The Music of Black History Month (3)

Traditional spirituals are the songs that come to my mind when I think of music representing Black History Month. In reality, this one style of music has, over many decades, grown, evolved and definitely influenced a lot of other music. Jazz and gospel are 2 styles that can claim roots in early spirituals.

Choirs all over the world have traditional spirituals in their repertoire. One very moving experience I had a couple years ago was hearing a recording of the Men's choir from the Theological Seminary in Cluj, Romania. This choir is led by Canadian Brian Johnston who is sponsored by the Presbyterian Church in Canada, and teaches English and Music at the seminary. The choir toured eastern Canada from Sept. 20-Oct. 10, 2006 and the recording was made during their visit to PCC offices in Toronto. You can listen to it by going to: www.choir.tk/. You will find the video clip under "Table of Contents - Choir Tour 2006". I hope you enjoy their rendition as much as I do.

The Music of Black History Month (2)

When you think of 'global music' in worship what comes to mind? I think back to my childhood and the only 'global' song I can remember singing in church circles was Kumbaya. Maybe there were others, but what I recall is music of British, European or N. American origin. How the world has changed! World travel and communication has made our lives so much more global in scope, and music is no exception. We have access to songs and hymns from all over the world which I feel can only enhance our worship and add to our knowledge of and love for our Christian brothers and sisters in other countries. We are family!

Kudos to the editors, staff and volunteers who worked together to present The Book of Praise (c. 1997) for use in the Presbyterian Church in Canada. I feel they have done an excellent job in bringing more global music to the attention of worshipers across the country. I counted 8 songs from various African countries and traditions, not to mention many other languages and countries which are also included.

For the month of February, we have been using #388 Come, O Holy Spirit, come as our Gathering Song. This piece is from Nigeria. We are singing it in English to make it easily accessible, but the original words and a French translation are also printed. Take the leap! Try adding some global music to your worship and see where God's Spirit will lead you.