"Music and the Arts"
by Dr. Robert W. Sopo, Director of Music

“A New Season Before Us!”

Ever wondered why nothing begins on January 1 but the beginning of a new calendar year…and a renewed commitment to New Year’s resolutions? Football starts in August, schools (from K through college) start in September, hockey starts in October, as does basketball; baseball starts in April…..and the church ‘program activities’ season start in September!

Summer has gone by quickly, and we are on the verge of another new season of music activities at LPC. But musically, summer was an active time at LPC. - there was a variety of music to listen to in and around the church -the gospel quartet “Stronghold” blessed our worship service with their music in June; our Praise Band performed recitals in the park and in the church in July; the Hoosier Harmony Quartet shared their music in a program on Friday evening, and presented the worship service Sunday morning in August; and a quartet of members from the Chancel Choir provided Ministry in Music during worship in August. Music for all “tastes”.

With a new church calendar season upon us, I am “calling” all musicians and those with a musical interest to come forth! There are several activities where I am sure you can find a spot from which to share your music talent. Specifically:
- on Thursdays at 6:45 PM (beginning September 9) Chancel Choir practices begin in the Choir/Music Rehearsal Room in the lower level. In air-conditioned comfort we practice choral music from the classics to the contemporary, accompanied by keyboard, or more frequently now by a CD-accompaniment track. On the 9th we also will begin rehearsals for the Christmas cantata;
- on Thursdays at 8 PM (beginning September 16) the Celebration Ringers handbell ensemble practices begin in the sanctuary.
- on Sunday, October 10 at 9 AM the Music Department will be involved in the Faith in Action outreach program of the church by spending an hour singing the old hymn favorites at the nursing home not far from the church;
- on Wednesday, November 25 the Chancel Choir and the Celebration Ringers will participate in the annual community Thanksgiving service;
- on Sunday, December 13 (the third Sunday in Advent), the Chancel Choir presents the Christmas Cantata during the worship service.

Ministry in Music is an important part of worship, and in addition to the weekly choral presentations, there is opportunity for anyone who wants to sing a solo, perform in a duet, trio or quartet, play an instrument, form an ensemble, etc. Just let me know your interest and preferred date.

Contemporary-style worship service at 10:30 AM Sunday mornings provides opportunity to be part of an alternate musical style in worship, one that includes drums; guitars – lead, rhythm and bass; keyboards (synths); and vocal lead. Interested in that form of music in worship? Let me, or Jonathan, or any member of the Praise Band, know of your interest. We are ready and willing to accept new members into the ensemble as we develop synergy to lead the contemporary worship services.

Yes, a new music season at LPC begins September 1. Our motto - “…make a joyful noise unto the Lord, our rock, our shield and our defender….let all things that hath breath praise the Lord!” Won’t you come join us? The rewards are out of this world!

Whether participating or just enjoying, Linden Presbyterian Church offers a variety of Musical opportunities.

From September through June the Chancel Choir, led by Director of Music Dr. Rob Sopo, is an integral part of the 9:00 AM service with a new anthem each week as well as service music.

The Praise Team enhances the 10:30 AM service with contemporary music accompanied by singers, guitars, keyboard, drums and bass.

The LPC Handbell Ensemble rings a beautiful 3-octave set of handbells which can be played by a full complement of ringers, a small group, or solo.

We also encourage special music from our Children's Choir; and from members of the congregation who play an instrument, sing in a small group or solo.

Remember - everyone is welcome to join in as we make a joyful noise to the Lord!