Forum on Music and Christian Scholarship

Thoughtful Programming and Presentation of Creative Classical Christian Concerts

Kate Butler, University of Nebraska – Lincoln

It is possible to present a Christian concert or recital with creativity and excellence which engages the audience and serves a higher purpose. Through thoughtful musical programming, spoken words, and inclusion of scripture and poetry, we may craft an experience which serves the Creator, the music, the text, and the audience, and which invites audience members to join the performer in a spiritual journey. I will provide specific examples of concert planning, including performance of some repertoire to serve as illustration.

I will explore the questions: How does an artist provide a spiritual experience for the audience? Can a performer glorify God and not his/her own ego without sacrificing musical and artistic excellence?