of a longer presentation Scot & Maurine Proctor gave in June of 2005 at "This Is The Place Heritage Park" at the mouth of Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake City, Utah--including a fascinating Question & Answer Session.

You can read the serialization of The Revised and Enhanced History of Joseph Smith by His Mother, published on MeridianMagazine.com.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

The Revised and Enhanced History of Joseph Smith by his Mother, Part 1 of 2

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 04:36:00 +0000

For years the original manuscript of "The History of Joseph Smith, Jr. by His Mother, Lucy Mack Smith" was lost, but once it was recovered, Scot and Maurine Proctor, editors and publishers of Meridian Magazine, combed through the manuscript to restore Lucy's fascinating original narrative. With the addition of maps, nearly a hundred photographs, and painstaking endnotes, "The Revised and Enhanced History of Joseph Smith by His Mother" has become the authoritative edition of this historical treasure.

This week we bring you Part 1 of a longer presentation Scot & Maurine Proctor gave in June of 2005 at "This Is The Place Heritage Park" at the mouth of Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Watch for Part 2 next week, which includes a fascinating Question & Answer Session.)

You can read the serialization of The Revised and Enhanced History of Joseph Smith by His Mother, on MeridianMagazine.com.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

The Joseph Smith Papers, Volume 1

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 08:24:00 +0000

The angel Moroni said his name would be had for good and for ill throughout the world, but the publication of The Joseph Smith Papers can help insure that whatever the Prophet is known for can at least be historically accurate.

Patrick Dunshee, Manager of Marketing and Communications for the project, and Dr. Mark Ashurst-McGee, co-editor of this first volume, give an overview of this years-long project which may encompass 30 volumes by its end, discuss the content of this first book of the journals series, describe the day-to-day work of the editing, and the purpose behind the creation of the Church Historian's Press and The Joseph Smith Papers.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Merry Christmas 2008!

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:50:00 +0000

The story this week isn't breaking news even though it's good news. In fact, old or new don't really apply--it's timeless. I hope you'll have a quiet moment to relax and listen to The Christmas Story read from the New Testament, interwoven with some of my favorite Christmas music.

Simple, short, and sweet.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Praise to the Man, Songs Honoring the Prophet Joseph" with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 04:46:00 +0000

From the joyful opening strains of "The Morning Breaks, the Shadows Flee," to its more somber conclusion, this new release from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Orchestra at Temple Square commemorates the life and mission of Joseph Smith, called the prophet of the Restoration by Latter-day Saints everywhere. The release date of December 23rd also marks the Prophet's birthday in 1805 in Sharon, Vermont.

For those not familiar with the theology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often called “Mormons” or “Latter-day Saints,” the role of a Prophet is very important—like Moses to the Israelites, or Peter and Paul to the early Saints. The first of these, the one called by God to Restore the ancient church in the latter days, was Joseph Smith, Jr.

Besides the cover painting by David Lindsley, the CD booklet is beautifully illustrated inside with 9 full-color paintings by Jon McNaughton and includes a short history of the life and times of Joseph Smith.

Music Director and Arranger Dr. Mack Wilberg talks about the song choices and the arrangements in this album of LDS classic hymns such as "Joseph Smith's First Prayer," "An Angel From on High," and the title hymn, "Praise to the Man." Also included are two children's songs, as well as the millennial hymn "Adam-ondi-Ahman," and of course "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull.

"Popcorn Popping" with Marvin Goldstein

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 04:43:00 +0000

In nearly 5 decades of performing, pianist Marvin Goldstein has delighted audiences with his often whimsical interpretations of LDS Primary songs. Now with 'Popcorn Popping' he puts them all together into a collection that's fun without being silly--a musically smart and surprisingly sophisticated children's CD that may please adults best of all.

Together with acclaimed woodwind artist Daron Bradford, Marvin brings you 24 playful selections including 'Popcorn Popping,' 'Book of Mormon Stories,' 'Handcart Blues,' 'In the Leafy Treetops,' and a whole bunch more.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Candlelight Christmas" at This Is The Place Heritage Park

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:20:00 +0000

For whatever reason, People Present always seem to remember Christmases Past with a certain nostalgia and longing. Are we reaching for a moment of childhood magic to relive? To connect with family and home in a way we rarely have time to anymore?

Whatever the reason, "Candlelight Christmas" at This Is The Place Heritage Park is a chance for everyone to step back into a simpler time and place and celebrate a pioneer Christmas by making crafts, learning a pioneer dance in the school house, hearing live carolers, riding a train to Brother Brigham's house for hot cider. There's something for everyone at Candlelight Christmas!

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Rejoice and Be Merry" with Mack Wilberg, The Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and The King's Singers

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 05:36:00 +0000

Combining a world-famous choir and orchestra with the world-renowned King's Singers was both a joy and a challenge for Tabernacle Choir director Dr. Mack Wilberg. Besides waving the baton and keeping everyone together, he also did the bulk of the beautiful arrangements on this new holiday release (also available on DVD).

Dr. Wilberg shares his approach to arranging for the choir, points out a few musical highlights from this new production, and talks about the privilege of doing the work he does.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Love Like That" with Daniel Beck

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 06:44:00 +0000

His range and repertoire make the Josh Groban comparisons unavoidable, but Daniel Beck's debut CD "Love Like That" definitely shows a polished and passionate performer who can stand on his own on any stage or in any recording studio.

Dan talks about singing, recording, and finding songs about love that fit right in-between the personal and the religious. The CD is available for download or purchase, plus, he has an upcoming premier concert/benefit performance in Salt Lake City.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"If I Only Had Today" with Hilary Weeks

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 05:25:00 +0000

For her seventh CD, singer/songwriter Hilary Weeks decided not to stress, not to stay awake worrying (and crying) about whether the songs would come, but simply to trust they would and keep moving.

It's a nice metaphor for all sorts of experiences which take us to the edge of our worries and weaknesses and ask us to step off—into what? That's what these songs are all about. Plus, a story about 24 yellow roses you won't want to miss.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

YourLDSradio.com Goes Live Monday, Nov.3, 2008!

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 05:50:00 +0000

The best thing about radio is that it's free. The best thing about the internet is how it can connect you to people and places and knowledge around the world.

This coming Monday morning you'll experience the best of radio and the internet combined when "yourLDSradio.com" starts connecting you, wherever you live, to LDS music and information 24/7 and it's all free! Program Director Sam Payne talks about the concept, the special on-demand features, and the easy-as-pie nuts-and-bolts of how anyone can access yourLDSradio.com online.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Hymns Anew," Music from Beyond the Zion Curtain

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 03:42:00 +0000

Obviously not every accomplished LDS musician lives in Salt Lake or Utah counties, but it can be a little harder for those musical luminaries out shining their lights on distant (depending where you are) hills to catch the eye, or ear in this case, of the Saints.

This week we called Kansas City, KS, to explore "Hymns Anew," a modern acoustic treatment of LDS hymns by singer/arranger/producer Clayton Pixton and several of his talented siblings who are scattered all over the US.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Mountain Blue," Southern Gospel Right From the Heart of... BYU?

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 06:44:00 +0000

One is from Southern California, another from South Utah County, but that's about as Southern as most of the members of Mountain Blue get. Still, when you hear their new CD "Mountain Blue," you'll know they all made a Southern connection with these hymns and songs.

Familiar favorites like "Amazing Grace" get the Mountain Blue treatment as well as less familiar pieces like "Roll Back the Stone," "Gospel Train," and my personal favorite, the gospel standard "Wondrous Love."

It's good gospel fun this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Book of Mormon Geography with Dr. Stephen L. Carr

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 02:23:00 +0000

While some have looked at the map of the entire Western hemisphere and discerned "the land Northward""and "the land Southward" and even the "narrow neck of land" spoken of in The Book of Mormon as self-evident, others have gleaned clues from the text itself which point to a much, much smaller geographical area.

Dr. Stephen L. Carr previews a presentation he's giving at an upcoming Book of Mormon Archeological Foundation conference happening in SLC next weekend (www.bmaf.org for info on attending), in which he summarizes 5 of the most recent and best-supported theories of a Meso-American placement for the events of The Book of Mormon, and why thy matter.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Hurricane Ike: In Their Own Words

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 04:45:00 +0000

Some stayed, some evacuated, but all these Latter-day Saints have been affected by Hurricane Ike. Sheriee Staub is busy cooking for the 60 or so Elders sleeping at a nearby stake center by night and cleaning up the community by day. Greg and Sarah Evans headed for San Antonio with their toddler, and the owner of Nauvoo Books in Spring, TX, JoAnn Rapp feels blessed even though it may be quite some time before her bookstore can re-open.

Hear their stories in their own words, plus Houston South Stake President Gifford Nielsen (of BYU football and NFL renown) talk about the ability of the church organization to deal with disaster, the need for preparation, and the great support received from the brethren in SLC while many are still without water or power in the Houston area.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"25," the New 6-CD Boxed Set from Michael McLean

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 06:59:00 +0000

For 25 years Michael McLean has inspired listeners with his tender songs and candid messages. To commemorate this anniversary, Michael has released a new collection of six albums, sold separately or as a commemorative boxed set, featuring many of the songs you know and love plus several brand-new recordings; the essential McLean anthology.

Michael talks about songwriting, the song he (and all writers) keep re-creating over and over, and why anyone would buy an album from a guy who can't sing!

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Mothers Without Borders" with Kathy Headlee Miner

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:46:00 +0000

Even with 6,000 children a day (yes, a day!) being orphaned by AIDS world-wide, Kathy Headlee Miner is not discouraged. She talks about the founding of "Mothers Without Borders," not shutting out problems just because they seem overwhelming, and why the term "success" is irrelevant.

Always articulate and passionate about what she does, Kathy shares a new painting from Liz Lemon Swindle depicting Christ in Africa and an upcoming concert by Jericho Road which are two ways you can make a difference in the world right now, plus the 2008 fundraiser boutique in Layton, UT—a way to make your Christmas budget reach farther around the world than you'd ever imagined.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"A Brighter Day" Acoustic Instrumental Guitar from Michael Dowdle

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 06:05:00 +0000

It must be fun to be Michael Dowdle—to have the musical chops to play anything on the guitar. So when it came time to do an album of anything he wanted, why did he choose a genre that showcases peace over virtuosity, and relaxation over flashiness?

Michael talks about being both a soloist and a session player; playing both what you love and what's put in front of you, and turning it all into "A Brighter Day."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Prayer," the CD and Upcoming Concert from Dallyn Vail Bayles

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 23:03:00 +0000

Besides being a bit hard to spell, the name Dallyn Vail Bayles has long been associated with dramatic vocal, stage, and screen performances. Now this Green River, UT, native returns from his new home in the New York City area with a CD and a live concert simply called "Prayer."

Whether it's "Bring Him Home" from Les Miserables (he had a starring role in the national broadway touring company) or the album-ending "I Have Seen Him," by LDS composer Ross Boothe, Bayles has chosen each song to reflect some aspect of that most personal communication with God; prayer. Dallyn talks about music, growing up in Green River, raising a family in the Broadway environment, and his upcoming concert at the Covey Center for the Arts in Provo, UT, on September 5th.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"With Mine Own Hand, the Musical Account of Nephi"

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 09:21:00 +0000

Ramona Zabriskie has a great imagination, but when she began editing down Nephi's words in First and Second Nephi fifteen years ago, she didn't imagine the resulting musical "With Mine Own Hand" would be premiering to LDS audiences from around the world at BYU Education Week.

Along with Utah composer Becky Alexander, Zabriskie has created a large-cast, full-scale stage musical which has had limited productions in the Portland, OR, area and will soon be the first out-of-state production to appear at Education Week. This week she and her husband Dale, who plays the older Nephi, talk about adapting scriptural accounts, the miracles that brought the production together, and the themes of Nephi's life.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Pride and Prejudice" the New Musical

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 07:34:00 +0000

Imagine taking "Pride and Prejudice," the best-known, best-loved, and most-filmed of Jane Austen's novels, and turning it into a musical. Where would you begin? What would you cut for the stage while still leaving in the favorite characters and witty dialogue?

That's exactly the challenge faced by two LDS composers, Deborah Morris and Ann Kapp Andersen; the premiere run of their new musical theater version of Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" is currently running at the SCERA theater in Orem and will be appearing later this month at BYU Education Week. We'll include musical excerpts and hear the authors tell about converting this world-renowned literary masterpiece into a 2-hour stage musical.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

LDS Music Streaming Online 24/7 for Free!

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:14:00 +0000

Now "Soft Sunday Sounds" is streaming inspirational music via the internet 24/7 from FM100 in Salt Lake City, UT. That means anytime, anyplace, day or night, whatever time zone, whether you live in London or Lindon, Provo or Prague, you can hear inspirational favorites to help set the mood for your day. And it's free!

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Pioneer Day Interview with Brother Brigham Himself!

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 22:39:00 +0000

What would you ask Brother Brigham if you could sit down and talk about the trek West, his relationship with Joseph Smith, Johnson's army, or a hundred other topics?

Thanks to the expertise and research of actor James Arrington, Salt Lake City broadcaster Joan Peterson and I got to do just that. Hear about the first Pioneer Day celebrations in the canyons and the memorable July 24th when Porter Rockwell rode into the festivities to announce Johnson's army was on its way!

That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

"Last Man Standing" with Ryan Shupe and The Rubber Band

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 08:43:00 +0000

Ever since these Utah boys made good with a national recording contract, they've been touring their brand of country and folk-based musical mayhem all over America.

So how do five LDS RM's fit into the Nashville music scene? Songwriter Ryan Shupe shares his thoughts on everything from "Dream Big" to "Corn Dogs" on their latest release, "Last Man Standing."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Celebrate America's 4th with Utah's Songwriting Senator Orrin Hatch

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 12:31:00 +0000

Celebrate America's 4th with Patriotic Music from Utah's Songwriting Senator

Even with all the years he's served in the US Senate, most of Senator Hatch's constituents are unaware of his penchant to put pen to paper writing hymns, songs, and patriotic music, or that they've been sung at Presidential Inaugurations and even on "Oprah."

This week we're celebrating America's Independence Day with music of home and country he's co-written with Janice Kapp Perry. We talked to both of them this week about their favorites and the stories behind the music.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Father to Son" with Sam Payne

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 06:52:00 +0000

From the opening applause you'll know that this is live and that Sam Payne is definitely in his element. Besides the 13 great live songs (including fan favorite "Autumn Leaves") about connections, history, and what gets handed down, this CD includes "the stories" —the in-between set ups and thoughts and humor that make a live show so memorable and give the songs added magic.

Whether it's "All Comes Down in a Line" or "These Are My People," Father to Son is a celebration of the mixture of joy and pain that is real life. This album would be great for Dad on Father's Day or for anyone on any day.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Saturday's Warrior" and "The White Star" with Doug Stewart

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 30 May 2008 06:51:00 +0000

Thirty-five years after its premiere, "Saturday's Warrior," the LDS cultural phenomenon of the 70's, gets an anniversary performance tour and a bookend in "The White Star," which follows Jimmy Flinders, now James, into fatherhood and a secret wound which pulls him farther and farther from his family and the Lord.

Playwright and producer Doug Stewart talks about the development of "Saturday's Warrior," its impact on the culture, and the changes he's seen in the last 35 years of Mormon Art.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Man of Honor--Remembering Gordon B. Hinckley" a musical tribute CD benefitting The Perpetual Education Fund

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 23 May 2008 05:18:00 +0000

From the many, many submissions received from LDS musicians, Craig Clifford and Jeff Goldman have compiled a 19-song remembrance of the life and teachings of President Gordon B. Hinckley which is as warm to look at and read as it is to hear.

But perhaps the best part of this musical remembrance is that it continues the work Pres. Hinckley began--all net proceeds will go to the Perpetual Education Fund. The compilers tell their experiences, preview the songs, and share a response from Pres. Hinckley's posterity.

That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

The Making of MormonTimes.com

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 16 May 2008 05:06:00 +0000

Imagine being the editor or the designer of a major newspaper at a time when many print papers are dying as their readership moves to online news media. Joe Cannon, Editor of the Deseret Morning News, and his staff have not only reinvented themselves online at DesNews.com, but have in the process also invented a whole new forum for Latter-day Saint culture and belief—MormonTimes.com.

From his office in Salt Lake City, Joe Cannon talks about the paper's tradition, putting MormonTimes.com together and what it hopes to capture, as well as a little bit about his own online feature—no longer anonymous—The Word of the Week.

In the newsroom itself, web expert Joe Charbonneau talks about the technical details, what stories are most popular, and the technologies which keep adding features to MormonTimes.com.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"What a Friend We Have in Jesus" by Chieko Okazaki

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 09 May 2008 05:36:00 +0000

"What a Friend We Have in Jesus," by Chieko Okazaki

What a friend we have in Jesus
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!

Reflecting on these words from a favorite Protestant hymn of her youth, Chieko Okazaki writes with feeling and passion about the relationship each of us can have with the Lord Jesus Christ.

Speaking up especially for those who feel disenfranchised and overlooked in the church,Sister Okazaki reminds us to claim the blessings our Savior has in store for us.

That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

"Forgiving Ourselves, Getting Back Up When We Let Ourselves Down," by Wendy Ulrich

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 02:48:00 +0000

We Latter-day Saints believe in becoming better — we work hard at it — but we're also among the most self-critical people. Too often we fail to fully claim the "amazing grace" of the Atonement. How can we help our loved ones — and ourselves — let go of past mistakes? Wendy Ulrich, an experienced psychologist, maps the journey from self blame to self-forgiveness. She shows how the pure doctrines of the restored gospel, coupled with the practical perspectives of psychology, can help us stop harrowing our souls and start planting the seeds of faith, healing, and joy.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Stones" with LDS Playwright J. Scott Bronson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 05:57:00 +0000

"Stones" with LDS Playwright J. Scott Bronson

He's worked onscreen in "Touched by an Angel" and other television and film work, but LDS playwright Scott Bronson's first love is the stage; whether it's writing, directing, or acting. This month he's doing all three at once in his award-winning play "Stones," playing at the Covey Center for the Performing Arts through April 26th of 2008.  

This powerful work is actually two parallel one-act plays--"Altars" and "Tombs,"--played by the same actors. The first tells the story of Abraham, Isaac, and Sarah, and the second featuring Mary, Jesus, and Joseph. Scott talks about his rules for putting words in the mouth of scriptural characters, the idea of sacrifice, and the human side of doing God's will. I was fascinated by every minute of his thought-provoking conversation and I think you will be too.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Joseph Smith the Prophet" by Rob Gardner

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 08:07:00 +0000

Ever since his student days at BYU, Mesa, AZ composer Rob Gardner has felt drawn toward the more classical and choral side of music. Over the years, this love has resulted in several large works for choir, orchestra and readers.

In April, those in the Salt Lake area can see one of his most moving works, "Joseph Smith the Prophet," live in the Tabernacle with a 300-voice choir and orchestra. And if you're outside the area, you'll be able to see a performance soon on BYUTV.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"All About You" with Kenneth Cope

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 09:01:00 +0000





		"All About You" New From Kenneth Cope Popular LDS singer/songwriter Kenneth Cope releases his first contemporary CD in years and "It's All About You". The "you," of course, being Christ. Kenneth talks about writing, what he worries about when performing, the Lord's abundant mercy, and much more. That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Kenneth Cope
Playlist All About You • Fire of God • His Name is Love • Broken • Where You Are • Tell Me • Him, and Him Alone • It's Still You • See You in the Morning • More • Your Father's Child

		Bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide, The Cricket and Seagull features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!


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"Grateful Praise" with Eclipse

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 07:09:00 +0000





	"Grateful Praise" New from Eclipse Known for their 6-part harmonies and entertaining live shows, a cappella group Eclipse releases its first CD of hymns and praise songs. Group members Dan Kartchner and Shayne Taylor take us on an audio tour of their choices, ranging from new twists on the traditional, like "All Creatures of Our God and King," to choral versions of newer LDS songs like "Mercy's Arms," and their Pearl Award-winning version of "Be Still My Soul." That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Playlist All Creatures of Our God and King • His Eye Is On the Sparrow • For the Beauty of the Earth • Mercy's Arms • God is Love • Evening Prayer • Open Thou Mine Eyes • Go With Me • Be Still, My Soul • I Believe in Christ • Let the Words


		Bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide, The Cricket and Seagull features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

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"Forgiveness, the Healing Gift We Give Ourselves," by Cheryl Carson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 13:47:00 +0000







				"Forgiveness" with Cheryl Carson Forgiveness. We all need it and we all have to give it. So why is it that when we most need to forgive is when it sometimes feels the most difficult to do? Author and speaker Cheryl Carson shares her personal journey to forgiving and helps us understand why giving it to others is the best gift we can give ourselves. That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...
	Cheryl Carson

				Bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide, The Cricket and Seagull features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

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PositiveMusicAndArts.com with Greg Hansen

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 23:04:00 +0000




				Award-winning composer, record producer, and Meridian Magazine columnist Greg Hansen has created a new online resource for musicians and others interested in enjoying and creating positive music and art. With everything from concert listings to tips for beginners, to a new Jukebox feature allowing you to have your song or vocal demo heard by industry professionals, this new site promises to have something for artists and devotees of all levels of skill and interest. That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...




				Bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide, The Cricket and Seagull features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!
	Greg Hansen

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"Babylight" with Clive Romney & Linda Coltrin

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 08:03:00 +0000







		"Babylight" with Clive Romney & Linda Coltrin We've heard of "Baby Einstein," even "Baby Mormon," but now songwriters Clive Romney and Linda Coltrin weave familiar classic melodies together with new gospel lyrics to create "Babylight." Do babies and toddlers even care about lyrics? About melodies? Will "Babylight" be the right light for your own personal "children of record"? Decide for yourself, this week on The Cricket and Seagull...


		Bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide, The Cricket and Seagull features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

		To get the free subscription URL for your Podcatcher, click the icon:

		For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:

A Musical Tribute to President Gordon B. Hinckley

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:05:00 +0000






		President Gordon B. Hinckley
		Musical tributes to President Gordon B. Hinckley Today, we remember Gordon B. Hinckley, beloved to us as President and Prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who passed away at the age of 97 last Sunday. Rather than present this in a "show" format, we'd like to simply play two tributes put together by Salt Lake City radio station FM100, as well as a timely new children's song. Most touching to me are the poignant final words, given by President Hinckley himself; "God be with you 'til we meet again." (Feel free to download and share the .pdf sheet music file; a hymn entitled "What is This Thing that Men Call Death," lyrics by President Hinckley.) That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"God be With You" from Twenty-Five Beloved Hymns of Prayer and Faith"

"God be With You" from "America's Choir"


	Bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide, The Cricket and Seagull features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!
"Gordon B. Hinckley" from "Latter-day Prophets"


	You can always find the most recent edition at MeridianMagazine.com/Radio.
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"We Thank Thee Oh God for a Prophet" from "Twenty-Five Beloved Hymns of the Restoration"
	For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:

CLICK to download "What Is This Thing That Men Call Death," lyrics by Gordon B. Hinckley

"A Child of God" - 2008 Primary Program Songs with Clive Romney

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:27:00 +0000






			2008 Primary Songs Clive Romney's inventive arrangements make his annual release of the new year's Primary Program songs something to look forward to. From a Celtic version of "We Thank Thee Oh God for a Prophet" to Clive's yearly original contributions, this is a fun CD for children of all ages. That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

	Clive Romney


			Bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide, The Cricket and Seagull features the unique voices of authors and artists, singers and songwriters, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

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			For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:

"Stories of Jesus" with Roger & Melanie Hoffman

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 07:15:00 +0000

The fresh young voices are sweet and endearing, the arrangements lively and imaginative, and you won't have to hear more than a stanza or two of the lyrics to know they are trademark Melanie Hoffman. "Stories of Jesus," the newest release from Hoffman House and Shadow Mountain features 15 delightful and touching songs on the life of Christ which show in even a brief listening why Roger and Melanie Hoffman are among the best-known and best-loved writers of music for children. That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

YourLDSNeighborhood.com with Gaylen Rust and Lauryn Wingate

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 01:24:00 +0000

It may not look exactly like any neighborhood you know, but "Your LDS Neighborhood" is still going to feel pretty familiar once you arrive and start clicking your way around the block.

Gaylen Rust and Lauryn Wingate talk about this new LDS-themed resource for books, movies, outlet malls, music, weddings, missionary stuff and more, plus their monthly giveaways.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Merry Christmas 2007!

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 03:05:00 +0000

Merry Christmas 2007!

The story this week isn't breaking news even though it's good news. In fact, old or new don't really apply—it's timeless. I hope you'll have a quiet moment to relax and listen to The Christmas Story read from the New Testament, interwoven with some of my favorite Christmas music.

Simple, short, and sweet.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Gordon B. Hinckley - Temple Builder, Up Front and Personal," with Scot and Maurine Proctor

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 04:18:00 +0000

From their unique vantage point in front-row press seats, Meridian Magazine publisher and editor-in-chief Scot and Maurine Proctor have been close up witnesses to both the man and the mission.

"Gordon B. Hinckley - Temple Builder, Up Front and Personal," is a warm and fascinating documentary-style film focused on this remarkable latter-day prophet and his urgent push to bring the temples to the people, no matter where they live.

Along with beautiful photography, the Proctors share many personal moments and stories gathered from local Latter-day Saints impacted by the presence of a new temple in their midst in countries around the globe.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Everything Speaks His Name" with Jessie Clark Funk

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 07:44:00 +0000

Her first CD, "Clay in His Hands," won 4 Pearl Awards and brought her to the attention of LDS listeners everywhere. "Better Than I" continued in the same vein, and now her third release, "Everything Speaks His Name" lets the strength of Jessie Clark Funk's voice sparkle in a wider variety of styles and settings than ever.

Still, as you'll hear in this interview, the themes of atonement, grace, and seeing God's hand in the world around us are constants throughout. After all, "Everything Speaks His Name."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Heaven's Not That Far" with Joshua Creek

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 05:14:00 +0000

Inspirational Country? No, that's not an oxymoron, it's just the genre singer/songwriters Jeff Hinton and Quint Randle use to describe what they do when they write and perform together as the duo Joshua Creek.

In their sophomore release, they show that there is much more material to mine where "I Love You Son" and other past favorites came from.

From the opening "Sacred Ground" to the bouncy "Honey Do List" (which husbands may or may not want their wives to hear!) the themes of faith and family come through loud and clear in these touching and sometimes humorous musical observations.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Help us create "Conference Minute"!

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 02:22:00 +0000

This week: Help us create “Conference Minute? a new radio feature on-air and online.

LDS General Conference always dusts things off and leaves us motivated and ready to move ahead in our spiritual journey. Soon after, however, the dust of life can begin to settle and even our best resolves can begin to fade from memory.
President Hinckley ended the October 2007 conference with an admonition to study and discuss the talks in our homes and with our families.

To help with this, Utah's AM 820, which features LDS music 24/7 both on-air and online, will soon be presenting a "Conference Minute" several times a day, rotating through all of the speakers and presenting minute-long reminders of the wisdom and spirit available in those inspired and inspiring conference addresses. And, of course, we'll have links on the station website showing how listeners can read or hear the entire address from the official Church website.

Let’s start with a few examples -- giving first place, of course to our Prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley...

PRESIDENT HINCKLEY

PRESIDENT PACKER

JULIE B. BECK

ELDER DIETER F. UCHTDORF

So, that’s the concept for “Conference Minute? coming soon to a radio near you if you live in Utah’s AM 820 listening area, or to a computer near you if you listen online.

Why not share with us your suggestions for more “Conference Minutes?? Which talk, paragraph, or even single sentence from the recent conference affected you, touched your heart, and influenced you the most for good?

Email your thoughts to SoftSundaySounds@utaham820.com. We can't wait to hear your comments!

"Spirit" with Alex Boyé

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 07:41:00 +0000

London-born singer Alex Boyé may be the only member of The Mormon Tabernacle Choir to have had a record contract as a performer in a successful pop boy band in Europe, but one thing he shares with his fellow choir members is their passion for praising the Lord in song.

With his new solo release, "Spirit," Alex shares both originals and contemporary Christian favorites with a soulful style that shows why he just won Pearl Awards for Best Contemporary Recorded Song ("Build the World") and Performing Artist of the Year from the Faith Centered Music Association.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Let's Sing About Latter-day Prophets" by Janice Kapp Perry

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 02:27:00 +0000

After raising a family, writing over 1,000 songs, releasing over 60 albums of original music, serving a full-time proselyting mission in Santiago, Chile, and surviving a debilitating stroke, you might think Janice Kapp Perry would take a vacation.

Instead, she and her husband, Doug, are church service missionaries in a Spanish-speaking ward in Provo, UT, and she's just recorded her latest project for children -- "Let's Sing About Latter-day Prophets," which celebrates the Lord's latter-day leaders from Joseph Smith, Jr. to our own Gordon B. Hinckley. Each prophet is honored with a song describing their lives and missions, as well as featuring a full-color montage of each prophet's life by LDS artist and illustrator Robert Barrett.

Janice discusses researching and writing the project, her philosophy of writing for children, and more.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Wake Up to a Happier Life" with Amanda Dickson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 07:55:00 +0000

If you'd had nearly 20 different jobs in your life and liked (almost) all of them, you might be an expert --an expert on finding joy in work.

Amanda Dickson is best-known as the co-host of Utah's Morning News with Grant and Amanda on KSL radio in Salt Lake City, but she put down the microphone and picked up the pen long enough to share a wealth of information and humor on the work we choose to do at home or in the workplace, attitudes, opportunities (like getting fired), and more.

Leave it to someone who starts every morning at 3:00 AM to know how to be excited to get up tomorrow and do it all with joy.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

LDS Church History tour with Alan McKay

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Mon, 03 Sep 2007 21:20:00 +0000

This week: Part 2 of our series on LDS Travel -- featuring Morris Murdock’s 10-day LDS Church History Tour with Yours Truly and Alan McKay.

In February of this year -- 2007 -- I visited with Morris Murdock travel host extraordinaire Alan McKay at a Salt Lake City travel expo about the questions most people have regarding LDS Church History travel; Why a group tour instead of doing it on your own? How old do my children need to be to get the most from experience? How heavily scheduled are the tours, and what can make this trip to sites from Palmyra to Kirtland to Independence to Nauvoo and Winter Quarters, a spiritual journey as well.

With temperatures cooling and the leaves changing, Fall is the most beautiful time to tour in the Eastern and Mid-Western US. We’ll also have information on how you can join Alan McKay and me for a 10-day tour of LDS Church History this Fall.

That’s this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"This Is the Christ" - in memorial to James E. Faust

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 20:26:00 +0000

A MUSICAL TRIBUTE TO PRESIDENT JAMES E. FAUST

Today, we remember James E. Faust, member of the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who passed away at the age of 87 early last Friday morning. President Faust retired from his law practice when he was called as a General Authority of the Church thirty-five years ago and immediately introduced himself to the membership with his characteristic down-to-earth sense of humor.  

James Faust was born on a farm in Delta, UT, served a mission to Brazil, served in the military, earned a law degree and was elected to the Utah state legislature, but he is best known and best loved for his spirit of service to all, and his powerful witness of the Savior. We pay tribute to his memory now in his own words, and with The Mormon Tabernacle Choir singing the hymn text he wrote; "This Is the Christ."  

We will miss you, President Faust.   That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

This Is the Christ
text by James E. Faust, music by Michael F. Moody Copyright © 1996 by the authors, used by permission

They heard His voice, a voice so mild;
It pierced them through and made their souls to quake;
They saw Him come, a man in white,
The Savior who had suffered for their sake.
They felt the woulds in hands and side,
And each could testify; This is the Christ;
This is the Christ, the holy Son of God,
Our Savior, Lord, Redeemer of mankind.
This is the Christ, the healer of our souls
Who ransomed us with love divine.

I read His words, the words He prayed
While bearing sorrow in Gethsemane;
I feel His love, the price He paid.
How many drops of blood were spilled for me?
With saints of old in joyful cry
I too can testify; This is the Christ;
This is the Christ, the holy Son of God,
Our Savior, Lord, Redeemer of mankind.
This is the Christ, the healer of our souls
Who ransomed us with love divine.

The Price We Paid - with Andrew D. Olsen

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 07:42:00 +0000

I just dropped off my 16-year-old pioneer. Except for the burgundy tennis shoes, he looked like he might have stepped right out of the 19th century (including the haircut). I waved as he shouldered his burlap gunny sack and headed off to meet his "family" for the next three days of pulling a handcart through the Utah Rockies. I wonder what his 4th-great grandparents -- the ones who actually survived crossing half the US on foot -- would think.

It's trek season and Latter-day Saint youth around the world are re-enacting the remarkable experiences of the 1856 handcart pioneers.

Andrew D. Olsen, author of "The Price We Paid, the Extraordinary Story of the Willie & Martin Handcart Pioneers," shares the stories and people of these best-known handcart companies in the most in-depth and complete retelling of their incredible saga ever published.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Meridian Publishing - with Scot Proctor

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 03:31:00 +0000

Imagine ordering books online that are then printed, bound, and then popped in the mail to you in the same time it would take from major online publishers -- in fact, you can do it today!

Meridian publisher Scot Proctor unveils a 21st century publishing solution that knocks the socks off old-school warehouse publishers while providing a way to reach Latter-day Saints and other values-minded people world-wide (think "every nation, kindred, tongue, and people") on demand. Take a listen and catch the vision of Meridian Publishing.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Songs of Praise" with Paul Cardall

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 06:16:00 +0000

Best known for his contemporary instrumental work, pianist and composer Paul Cardall surprises his fans and unveils a new album full of, well, words. And not just any words -- "Songs of Praise" combines lyrics and the talents of Evangelical Christian rock singer Steele Croswhite to give voice to Paul's gratitute for life, for love and God's goodness in a way that bridges the gap between LDS and other Christians by celebrating the common ground.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"And They Were Not Ashamed -- Strengthening Marriage Through Sexual Fulfillment" by Laura Brotherson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 11 May 2007 06:20:00 +0000

President Spencer W. Kimball wrote that the marriage relationship could be "an exultant ecstasy," yet too often well-meaning couples who are working together in every other area of their relationship find themselves frustrated and at cross purposes in the area of sexual intimacy.

The success of Laura Brotherson's ground-breaking book "And They Were Not Ashamed" shows the hunger LDS couples have for accurate, yet gospel-compatible information to help them connect joyfully in this important part of every marriage relationship.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

Ahmad Corbitt, Director of Public and International Affairs for the LDS church in New York City

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 04 May 2007 09:08:00 +0000

For many people, New York City is The city -- the center of the world. But even those who most love the hustle and bustle also love Central Park, an unbelievably huge swath of nature and peace in the midst of the highest real estate value in the country.

Similarly, since 2004 the Manhattan LDS Temple has provided a different kind of oasis for the 14 stakes in the temple district.

From his office in the temple complex, Ahmad Corbitt, Director of International and Public Affairs for the LDS Church in New York discusses his conversion, common misconceptions he battles, the church in an urban setting, and much more.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"If God Loves Me, Why This? Finding Peace in God's Plan for Us" with Kim A. Nelson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 13 Apr 2007 03:10:00 +0000

If God loves me, why _________?

Fill in the blank with your personal reason, says author and counsellor Kim Nelson in his new book, but the hard times all make more sense when we understand our basic relationship with God, his affection, and the nature of this mortal testing time.

Finding peace, learning the parental perspective, and much, much more this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"I Am A Mother" with Jane Clayson Johnson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 05:27:00 +0000

In her new book, Jane Clayson Johnson, former co-host of The Early Show on CBS, pulls no punches with a stirring, entertaining, and thought-provoking call to arms in defense of the phrase "I Am a Mother."

She speaks from experience telling what makes values and standards "portable," how her own mother's voice still guides her, and, in a final chapter, how sisters can support, rather than judge one another.

You'll never say, "I'm just a mom," again.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Anytime, Anywhere" with Elder John H. Groberg

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 30 Mar 2007 03:25:00 +0000

For Elder and Sister Groberg, "anytime, anywhere" meant moving their family over a period of thirty years to various locations across the globe from Hawaii to South America to Hong Kong. In every circumstance they experienced miracles large and small as they helped move the work of the Church forward. Anytime, Anywhere shares many of the touching and meaningful lessons they learned.

Whether traveling the globe or serving right where you live, you'll enjoy Elder Groberg's insights on preparation, service, and finding your mission in life from his book, "Anytime, Anywhere."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Sisters of Light - Music for the Sisters of the Church" with Jenny Phillips

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 23 Mar 2007 06:19:00 +0000

Daughter, wife, new mother (again), writer, singer; they all describe aspects of Jenny Phillips, but you can learn the most about her heart and soul from listening to her music. "Sisters of Light" is her new CD release with music for the sisters of the church; celebrating who they are, their mission, and their individual importance to Heavenly Father.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Hilary Weeks: The Collection"

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 16 Mar 2007 02:13:00 +0000

After charming and uplifting hundreds of thousands of listeners for the past 15 years, Hilary Weeks finally releases "Hilary Weeks: The Collection." This new CD includes 15 best-known songs from her 5 solo albums, but also features two new recordings unavailable anywhere.

In this edition Hilary talks about life, 15 years of music making, finding strength to face fears and challenges, her first-ever concert premiere on April 6th in Salt Lake City, and much more.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Songs From My Heart - the Stories Behind the Songs" with Janice Kapp Perry

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 06:28:00 +0000

From "As Sisters in Zion" to "I Walk By Faith" and "We'll Bring the World His Truth (Army of Helaman)," Janice Kapp Perry has written for every age group in the church. Now, in her book "Songs From My Heart," she shares the insights and stories behind 100 of her best-known and best-loved compositions.

Listen as Janice shares her music and her thoughts about these stories, songs and tests, and those too-rare moments of "spiritual dictation" when the music just seems to flow.

All this and much more this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

(Plus get a 40% discount on the book through April 2007 at JaniceKappPerry.com)

"Cruise Lady" LDS travel with Diane Lovell

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 16:01:00 +0000

It started with an Alaskan cruise she organized for LDS stake members in Washington State and has grown into its own building, staff, and happy clientele; she's Cruise Lady to everyone she knows and that will include you after you hear Diane Lovell's sponteneous enthusiasm for gathering the saints and sending them somewhere wonderful -- together!

In this edition, we'll hear what's available for escorted LDS tours from US Church History to walking where the Savior and the apostles walked, along with tips for booking, spiritual aspects of traveling as an LDS group, and life-changing destinations.

Check it out online at CruiseLady.com. All this and much more this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

"Showtime!" Music of Broadway and Hollywood with The Mormon Tabernacle Choir and director Craig Jessop

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 02:40:00 +0000

You asked for it! The newest recording from the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square features the most-requested songs from stage and screen, based on a survey sent to thousands of Choir fans. Included are Broadway tunes such as "Bring Him Home," from Les Miserables, and "Neverland," from Peter Pan, along with Hollywood hits such as "The Circle of Life," from The Lion King, and "In Dreams," from Lord of the Rings.

In this edition, Tabernacle Choir director Craig Jessop talks about music both timeless and new, the pressure of broadcasting 52 weeks a year, adding the orchestra to the choir, and why he still gets chills directing "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." Also, why he considers LDS President Gordon B. Hinckley the "patron saint" of the choir.

All this and much more this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

LDS.org -- The 2007 Redesign

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 04:12:00 +0000

The first version appeared online in 1994, followed by an update in 2000. Now LDS.org -- the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints -- unveils an all-new design in 2007.

In this edition we talked with Larry Richman, Director of Internet Coordination for the website. You'll learn what the most-used part of the site is, how to be informed of updates, why the redesign, and what's new at LDS.org.

That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

"I'll Follow Him in Faith," songs from the 2007 Primary program with Clive Romney

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 19 Jan 2007 04:12:00 +0000

It's his 16th CD of Primary Childrens' songs, but multi-talented composer and arranger Clive Romney still looks forward to this yearly gig. Today we'll talk about creating a children's song on the atonement, the story behind "Love Is Spoken Here," a perennial childrens' favorite, and much more.

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Tip-A-Day Guide for Healthy Living" with Melanie Douglass

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 05:11:00 +0000

New Year's resolutions aside, your health is worth thinking about every day; now Nutritionist, Dietitian and Trainer Melanie Douglass helps simplify it down to the daily level with her new book "Tip-A-Day Guide for Healthy Living: 365 Simple Ways to Improve Your Health, One Day at a Time."

We'll talk about negotiating the hazards of restaurant and gas station goodies, a simple way to measure servings anywhere anytime, one truly evil food (and no, it's not Devil's Food cake), helping kids and grownups think "healthy" and "Word of Wisdom" instead of "skinny," and much more. Grab a pencil, you may want to take some notes.

(This audio program contains one full serving of helpful insights, all natural, reusable, with no added sugars or preservatives. Actual health may vary according to genetic predisposition and strict adherence to common sense and Dr's orders.)

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"My Redeemer Lives: Bethlehem" with Todd McCabe & April Moriarty

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 22 Dec 2006 06:57:00 +0000

One has studied classical violin and played with symphonies and world-renowned artists and conductors. The other -- the pianist -- doesn't even read the bass clef, but Todd McCabe and April Moriarty both have a gift for improvisation and playing by ear that has turned into three CDs on the life the Savior; "My Redeemer Lives: Galilee," "Calvary," and now for Christmas, "Bethlehem."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"A Christmas Celebration" with Gladys Knight and the Saints Unified Voices

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 08 Dec 2006 08:32:00 +0000

So how do you follow a Grammy Award-winning Gospel CD? With more Gospel, of course! In fact, "A Christmas Celebration" from Gladys Knight and the Saints Unified Voices goes right back to the beginning, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and his birth as a tiny baby in Bethlehem -- the Reason for the Season. Let's celebrate!

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Farewell to Nauvoo" with Fiddlesticks and Lisa Arrington

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 09:06:00 +0000

There are some places where all you have to say is their name to evoke an entire history. For the Latter-day Saints one of those beloved, joyous, melancholy, and even holy places is Nauvoo, Illinois.

Fiddlesticks -- the Davis family's Celtic folk band -- and singer/arranger Lisa Arrington have teamed up to record a catalog of historic musical treasures celebrating the era and the spirit of that most remarkable place.

It's called "Farewell to Nauvoo." That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

"Beholding Salvation: Images of Christ" at the BYU Museum of Art - Enhanced Podcast

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 11:10:00 +0000

(Enhanced version of the Podcast - viewable in iTunes and on iPods)

BEHOLDING SALVATION: IMAGES OF CHRIST New Exhibit at the BYU Museum of Art

Powerful is the only way to describe it. 170 different paintings, prints, icons, illuminated manuscripts and sculpture from diverse times and creeds. It's impossible to bring you the entirety in the time we have, but Nicole Cannariato -- a Curatorial Assistant at the museum -- walks us through the exhibit focusing on just a few pieces from each section of the show.

If you're listening on an iPod or through iTunes, you'll be able to see the images in the enhanced podcast format. If not, then just visit meridianmagazine.com/radio to find this episode with all the images included. Many thanks to the kind permission of the copyright holders as we endeavor to share with listeners and viewers world-wide a small part of the spiritual impact of "Beholding Salvation: Images of Christ".

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull..

"Beholding Salvation: Images of Christ" at the BYU Museum of Art

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 03:29:00 +0000

BEHOLDING SALVATION: IMAGES OF CHRIST New Exhibit at the BYU Museum of Art

Powerful is the only way to describe it. 170 different paintings, prints, icons, illuminated manuscripts and sculpture from diverse times and creeds. It's impossible to bring you the entirety in the time we have, but Nicole Cannariato -- a Curatorial Assistant at the museum -- walks us through the exhibit focusing on just a few pieces from each section of the show.

If you're listening on an iPod or through iTunes, you'll be able to see the images in the enhanced podcast format. If not, then just visit meridianmagazine.com/radio to find this episode with all the images included. Many thanks to the kind permission of the copyright holders as we endeavor to share with listeners and viewers world-wide a small part of the spiritual impact of "Beholding Salvation: Images of Christ".

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

(This is the regular podcast version -- to view the images discussed visit http://www.meridianmagazine.com/radio beginning Friday, November 17, 2006. The Enhanced Podcast will be posted separately.)

"In Reverence" with David Tolk

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Sun, 12 Nov 2006 08:31:00 +0000

David Tolk is known to many as the guy at the piano in Peter Breinholt's band -- he's known to others as a North Star Records recording artist -- and of course 4 people just call him "Dad." This week he gives advice to LDS musicians about balancing family, music, and career -- shares his unusual method for arranging hymns and talks about the spiritual power of instrumental music. It's David Tolk with his new CD "In Reverence." That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"RootsMagic" with Bruce Buzbee

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 03 Nov 2006 08:38:00 +0000

There was a time when Genealogy and Family History meant filing cabinets full of paper, extra wide typewriters (remember what those are?), and lots of White Out. Nowadays though, Family History enthusiasts are more likely to talk about PAF, and GEDCOMS, and CyndisList.com -- it's a whole new world and today we're talking with a programmer who caught the vision of this revolution decades ago and has a suite of helpful programs to show for his years of focus and dedication. We talk about genealogy past, present, and future with "RootsMagic" company Founder and President, Bruce Buzbee. That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

"One Voice" - Grammy Award-winning music with Gladys Knight and the Saints Unified Voices

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 08:20:00 +0000

Just for a moment close your eyes. Imagine 100 strong voices united to Praise the Lord, then add a soulful musical legend as a director and occasional soloist. Now open your eyes and see their faces reflecting the colors and the cultures of the whole world. It's the Saints Unified Voices choir and in them you see a representation of the new world-wide face of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The SUV choir has won a Gospel Grammy, but you won't find them at Carnegie Hall or filling event centers. When they combine their voices into one to reach hearts and reach heaven, you'll most likely hear them in the everyday chapels where they fulfill their mission -- spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ to every one of God's children in all their diversity. "One Voice" -- Gladys Knight and the Saints Unified Voices. That's this week, on the Cricket and Seagull...

KZION - LDS Internet Radio with John Hesch

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 20 Oct 2006 02:36:00 +0000




				KZION LDS Internet Radio
			These days more people than ever can work from home and telecommute, you can even do your own radio show (like this one!) from your home studio, and now, you can even be your own radio station -- all from a little black box in your back room. John and Shelly Hesch Of course you have to figure out how to do all this from scratch since it's all new technology. But if you're John Hesch, from St. George, Utah -- that's way down south in Utah's "Dixie" -- you get the bug, the passion for an outlet for independent LDS music, and you start with just one listener and watch it grow until you have listeners in over 50 countries! The Hesch's License Plate That’s this week, on the Cricket and Seagull...




			The Cricket and Seagull Fireside Chat is a Podcast bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide. Steven Kapp Perry features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

			You can always find the most recent edition at MeridianMagazine.com/Radio.
			To get the free subscription URL for your Podcatcher, click the icon:

			For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:


			Click the banner for info on music, talks, scriptures, and books for your .mp3 player!

"All the Color Green" with Peter Breinholt

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 13 Oct 2006 06:53:00 +0000





		All the Color Green

	This edition is filled with songs reaching for that "intangible overallness" -- that indefinable spiritual quality great songs possess. The songwriter himself is a busy musician, husband, and father of three who doesn't usually know what the songs are about until they're finished and he can listen like everyone else. He defended the Beatles on the playground in 2nd grade and tells why climbing tall trees -- and temples -- have a lot in common. It’s "All the Color Green" with Utah singer/songwriter Peter Breinholt. That’s this week, on the Cricket and Seagull...
11 Tracks: All the Color Green • You Are Home • Old Paint • Tilting the Windmills • Don't Be Shy • First Song • Little Bird • For Becca, In England • A Little Spot of Ground • Queen Olé • The Rain Tree

	The Cricket and Seagull Fireside Chat is a Podcast bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide. Steven Kapp Perry features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

	You can always find the most recent edition at MeridianMagazine.com/Radio.
	To get the free subscription URL for your Podcatcher, click the icon:

	For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:


	Click the banner for info on music, talks, scriptures, and books for your .mp3 player!

One Clear Voice

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 29 Sep 2006 08:04:00 +0000





		One Clear Voice

	Separately their names are Tanya, Johanne, LaRene, and Tammy. Among themselves they have four husbands, thirteen children, and decades of studio and live performance experience. LaRene Tinney (l.) and Tammy Simister Robinson But put the four of them together to sing and it all melts into One Clear Voice. That’s the name of the new women’s vocal group with the breathtaking blend and the name of their new CD. . Johanne Fréchette Perry (l.) and Tanya Barkdull That’s this week on The Cricket and Seagull...
Places to look and listen:

15 Tracks: One Clear Voice • Ripples • See Things My Way • Every Moment • Savior • A Mother's Prayer • A Leap of Faith • For Good • Be Thou My Vision • Forgiveness' Embrace • Keeping Sheep • Change • I'm Trying to Be Like Jesus • Blessed Assurance • What I Need

		The Cricket and Seagull Fireside Chat is a Podcast bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide. Steven Kapp Perry features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

		You can always find the most recent edition at MeridianMagazine.com/Radio.
		To get the free subscription URL for your Podcatcher, click the icon:

		For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:


		Click the banner for info on music, talks, scriptures, and books for your .mp3 player!

"Coming Just to Go" with Sam Payne

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 22 Sep 2006 06:18:00 +0000




	Places to look and listen:
				Coming Just to Go
				He's a folk singer -- except when he's singing jazz and improvising scat-singing solos. He's a songwriter -- except when he was a Seminary Teacher and being a writer of history books for children. And he's Sam Payne -- except when he's The Sam Payne Project; the person and part of the group behind "Coming Just to Go,"; this week's featured album. We'll hear what sparks a song in his mind and why you never really have to choose between being an artist and being a Latter-day Saint and what folk singers give their kids for Christmas. That’s this week on The Cricket and Seagull...
	Sam Payne
				The Cricket and Seagull Fireside Chat is a Podcast bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide. Steven Kapp Perry features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

				You can always find the most recent edition at MeridianMagazine.com/Radio.
				To get the free subscription URL for your Podcatcher, click the icon:

				For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:


				Click the banner for info on music, talks, scriptures, and books for your .mp3 player!

"Count Your Blessings" with Marvin Goldstein

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 08 Sep 2006 06:26:00 +0000




			He’s an internationally acclaimed pianist, composer and entertainer whose musical career spans four decades and three continents. His studies include a music scholarship to Tel Aviv University School of Music, the famed “Mozarteum” of Salzburg, Austria, plus Bachelor and Master of Music degrees at Florida State University. And besides his many, many performances a year world-wide, his greatest passion is his Peace with Music Foundation whose mission is to bridge the cultural, religious and political differences of people everywhere through the medium of music. Marvin Goldstein is the name, and inspiring audiences everywhere through music is his game. That’s this week on The Cricket and Seagull...
	Places to look and listen:

	Count Your Blessings

			The Cricket and Seagull Fireside Chat is a Podcast bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide. Steven Kapp Perry features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

			You can always find the most recent edition at MeridianMagazine.com/Radio.
			To get the free subscription URL for your Podcatcher, click the icon:

			For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:


			Click the banner for info on music, talks, scriptures, and books for your .mp3 player!

The Basement Replacement Edition

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Wed, 06 Sep 2006 16:10:00 +0000

The two best things about producing The Cricket and Seagull every week are 1) the interesting people I get to interview, and 2) the listeners who send an email with a comment, a guest they'd like to hear, or just encouragment. So, I'm sorry to disappoint on those rare occasions where I can't get a show done -- and this month I've missed 3 in a row due to flooding and water damage. So, this is just a quick update -- we'll call it the -- Basement Replacement edition -- the whole studio has had to be removed and will be repainted, recarpeted and the equipment moved back in. So today I'm coming to you live from -- my bedroom. Hope you don't mind. We'll be back in business this Friday, appearing on MeridianMagazine.com like usual, and of course the podcast. The Podcast also has a new website that's pretty easy to remember; it's TheCricketAndSeagull.com. Coming up in the next three weeks I'll be editing interviews I did during the annual LDS Booksellers Convention in Salt Lake City, and during BYU Campus Education Week. These will include world-reknowned pianist Marvin Goldstein, folksinger and songwriter Sam Payne, and the new 4-member women's vocal group called One Clear Voice. They were all great guests with terrific music and I can't wait to share them all with you starting this Friday! Also, the Podcast itself will be moving to a shiny new spot on the web. iTunes should automatically redirect without you needing to do anything when the change happens, but if you're feeling tech-savvy and don't want to miss an episode, just go to iTunes or whatever Podcatcher you use, and resubscribe using the following URL (you can cut and past this): http://feeds.feedburner.com/thecricketandseagullfiresidechat Also, be sure and send an email to info@wordofmouthmedia.net and let me know what you'd like to hear -- your favorite musical or visual artists, authors, scholars, and more! We'll go out with a preview of One Clear Voice singing "Be Thou My Vision" from their new debut CD "One Clear Voice."

"Lift Your Mind Higher" - Lynne Perry Christofferson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 11 Aug 2006 07:34:00 +0000





			A recent letter to local church leaders everywhere announced the new Young Men & Young Women’s theme for 2007 -- including a portion of Doctrine and Covenants 121:45; “... and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God...” Songwriter Lynne Perry Christofferson is releasing a new CD addressing this theme directly. It’s called “Lift Your Mind Higher,” and she talks about leaps of faith, writing with your hands in the dishwater and even while sleeping, growing up as Janice Kapp Perry’s only daughter, and why an echoey unfinished basement is an advantage. That’s this week on The Cricket and Seagull...
	Places to look and listen:

	Lynne Perry Christofferson

			The Cricket and Seagull Fireside Chat is a Podcast bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide. Steven Kapp Perry features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

			You can always find the most recent edition at MeridianMagazine.com/Radio.
			To get the free subscription URL for your Podcatcher, click the icon:

			For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:


			Click the banner for info on music, talks, scriptures, and books for your .mp3 player!

Ron Simpson -- Lifetime Achievement Award from the FCMA!

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 28 Jul 2006 01:02:00 +0000

Welcome to Adobe GoLive 6






		BYU Professor Ron Simpson receiving the Lifetime Achievement Pearl Award from the FCMA (photo by Scott Thompson for The Daily Universe)
Places to look and listen:
		Every year the Faith-Centered Music Association, the FCMA, gathers for the annual Pearl Awards -- recognizing excellence in recorded music. This year's ceremonies in the BYU Fine Arts Center featured the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to the very-deserving Ron Simpson. He's an LDS musician, songwriter, player, studio owner, teacher, music publisher, record label general manager, columnist for Meridian Magazine, and so much more. A man who has made a difference in the church and in the world with his own music and in the way he has mentored and encouraged others. Today we'll bring you the audio of that presentation, including live and phoned-in comments from (in this order) country singer Dave Lemmon, performer/writer/arranger Clive Romney, composer/producer Merrill Jenson, studio owner Cliff Maag, director of BYU's Living Legends Janielle Christensen, sound company owner Joe Anderson, BYU Young Ambassador director Randy Boothe, managing director of BYU's Tantara Records Ben Fales, member of Diamond Rio Dan Truman, singer Wendee Jensen Truman, songwriter/artist Mindy Gledhill, songwriter/playwright/broadcaster Steven Kapp Perry, songwriter/producer Staci Peters, singer/songwriter Cherie Call, and songwriter/producer/arranger Tyler Castleton. That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...


	Reach. Lift. Inspire.


		The Cricket and Seagull Fireside Chat is a Podcast bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide. Steven Kapp Perry features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

		You can always find the most recent edition at MeridianMagazine.com/Radio.
		To get the free subscription URL for your Podcatcher, click the icon:

		For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:


		Click the banner for info on music, talks, scriptures, and books for your .mp3 player!

Happy Pioneer Day - Songs of the Mormons

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 21 Jul 2006 17:32:00 +0000

Welcome to Adobe GoLive 6





			Happy pioneer day! Music has been a part of the Mormon tradition from the very beginning. Whether it was hymns or folk songs, it seems there was music created to mark most important occasions. For instance we have the dedication of the Kirtland, Ohio, temple to thank for "The Spirit of God" in our hymn books today. And the migration West was no exception. The wagon company of 1847, nearly 160 years ago, was hardly under way before William Clayton came up with his new version of "All is Well" which we know as "Come, Come Ye Saints." And it was 150 years ago when the first of many handcart companies set out for the Rocky Mountains. They pushed and pulled their way across a continent finding strength in "The Handcart Song." This week in celebration of Pioneer Day on July 24th-- a state holiday in Utah -- we feature Mormon folk songs from the Library of Congress Archive of Folk Culture. These examples were recorded in 1946 and 1947 by Austin Fife and his wife Alta on a trip covering Utah gathering songs passed on in the folk tradition -- either learned firsthand from the writer or passed down in families and communities through the generations. That's this week, on the Cricket and Seagull...
	Guitar instrumentals taken from:



			The Cricket and Seagull Fireside Chat is a Podcast bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide. Steven Kapp Perry features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

			You can always find the most recent edition at MeridianMagazine.com/Radio.
			To get the free subscription URL for your Podcatcher, click the icon:

			For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:


			Click the banner for info on music, talks, scriptures, and books for your .mp3 player!

"When You Believe" - Rebecca Lopez

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 14 Jul 2006 17:59:00 +0000

Welcome to Adobe GoLive 6






			She was born in Mexico City but was raised in the States, loves singing with a Mariachi band but has a recording contract with an inspirational label, is learning to bring the same passion to singing in English she feels in Spanish, and is all about putting message over the messenger. That's BYU student and performer Rebecca Lopez, and today we talk about her first solo CD "When You Believe," including songs in both English and Spanish. That's this week, on the Cricket and Seagull... -SKP
	Places to Look and Listen:

	Rebecca Lopez

			The Cricket and Seagull Fireside Chat is a Podcast bringing music and interviews to Latter-day Saints and their friends worldwide. Steven Kapp Perry features the unique voices of authors, artists, musicians, scholars, and fellow Saints. Pull up a chair and join us for The Cricket & Seagull Fireside Chat!

			You can always find the most recent edition at MeridianMagazine.com/Radio.
			To get the free subscription URL for your Podcatcher, click the icon:

			For free "One-click" instant subscription through iTunes, click the icon:


			Click the banner for info on music, talks, scriptures, and books for your .mp3 player!

"Strangling Your Husband is NOT an Option" - Merrilee Browne Boyack

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 07 Jul 2006 18:09:00 +0000

She's a practicing attorney, city councilmember, life coach, real estate investor, writer, and professional speaker--all of which she does part-time while helping her husband raise their family of four boys. She speaks at BYU Education Week and Time Out for Women, authored "The Parenting Breakthrough: A Real-Life Plan to Teach Your Kids to Work, Save Money, and Be Truly Independent" and now she's set her sights on marriage -- improving it, that is.

This week Merrilee Browne Boyack talks about her new book, "Strangling Your Husband Is NOT an Option: A Practical Guide to Dramatically Improving Your Marriage."

That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"Hymns Without Words" with Jon Schmidt

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 23 Jun 2006 19:52:00 +0000

He does back flips onstage off the grand piano, plays while lying upside on the bench, has been known to wear wigs and hats onstage and even use a giant slingshot to shoot prizes into the audience. So naturally Jon Schmidt is doing -- a CD of hymns? "Hymns Without Words" is the latest from one-of-a-kind composer, pianist and showman, Jon Schmidt. This week he talks about hymns, why piano students drop out, why we're on the same team with good people throughout the world, and much more. That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull...

"No Boundaries" with The 5 Browns

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Mon, 19 Jun 2006 14:17:00 +0000

When Desirae and Deondra Brown left Alpine, Utah -- headed for Juillard to pursue their classical piano studies -- there was no way of knowing that their three piano-playing siblings and even their parents would soon follow suit, making New York City their temporary home base. Since the release of their self-titled first CD, The 5 Browns have been making news on the classical circuit, drawing audiences across the generations, including some more likely to be found at rock concerts. Today Desirae and Deondra talk about their musical beginnings, becoming a group, being known as Mormon musicians, and their contagious passion for classical music. That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

"The Greatest Gift" EFY 2006 with Staci Peters & Tyler Castleton

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 02 Jun 2006 20:52:00 +0000

Every summer thousands of LDS teenagers descend on campuses around the world for EFY -- that's Especially For Youth -- a sort of youth conference on spiritual steroids. And one of the perks of attending is being the first on your block to hear the new CD, since it isn't even for sale until the last session of EFY is over.

Still, that doesn't mean we can't give you a sneak peek of the brand new 2006 CD with songwriters and producers Tyler Castleton and Staci Peters, the creative artists behind, "The Greatest Gift." They talk about the music, the songs, the singers, and putting on protective armor to improve your songwriting.

That's this week, on the The Cricket and Seagull...

"A Heart Like His" with Virginia Hinckley Pearce

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 26 May 2006 14:07:00 +0000

Author Virginia H. Pearce As busy as we are, hearing that "man is that he might have joy," can almost seem like one more Herculean task to add to our already-daunting to-do lists. But what if there were a way, a way to feel that joy, to feel the love of God -- daily -- without adding even one more thing to the list? Interested? So was Virginia Hinckley Pearce. A busy person, author, wife, mother of six and grandmother of twenty-two with service in the Young Women general presidency and the general board of the Primary -- she and a group of sisters found just that; a way for all of us to rediscover basic Christianity and find it right within our own hearts, by making them "Hearts Like His." That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

"Esther and the King" from Liken the Scriptures

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 12 May 2006 15:44:00 +0000

Sometimes no matter how hard you try to go down one path, you find yourself walking down another. And if you're lucky -- or blessed -- you might even find out you like it better. You might even find out it's the one the Lord had in mind for you all along. Today we talk to Producer Ken Agle and his brother Dennis, writer and co-director, and after the break we'll hear from songwriter and co-director Aaron Edson. Those three, along with Executive Producer Craig Brooksby, make up the team behind "Liken the Scriptures," the wildy popular children's musical scripture series on DVD. That's this week on The Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

"He Did Deliver Me From Bondage" Part 2 with Colleen Harrison

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 05 May 2006 15:33:00 +0000

Last week we began a new series on overcoming addiction through the atonement of Jesus Christ (See Archives for April 2006 for Part 1). In Part 1, author Colleen Harrison discussed the origins of her book, "He Did Deliver Me from Bondage," and her personal journey. Today we continue that discussion, talk about the fruits of writing the book, and hear from Colleen's husband, Phil, author of "Clean Hands, Pure Heart -- Overcoming Addication to Pornography through the Redeeming Power of Jesus Christ." (At the end of the last edition Colleen told of the formation of local Heart-t-Heart support groups which can be found at http://www.heart-t-heart.org) That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

"He Did Deliver Me From Bondage" Part 1 with Colleen Harrison

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 28 Apr 2006 15:28:00 +0000

Addiction. A word used commonly in a joke, as in, "I'm a chocoholic." And it's funny. Unless it's true. Addiction. For some it conjures images of needle marks and drunks and back alleys. Others think it's just wishy-washy people who lack will power. For the addicts themselves -- and the ones who love them -- it means a desperate daily struggle to maintain any sense of normalcy while slowly losing a life-and-death spiritual battle with a pull or compulsion now completely beyond anything as puny as will power. But not beyond the power of the atonement of Jesus Christ. There is nothing stronger than the absolute power of that infinite act. Today, we join author Colleen Harrison to discuss her book, "He Did Deliver Me From Bondage," for part one of a series on overcoming addiction through the incomprehensible power of the atonement of Jesus Christ. (See Part 2 in the May 2006 Archives. In this edition Colleen tells of the formation of local Heart-t-Heart support groups which can be found at http://www.heart-t-heart.org) That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

"Popcorn Popping"

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 21 Apr 2006 14:29:00 +0000

It's Spring -- at least in the more moderate parts of the Northern hemisphere -- and, well, I looked out my window and what did I see? Yup. Popcorn popping on the apricot tree. So I started thinking about this song and how popular it is, and how even grown-ups can remember all the words and the actions, and how come it's included in our Primary Children's Songbook even though there's nothing religious in it, and how come it's the one Primary song singers think is safe to have a little fun with... That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

The "Beloved Hymns" Series with Michael Dowdle

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 14 Apr 2006 14:50:00 +0000

He's written and played themes for ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX, and the "Good Morning America" and "Today Show" themes among others. He can rock with the best of them, but seems most at home playing "Follow the Prophet" -- that's with a "ph" and not an "f" -- on the mandolin. His name is Michael Dowdle, unless you're in the BYU 127th ward and you just call him "Bishop." Today we feature music from his Beloved Hymns series, how the Lord opens doors, and avoiding being a musical Pharisee. That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

"Holy Places" with Chad Hawkins

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 07 Apr 2006 14:38:00 +0000

Imagine traveling to countries around the world always with the same destination in mind; the House of the Lord. In the course of sketching, photographing, drawing, and painting LDS temples around the world, artist and author Chad Hawkins has found himself interviewing Temple Presidents, architects, historians, builders, and LDS members around the globe, collecting the stories of faith and miracles which accompany his art to make up his new Deseret Book publication, "Holy Places." I interviewed him in his new home studio in Fruit Heights, UT. That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

Greg Hansen's Keynote to the FCMA Spring Workshop at BYU

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 31 Mar 2006 16:02:00 +0000

Twice a year the FCMA (Faith-Centered Music Association) holds a music workshop at BYU in connection with BYU's Media Week. Topics covered include songwriting, the business side of the music business, and sessions with alumni who have made a mark on the industry. This week we feature Greg Hansen's Keynote Address which kicked off the workshop. Greg discusses being an LDS Musician vs. being a Musician who is LDS, how many great songs a life well-lived is worth, and much more. He's introduced here by songwriter and producer Staci Peters, current Chair of the FCMA Board of Directors. That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

Jenny Jordan Frogley with her debut CD

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 24 Mar 2006 21:04:00 +0000

How do you write and sing jingles for national clients, sub for Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight when they can't make it, be an arranger, producer, music director, and first call studio singer without ever making your own CD? That's what everyone -- including me -- keeps asking Jenny Jordan Frogley. It's totally pop this week on The Cricket & Seagull...

The Miracles of the Santiago, Chile Temple Rededication

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 15:35:00 +0000

A live telephone interview from Santiago, Chile, reporting on the recent rededication of the Santiago Temple. Brad Wilcox is an Educator, a BYU Professor, an author of published books and magzine articles, a sought-after speaker for Church Educational System programs like Especially for Youth and Education Week, a husband of one, father of four, and currently serving as mission president of 130 in the Chile Santiago East Mission, where he and wife Debi have been for the last 2 1/2 years. Today we talk to him about missionary work, the temple rededication, and small personal miracles. That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

"The Miracle" - with Jenny Phillips

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 10 Mar 2006 16:49:00 +0000

With nearly 200 firesides, concerts, or other performances a year -- often with a full choir -- Jenny Phillips must be the hardest working woman in LDS music. Now she releases her newest CD, "The Miracle," a journey with the Apostle Peter. That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

"Better Than I" with Jessie Clark Funk

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 20:30:00 +0000

In 2003 she released her first CD,Clay in His Hands, which won four Pearl Awards from the Faith-Centered Music Association -- Inspirational Album of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year, New Artist of the Year, and Inspirational Recording of the Year for the title song. Now Jessie Clark Funk shares her newest collection of contemporary inspirational music, Better Than I. That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull...

Marvin Payne - Mormon Troubadour

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 03 Feb 2006 16:14:00 +0000

If you invited Marvin Payne to your house and had him sing songs and tell why he wrote them, it would sound a lot like this. That's because I invited Marvin Payne to my house and had him sing songs and tell why he wrote them. But the best part is that I recorded it so you could enjoy too. I bet you'll like it. That's this week, on the Cricket and Seagull...

"Standing on the Promises" with Darius Gray & Margaret Blair Young

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 02 Feb 2006 16:08:00 +0000

An encore broadcast in commemoration of Black History Month. Margaret Blair Young and Darius Gray are the authors of a trilogy of books on Black LDS History, called "Standing on the Promises." The books, each named for an African American spiritual, are "One More River to Cross," "Bound for Canaan," and "The Last Mile of the Way." They take us on a remarkable journey from the 1800's to the present -- revealing an African-American presence in the LDS church from its very beginnings. This is a history that until now was largely known only to those remarkable saints who lived it. That's this week, on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

"Within" with pianist William Joseph

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 27 Jan 2006 15:57:00 +0000

Some people say success is all in who you know, others say it's just a lucky break. But for most people, success is being prepared and ready when someone you know introduces you to a lucky break and it's all up to you. It's "the overnight success," that only comes after years of work and dedication. This week we feature "Within," the first release from Pianist, Performer, Composer, and Warner Bros. recording artist William Joseph, who -- when the moment came for his "lucky break," delivered the goods. That's this week, on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

"A New Song" with George Dyer

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 20 Jan 2006 15:54:00 +0000

If you were an operatic tenor, had a list of leading roles a page long, had sung multiple solos with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and had two successful recordings of sacred hymns, what would you do next? This week we feature "A New Song," the latest release from George Dyer. I also reached the co-producers of this contemporary classical CD -- Kurt Bestor from the studios of AM 820 in Salt Lake City and Staci Peters from... her car. Don't worry, she pulled over to talk. That's this week, on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

Clive Romney & the 2006 Primary Program Music

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 13 Jan 2006 16:19:00 +0000

Clive Romney -- writer of the favorite children's song "Scripture Power" has a list of credits a mile long, more than 2,000 live performances under his belt, and plays about a dozen instruments -- well, I might add. But once a year he heads into the studio to produce a CD of the Primary Program songs for the coming year. We'll show you what's he's been up to for 2006, hear his philosophy on arranging for children, and even sneak in a few moments from the latest recording with his spectacular Pearl Award-winning instrumental group, Enoch Train. That's this week, on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

"Believe In Him" with Earl Madsen & Greg Hansen

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 06 Jan 2006 16:24:00 +0000

Okay, here's a challenge; choose 15 songs your kids like and you like too. Harder? How about 15 inspirational or church songs your kids like and you like too? That's exactly the challenge taken on by today's guests; award-winning arranger/producer and Meridian columnist Greg Hansen, and Earl Madsen, A&R (that's Artists and Repertoire) for Sounds of Zion and Inspirational Music Showcase. We'll give you a preview of their label's latest recording and you can hear how they did -- or maybe you should let your kids hear how they did. That's this week, on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP

"The Life of Lucy Mack Smith" Part 2 - with Scot & Maurine Proctor

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 30 Dec 2005 17:57:00 +0000

For years the original manuscript of "The History of Joseph Smith, Jr. by His Mother, Lucy Mack Smith" was lost, but once it was recovered, Scot and Maurine Proctor, editors and publishers of Meridian Magazine, combed through the manuscript to restore Lucy's fascinating original narrative. With the addition of maps, nearly a hundred photographs, and painstaking endnotes, "The Revised and Enhanced History of Joseph Smith, Jr. by His Mother" has become the authoritative edition of this historical treasure. This week we bring you Part 2 from a presentation Scot & Maurine Proctor gave in June of 2005 at "This Is The Place Heritage Park" at the mouth of Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake City, Utah, including a very informative Q & A session. (See July 2005 Archives for Part 1.) Thanks for listening! -SKP

"Let the Morning Come" with Janice Kapp Perry and Lynne Perry Christofferson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 16 Dec 2005 18:03:00 +0000

This past April marked one-hundred and seventy-five years since the founding of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and -- on December 23rd of this year -- two-hundred years since the birth of it's prophet-founder, Joseph Smith. Today we trace the life of the prophet and celebrate the restoration musically with two of my favorite guests, my mother and my sister, Janice Kapp Perry and Lynne Perry Christofferson. Thanks for listening! - SKP

Ardeth Greene Kapp - her new biography

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 08 Dec 2005 18:09:00 +0000

This Week: Ardeth Kapp. When you think of the Young Women Program in the LDS Church today, you think of personal progress books, class medallions, even values, seven colors, and -- most strikingly -- Young Women around the globe standing together and saying, "We are daughters of a Heavenly Father who loves us, and we love Him..." Today we talk to Ardeth Kapp about her childhood on the Canadian Prairie, the origins of the Young Women's Values program, and hope for everyone who faces unexpected challenges... in other words, all of us. Thanks for listening! - SKP

"Parley P. Pratt's Greatest Hymns" with Roger Hoffman & Pete Peterson

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 23 Sep 2005 17:14:00 +0000

Parley P. Pratt. Even his name is interesting. Minister, missionary, poet, author, and Apostle; he lived only 50 years, but left a powerful legacy including an autobiography and some 50 hymn texts -- many of which are still favorites of the Saints. Now "Parley P. Pratt's Greatest Hymns" gives new arrangements to these favorites, and musical life to many others for the first time. The writers, arrangers, and producers for this project are Pete Peterson and Roger Hoffman. Pete is former Executive Vice President of WordPerfect Corporation, currently a volunteer with the Perpetual Education Fund, who says he would have been an excellent musician except for his problems with rhythm and intonation. Roger is is a Clio and Peabody Award-winning songwriter, singer, and arranger -- the writer of "Consider the Lilies," a Tabernacle Choir favorite. Today we talk to Roger and Pete about bringing the hymn texts of Parley P. Pratt to life. Thanks for listening! - SKP

"The Life of Lucy Mack Smith" Part 1 - with Scot & Maurine Proctor

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 22 Jul 2005 13:54:00 +0000

For years the original manuscript of "The History of Joseph Smith, Jr. by His Mother, Lucy Mack Smith" was lost, but once it was recovered, Scot and Maurine Proctor, editors and publishers of Meridian Magazine, combed through the manuscript to restore Lucy's fascinating original narrative. With the addition of maps, nearly a hundred photographs, and painstaking endnotes, "The Revised and Enhanced History of Joseph Smith, Jr. by His Mother" has become the authoritative edition of this historical treasure. This week we bring you excerpts from a longer presentation Scot & Maurine Proctor gave in June of 2005 at "This Is The Place Heritage Park" at the mouth of Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake City, Utah. (See Dec 2005 Archives for Part 2.) Thanks for listening! - SKP

"Day of Praise" with Hilary Weeks

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 23 Jun 2005 14:43:00 +0000

What if you were given a major project to get done in just one year, but you could only do it in the cracks -- those small stretches of 15 to 20 minutes between meetings, family events, and everything else you're doing already? That was the challenge for Hilary Weeks; singer, songwriter, Deseret Book recording artist, and mother of four--including a new baby. "Day of Praise" is her latest -- a collection of musical moments found in the cracks and corners of an already full life. - SKP

"Beneath These Stars" with Cherie Call

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Thu, 21 Apr 2005 18:37:00 +0000

If you tried to write a resume for Cherie Call, you'd have to use small print and single space and you'd still be hard pressed to get it on a page. But, of course, all of that is really beside the point. You just watch her pick up guitar, fiddle with the tuning for a bit, and then sit back and melt into the stories -- because that's really what her songs are, and a storyteller is really who she is when she sings them. This edition features songs from "Beneath These Stars," the latest release from Cherie Call on Shadow Mountain.

"Ephraim's Harp -- Saints Bound for Heaven" with Lisa DeSpain

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 21 Jan 2005 00:25:00 +0000

She was raised in Orem, UT, but found her home in Manhattan via Texas and Louisiana. When she's not busy as a free-lance composer she conducts, arranges, plays jazz keyboards and works with everyone from the Grateful Dead to her ward choir and Ephraim's Harp. For this edition I reached Lisa DeSpain at her NYC apartment and talked about everything from the new Ephraim's Harp CD "Saints Bound for Heaven" to Shape Note singing to the new temple in Manhattan and being a New Yorker through 9/11.

The New Church Music Website - with David Warner & Diane Bastian

info@wordofmouthmedia.net (Steven Kapp Perry) — Fri, 09 Jul 2004 15:40:00 +0000

David T. Warner is director of Music and Cultural Arts for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Previous to his appointment he was a faculty member at Brigham Young University in the David O. McKay School of Education and the School of Music, and artistic director of Boise Opera and the Film Actors Theatre of Los Angeles. He holds a Ph.D. in theater and film and also did graduate work in music at Indiana University. He has directed television specials seen nationally on PBS, as well as film, professional theatre, musical theatre, and opera. Recent projects include Savior of the World in the Conference Center Theater, and Light of the World, produced by the Church for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. His original texts have been published by Oxford University Press and recorded on the Telarc, Clarion, and Mormon Tabernacle Choir labels. Brother Warner is married to Allison Hickman and they are the parents of two boys. Diane Bastian grew up in Buhl, ID, the daughter of Lowell and Alta Roskelley. She received a degree in piano performance from Brigham Young University and has taught piano and organ since she was 15. Diane has spent much of her time as a piano accompanist, working with choirs and soloists ranging from young Suzuki violinists to professional musicians. She works as an administrative assistant in the Music and Cultural Arts Division of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints. She married Larry Bastian, and they have seven children and 14 grandchildren. In her limited spare time she enjoys making afghans, walking, and reading. Link to the Church Music website: http://www.lds.org/churchmusic That's this week on the Cricket and Seagull... - SKP