Our final moments of Break Forth were filled with
learning, friendship, creativity, and extraordinary beauty.
The bracelets are off. Break Forth is done for another year.
Learning...
We studied "Songs that Impact" with Paul Baloche, and "Taking Your Worship Band to the Next Level" and "Harmony and Improvisation" with Sheri Gould. So much incredible information, and so appropriate for where we are now with our writing and worship leading. Sheri's harmony workshop was particularly awesome. Her approach to ear training and singing harmony was really effective and musical.
Friendship...
I think this is the year that we've met the most people at Break Forth. So much of today was filled with wonderful conversations with new and old friends. We met people from across Alberta, learning about their churches and lives.
Creativity...
At October's GMA Week, we met Natalie, a singer-songwriter from Edmonton. This afternoon, she and Gerald grabbed a guitar, found a piano in the hallway of the Shaw Centre, and started writing a song. They'll finish it over skype, but they definitely started something good.
Extraordinary Beauty...
There's been so much loveliness this weekend. Talented musicians making stunning sounds. Inspiring songs. Beautiful faces in worship. Bright sunshine, and laughter in restaurants. The closing worship session ended with a rousing rendition of "How Great Thou Art" led by Paul Baloche. The band created an awesome, joyful ending, and as the final chord lingered, Paul led the worshippers in one more chorus. Thousands of voices singing "Then sings my soul..." in glorious acapella harmony. Beauty beyond compare...
This weekend has been so full for us. We've learned so much already, taken so much in, and I know we'll be feeling the vibrations for months.
Full of gratitude tonight...