I am delighted to speak about the many generous, hard-working, and creative musicians at First Parish as we close out the church year. I think of all the music that was presented as worship that helped to make this a transformational year. I refuse to name names because I could err by omitting someone. There are singers, players of Classical music, players of band music. There are soloists and ensemble players. There are those who created our monthly Vespers. There are those who spoke eloquently about the role music plays in their lives. I thank them all because they make us a community of artists that think “outside the box” and change the world. We cannot adequately state how much they give to our collaborative efforts.
We will be hearing the band, who are providing music for our flower communion service on June 18th—and this right after sharing five songs for the Variety Show recently!
This was a banner year for our First Parish choir, with more voices, committed to learning challenging music. As I plan for next year, I am just excited.
I thank all of you who listen and appreciate and share the transformation. Music must be shared to complete the circle, so to speak. Music comes alive in the ears and hearts of those who listen. For most of us, Sunday music is our most consistent infusion of live music. What a gift that it lives in our imagination beyond the day and thus enhances our spiritual lives.
Music will be a part of summer services at First Parish. Stay tuned, as always!
With much love and appreciation,
Charlyn
Charlyn Bethell
Charlyn’s professional training has followed two paths: as a professional oboist and as a music teacher and conductor. As Music Director at First Parish, she joins these two paths of her musical life, conducting the choir, coordinating guest musicians, and performing on oboe.