Motivating this project is the observation that in many of our churches, singing limps along with little apparent spirit. My further observation is that among those congregations who recognize a need for spirited music, many assume that the only available solution is a heavy dose of “Praise Music,” even when they question whether such choruses are a good fit stylistically or theologically. Others assume transformative music can only happen with a large and unattainable budget.

My proposal is to explore the transformative power of congregational singing for congregations, with a special ear for alternatives to “praise” choruses and a sensitivity to churches (like mine) that are stretched for resources. I want to do this project because large numbers of American churches need revitalizing, and my experience convinces me that congregational singing can be transformative.

I approach this project with experience as a professional musician and song-writer, a long tenure with a congregation that has itself transformed dramatically (and keeps transforming), a decade of teaching worship and music at Andover-Newton, and lessons from leading an array of workshops. I look to deepen my understanding through a plan of study, writing, visiting and recording. More specifically, I seek to draw from past experience and proposed explorations to identify a short list of guidelines for enlivening congregational song, and then articulate these ideas in a pamphlet-sized article. I also plan to record an album of 10-12 original songs for congregational use, with accompanying sheet music.

I will make these resources available through workshops in the Boston area, a synod gathering in the upper Midwest, a “Record Release Party” at church, a new class at Andover Newton, and online availability of the booklet, the sheet music, and the album. My prayer is that the study, the words and the music might be one small part of unleashing the Song of God that lives within us all.