This interest session explores frameworks for fostering intentional creativity in music ministry that both speaks to and expands the congregation’s sense of their collective musical identity. These ideas encourage church musicians to embrace their congregation’s traditions while prompting them to consider in what ways those traditions can be celebrated and supplemented. While many music professionals rely on choral repertoire choice as the primary vehicle for creativity, this session highlights other avenues for creativity, including the use of ensembles and soloists, hymnody, summer scholarship programs that engage youth, and ideas for designing a concert series. This session addresses a wide range of ideas for all budgetary levels, and also speaks to the role of the organist/pianist in facilitating worship. Attendees of this session should leave the session with new ideas about how to approach programming in their music ministry as well as some concrete ideas to implement in their churches.
Switching It Up: Thoughtful Creativity in Music Ministry
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Elizabeth Bemis-Gatter
Christ Church Cathedral
Elizabeth Bemis-Gatter serves as the Organist/Choirmaster at Christ Church Cathedral in Mobile, AL. She has a diverse background as a vocalist, music educator, and church musician in a variety of denominations. Elizabeth has previously presented at a number of conferences, including The Voice Foundation. Elizabeth holds a M.M. degree in Voice Pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory and is pursuing a D.M.A. degree in Vocal Performance and Worship Leadership from the University of Mobile. While her formal education is in voice, she enjoys the complexity of playing the pipe organ and working as a collaborative pianist.
