Today, I:
- Shared the rough mixes from last week's recording session with Tara and got great feedback!
- Brainstormed with Gerald about future creative plans.
- Made a worktape of my long-distance, Song U cowrite.
- Signed up to take a Song U class with Sue Smith on "Writing for the Christian Market."
- Made steps towards a possible booking next month.
- Planned our music set for Sunday morning.
- Relaxed and enjoyed the blessings of the day!
Good day...
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Home from the retreat!
Last week, I warned people not to call me today. Judging by my sore throat and the very long nap I took today, it was probably a wise decision.
This morning was another early one. The toile bed was glorious, and the only thing that made crawling out of it worthwhile was the stunning view from the balcony. The lake was calm, one person was fishing, and the birds were just starting their song. I love city living, but I would be really happy with this kind of view every morning.
The only thing on the retreat schedule for today was a Holy Communion service. Kendra was the worship leader, and I joined her on vocals. Because the weather was so stunning, we pulled all the chairs out on the large deck and held the service outside. So stunning! The sun was shining with just a gentle breeze. Instead of a sermon, we were given a time to reflect on the weekend. We sat in a circle, and gave communion to each other.
The music was gentle and spiritual. We did great songs like "As the Deer" and "Knowing You." On "Eat this Bread," I sang alto, and thought of the hundreds of times I sang it with Monika singing that same line.
Lake Barkley is so beautiful, and if I didn't have to work tomorrow, I would pack up Gerald and the puppies and drive us all out there again tonight!
This morning was another early one. The toile bed was glorious, and the only thing that made crawling out of it worthwhile was the stunning view from the balcony. The lake was calm, one person was fishing, and the birds were just starting their song. I love city living, but I would be really happy with this kind of view every morning.
The only thing on the retreat schedule for today was a Holy Communion service. Kendra was the worship leader, and I joined her on vocals. Because the weather was so stunning, we pulled all the chairs out on the large deck and held the service outside. So stunning! The sun was shining with just a gentle breeze. Instead of a sermon, we were given a time to reflect on the weekend. We sat in a circle, and gave communion to each other.
The music was gentle and spiritual. We did great songs like "As the Deer" and "Knowing You." On "Eat this Bread," I sang alto, and thought of the hundreds of times I sang it with Monika singing that same line.
Lake Barkley is so beautiful, and if I didn't have to work tomorrow, I would pack up Gerald and the puppies and drive us all out there again tonight!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Redeemer Women's Retreat
(Posted after the fact - no internet connection in the woods!)
I’m dragging my fingers across the keyboard. It’s been a long but very satisfying day.
Last night and this morning (early this morning!) I was a judge for the TN Fine Arts Competition. It’s basically like a Christian talent competition, where junior high and high school students get the chance to present different kinds of creative ministries. I judged some of the drama categories, and it was really fun. It’s always neat to see what happens when you give kids a chance to tell stories for themselves.
After this morning’s session, I packed up the car, picked up Sally Barris, and drove out to Cadiz, KY, for the Redeemer Women’s Retreat. I’m currently sitting in what only can be called a hotel room in Lake Barkley State Park. People keep saying we’re camping, and let me tell you, if this was camping, I’d be camping all the time! Our room looks like an HGTV version of “rustic chic” - dark stained walls, toile comforters that match the imitation-silk gingham curtains, and a granite and slate lined 3-piece bath. The true piece de resistance: each room has a private balcony and a completely clear view of the lake. Truly stunning!
Sally and I arrived just in time to rehearse with Jenna and Kendra for tonight’s sessions. Crazy rushed, but we worked with the time we had. I had a glorious 25 minutes to sit by the lake. The water was calm, and three fish jumped right in front of me. My kingdom for a pole!
At supper we ate BBQ and banana pudding, and chatted with the Redeemer ladies. It was easy to tell they’d been having a good time - everyone looked beautiful and relaxed. Laughter dominated the conversation.
Right after the meal, we gathered for our evening worship set, which I was leading. Jenna and Kendra filled out the all-girl praise team. Jenna had really blessed me by entrusting me with the leadership position, and it was somewhat intimating to lead with her on the team, but it all worked out so well. She and I have learned each other’s signals, so once I allowed myself to get out of the way, things flowed beautifully. We did a four praise songs, included a little acapella group singing, and Kendra ended the set with prayer. It was powerful and awesome!
After our Bible study session (Ruth - one of my favourites!), Sally and Jenna did a mini-concert. In the rehearsal today, they asked if I knew “Down to the River to Pray,” so tonight, we did it acapella in 3-part harmony. Our voices blended so well! We’ve decided we need to find another song or 2 and do it again some time. Sally did some of her originals, which were fantastic, and then they lead us in a hymn sing. We’d put all the chairs in a circle, campfire-style, and it was lovely to look around the circle and see all the beautiful faces. For the last song, “In Christ Alone,” Jenna called up Kendra and me to sing along. By the end of it, all the ladies were on their feet and the energy was too strong to stop, so we broke out in a round of Michael W. Smith’s “Angus Dei”. So awesome!
As we packed up the sound system (our SoloAmp!) and mics, some ladies prayed, others laughed, and other just hugged and talked about the beauty of the weekend. After the room cleared, Kendra and I did a quick rehearsal for tomorrow morning. I’ve now been on the go almost 18 hours. I’m tired. My voice is tired. My feet are tired, but I feel so good and satisfied and relaxed. Looking forward to climbing into my fluffy bed and dreaming of fishing...
I’m dragging my fingers across the keyboard. It’s been a long but very satisfying day.
Last night and this morning (early this morning!) I was a judge for the TN Fine Arts Competition. It’s basically like a Christian talent competition, where junior high and high school students get the chance to present different kinds of creative ministries. I judged some of the drama categories, and it was really fun. It’s always neat to see what happens when you give kids a chance to tell stories for themselves.
After this morning’s session, I packed up the car, picked up Sally Barris, and drove out to Cadiz, KY, for the Redeemer Women’s Retreat. I’m currently sitting in what only can be called a hotel room in Lake Barkley State Park. People keep saying we’re camping, and let me tell you, if this was camping, I’d be camping all the time! Our room looks like an HGTV version of “rustic chic” - dark stained walls, toile comforters that match the imitation-silk gingham curtains, and a granite and slate lined 3-piece bath. The true piece de resistance: each room has a private balcony and a completely clear view of the lake. Truly stunning!
Sally and I arrived just in time to rehearse with Jenna and Kendra for tonight’s sessions. Crazy rushed, but we worked with the time we had. I had a glorious 25 minutes to sit by the lake. The water was calm, and three fish jumped right in front of me. My kingdom for a pole!
At supper we ate BBQ and banana pudding, and chatted with the Redeemer ladies. It was easy to tell they’d been having a good time - everyone looked beautiful and relaxed. Laughter dominated the conversation.
Right after the meal, we gathered for our evening worship set, which I was leading. Jenna and Kendra filled out the all-girl praise team. Jenna had really blessed me by entrusting me with the leadership position, and it was somewhat intimating to lead with her on the team, but it all worked out so well. She and I have learned each other’s signals, so once I allowed myself to get out of the way, things flowed beautifully. We did a four praise songs, included a little acapella group singing, and Kendra ended the set with prayer. It was powerful and awesome!
After our Bible study session (Ruth - one of my favourites!), Sally and Jenna did a mini-concert. In the rehearsal today, they asked if I knew “Down to the River to Pray,” so tonight, we did it acapella in 3-part harmony. Our voices blended so well! We’ve decided we need to find another song or 2 and do it again some time. Sally did some of her originals, which were fantastic, and then they lead us in a hymn sing. We’d put all the chairs in a circle, campfire-style, and it was lovely to look around the circle and see all the beautiful faces. For the last song, “In Christ Alone,” Jenna called up Kendra and me to sing along. By the end of it, all the ladies were on their feet and the energy was too strong to stop, so we broke out in a round of Michael W. Smith’s “Angus Dei”. So awesome!
As we packed up the sound system (our SoloAmp!) and mics, some ladies prayed, others laughed, and other just hugged and talked about the beauty of the weekend. After the room cleared, Kendra and I did a quick rehearsal for tomorrow morning. I’ve now been on the go almost 18 hours. I’m tired. My voice is tired. My feet are tired, but I feel so good and satisfied and relaxed. Looking forward to climbing into my fluffy bed and dreaming of fishing...
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Studio Day!
Okay, now I'm home, I'm still tired, but I have to blog about yesterday before all my memories slip away.
Yesterday, we gathered at the Soundshop on Music Row to record tracks for my new hymns CD. After our Monday rehearsal, I was very confident about the music, but I still had some nerves in the morning. How could I not? Tracking days are always expensive, and you hope and pray that you'll get everything you need in the time you have.
The Soundshop is an amazing studio with a long pedigree. Last summer, Aaron and Johnny Minick bought it and snazzed it up. We were in the smaller Studio B, which is cozy and intimate - the perfect place to record this music. Aaron was there to help us get set up, and my friend, Rebekah, has just started her internship there, so she spent time with us too.
Brian Speer played dual role of engineer/producer, and it was good to have a fresh set of ears hearing the songs. When Aaron heard a bit of "Just a Closer Walk", he pulled out this gorgeous old Gibson for Gerald to play. Ends up the guitar was once played by Chet Atkins. The piano Teri played was, over the course of its history, played by such people as Buddy Killen, Paul McCartney, and Ray Charles. Where else but Nashville?
Then, we started making the music, and it was awesome! We did the guitar songs first. It took a while to get all the sounds balanced (as it so often does) but once we got comfortable with things, it was great. The guitar songs had a lot of flair, and then we moved on to the really intimate piano songs. For most songs, we only did one or 2 takes. We'll do my vocals on a later date, so the most important thing was getting a gorgeous, moving instrumental take.
Once or twice, Teri would replay just a few bars and Brian would "punch it in". (Basically, it's like pasting that little section into the larger song.) But for the most part, every instrumental part you'll hear on the CD was done in one take. Amazing!
When we broke for lunch, we went across the street to the Pie Wagon for blackened chicken and chess pie. As we're walking in, 'Whispering' Bill Anderson was walking out. Ben Speer came to join us for lunch. A few minutes later, the Isaacs walked in. They were recording in Studio A, right across the hall from us. As I was sitting there, I had the most surreal moment. I thought, "I'm recording on Music Row," and it had all the excitement and aura and cool details that you think that moment is going to have. It was awesome and good.
At the end of the day, we had all the tracks, and they sounded excellent. I was tired - physically and vocally - but very, very satisfied. I'll get copies of the tracks on Friday, start rehearsing, and record the vocals in a few weeks. In case I haven't said this in a while: I love my job!
Yesterday, we gathered at the Soundshop on Music Row to record tracks for my new hymns CD. After our Monday rehearsal, I was very confident about the music, but I still had some nerves in the morning. How could I not? Tracking days are always expensive, and you hope and pray that you'll get everything you need in the time you have.
The Soundshop is an amazing studio with a long pedigree. Last summer, Aaron and Johnny Minick bought it and snazzed it up. We were in the smaller Studio B, which is cozy and intimate - the perfect place to record this music. Aaron was there to help us get set up, and my friend, Rebekah, has just started her internship there, so she spent time with us too.
Brian Speer played dual role of engineer/producer, and it was good to have a fresh set of ears hearing the songs. When Aaron heard a bit of "Just a Closer Walk", he pulled out this gorgeous old Gibson for Gerald to play. Ends up the guitar was once played by Chet Atkins. The piano Teri played was, over the course of its history, played by such people as Buddy Killen, Paul McCartney, and Ray Charles. Where else but Nashville?
Then, we started making the music, and it was awesome! We did the guitar songs first. It took a while to get all the sounds balanced (as it so often does) but once we got comfortable with things, it was great. The guitar songs had a lot of flair, and then we moved on to the really intimate piano songs. For most songs, we only did one or 2 takes. We'll do my vocals on a later date, so the most important thing was getting a gorgeous, moving instrumental take.
Once or twice, Teri would replay just a few bars and Brian would "punch it in". (Basically, it's like pasting that little section into the larger song.) But for the most part, every instrumental part you'll hear on the CD was done in one take. Amazing!
When we broke for lunch, we went across the street to the Pie Wagon for blackened chicken and chess pie. As we're walking in, 'Whispering' Bill Anderson was walking out. Ben Speer came to join us for lunch. A few minutes later, the Isaacs walked in. They were recording in Studio A, right across the hall from us. As I was sitting there, I had the most surreal moment. I thought, "I'm recording on Music Row," and it had all the excitement and aura and cool details that you think that moment is going to have. It was awesome and good.
At the end of the day, we had all the tracks, and they sounded excellent. I was tired - physically and vocally - but very, very satisfied. I'll get copies of the tracks on Friday, start rehearsing, and record the vocals in a few weeks. In case I haven't said this in a while: I love my job!
Quick studio update...
Yesterday was awesome! I was way too tired to write last night and I'm working for Ben today, but I'll write an update tonight. Awesome day!!!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Studio tomorrow!
Teri, Gerald, and I met this morning for our final hymns rehearsal. We made sure the arrangements are solid and the endings tight.
Tomorrow morning we're recording the tracks. We're actually recording on Music Row, which is pretty cool.
It'll be an early morning, so off to bed! Soooo excited!!!!
Tomorrow morning we're recording the tracks. We're actually recording on Music Row, which is pretty cool.
It'll be an early morning, so off to bed! Soooo excited!!!!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Easter recovery...
Yes, I've been in Easter recovery all week! Don't get me wrong - last weekend was amazing!
On Saturday, I attended a wonderful Seder meal at Redeemer. Sunday morning, Gerald and I led worship at Harpeth Springs. We planned some great songs for Easter, and we were joined by a great bass player. (We're hoping he'll join us again this Sunday!) I'd given up fast food for Lent so, after church, we broke the Fast Food Fast at Fat Mo's. Anyone who's eaten there knows you need a nap after, but we had to clean the house and glaze the ham! Sunday night, we hosted Easter dinner for 9 people. And before you give Gerald all the credit - I did the cooking!
It was an awesome day, and an incredible week, but I was just thoroughly exhausted after all of it. I had to work Monday morning, and I've just been tired all week. Tuesday I really wanted to nap all day, but Tara and I got all glammed up and headed out to Smyrna for the SGN Awards. It was really a fantastic show, and I got to see lots of friends. To be honest, it was actually a bit of a profound night for me. I don't know that I'm ready to write about it yet, but I may in a little while.
Today was the first day I was really feeling ready to get back to work (creative work, not day-job work), so it ended up being a wonderfully creative day! Gerald and I had a creative meeting this afternoon to discuss my CD and his demos. We try to have these meetings every week or 2. In them, we talk about our creative dreams, and then try to put together the steps to make them come true.
Gerald is developing an 8-song demo package that will be a mix of Christian and country songs. To keep things affordable, not all the songs will use a full band, so we'll probably use several studios to make the different demos. We're hoping to get at least 3 done before our next trip to Canada, and we'll post them online when we get them.
We're in the studio Tuesday to record the tracks for my hymns CD! So excited!! We're recording them right on Music Row, just steps from the hotel where we spent our honeymoon. On the day, we'll record the guitar and the piano, and I'll do a 'scratch' vocal. This basically means I'll sing along to guide Teri and Gerald, but we may not keep it. We'll focus on the musicians as opposed to spending our time getting the perfect vocal. (We'll do vocals at Brian's studio in a few weeks.)
Tonight, I worked on my part of a long distance cowrite. My partner sent me several lyrics, and I chose the one that sounded most Southern. I've written a melody that I think is pretty solid. I recorded a rough acapella verse/chorus (reminder: learn how to use Garage Band) and sent it to him. Hoping he likes it!
There's a lot to do over the next 10 days. In addition to recording next week, I'm also working for Ben, attending Bible study, judging at the TN Fine Arts competition, and leading worship at the Redeemer's women's retreat in Kentucky. Please don't call me next Sunday afternoon - my phone will be switched off!
On Saturday, I attended a wonderful Seder meal at Redeemer. Sunday morning, Gerald and I led worship at Harpeth Springs. We planned some great songs for Easter, and we were joined by a great bass player. (We're hoping he'll join us again this Sunday!) I'd given up fast food for Lent so, after church, we broke the Fast Food Fast at Fat Mo's. Anyone who's eaten there knows you need a nap after, but we had to clean the house and glaze the ham! Sunday night, we hosted Easter dinner for 9 people. And before you give Gerald all the credit - I did the cooking!
It was an awesome day, and an incredible week, but I was just thoroughly exhausted after all of it. I had to work Monday morning, and I've just been tired all week. Tuesday I really wanted to nap all day, but Tara and I got all glammed up and headed out to Smyrna for the SGN Awards. It was really a fantastic show, and I got to see lots of friends. To be honest, it was actually a bit of a profound night for me. I don't know that I'm ready to write about it yet, but I may in a little while.
Today was the first day I was really feeling ready to get back to work (creative work, not day-job work), so it ended up being a wonderfully creative day! Gerald and I had a creative meeting this afternoon to discuss my CD and his demos. We try to have these meetings every week or 2. In them, we talk about our creative dreams, and then try to put together the steps to make them come true.
Gerald is developing an 8-song demo package that will be a mix of Christian and country songs. To keep things affordable, not all the songs will use a full band, so we'll probably use several studios to make the different demos. We're hoping to get at least 3 done before our next trip to Canada, and we'll post them online when we get them.
We're in the studio Tuesday to record the tracks for my hymns CD! So excited!! We're recording them right on Music Row, just steps from the hotel where we spent our honeymoon. On the day, we'll record the guitar and the piano, and I'll do a 'scratch' vocal. This basically means I'll sing along to guide Teri and Gerald, but we may not keep it. We'll focus on the musicians as opposed to spending our time getting the perfect vocal. (We'll do vocals at Brian's studio in a few weeks.)
Tonight, I worked on my part of a long distance cowrite. My partner sent me several lyrics, and I chose the one that sounded most Southern. I've written a melody that I think is pretty solid. I recorded a rough acapella verse/chorus (reminder: learn how to use Garage Band) and sent it to him. Hoping he likes it!
There's a lot to do over the next 10 days. In addition to recording next week, I'm also working for Ben, attending Bible study, judging at the TN Fine Arts competition, and leading worship at the Redeemer's women's retreat in Kentucky. Please don't call me next Sunday afternoon - my phone will be switched off!
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Maundy Thursday
I decided last night to give myself today off. It's one of those things that I couldn't really afford to do, but I also couldn't afford not to. Now that I've hit the end of the day, it was definitely the right choice. I relaxed, spent time in a cafe with Tara, and had a long dinner out with Gerald.
Tonight I went to the Maundy Thursday service at Redeemer. It was awesome. We did Holy Communion, foot washing, and stripping the altar. The music was great, and the whole service was powerful and moving.
When I got home, Gerald and I rehearsed for Sunday morning. These are the songs we're doing:
Tonight I went to the Maundy Thursday service at Redeemer. It was awesome. We did Holy Communion, foot washing, and stripping the altar. The music was great, and the whole service was powerful and moving.
When I got home, Gerald and I rehearsed for Sunday morning. These are the songs we're doing:
- Holy is the Lord (Chris Tomlin)
- Above All (Paul Baloche)
- In Christ Alone (Stuart Townsend)
- Angus Dei (Michael W. Smith)
- Worthy is the Lamb (Darlene Zschech)
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
SoGo Central Nashville
Tonight I sang at the SoGo Central Nashville Dinner Theatre. It's a neat little community theatre where they do lots of plays and musicals, and for the last few months, it's been the home of monthly Southern Gospel concerts.
My Stamps-Baxter friend, Brandon Andrews, has been the host, so I was thrilled for the invite to come and sing a few songs. I was also excited because I'm big fans of the headliners for the night - Mike and Kelly Bowling. For the uninitiated, Mike and Kelly are a husband-wife team who have built one of the hottest trios in SG today. They have a great sound and they choose great songs - last year's "Your Cries Have Awoken the Master" was Singing News #1 song for 2008.
I opened the show with "Neighbour" and "Real Big Fan", and both went well. Brandon did a great set with his huge, powerful vocals and awesome songs. Then Gerald and I did our new arrangement of "Just a Closer Walk" and we had the crowd singing along. Mike and Kelly gave a great show with stunning vocals, and an easy, friendly stage presence. They're awesome to listen to, and just so comfortable to watch.
After the show, we got to chat with the audience, staff, and other artists. "Just a Closer" got terrific feedback, so I'm even more excited about putting it on the new CD. Overall, there was a really positive feeling from everyone. Hope we can do it again soon!
My Stamps-Baxter friend, Brandon Andrews, has been the host, so I was thrilled for the invite to come and sing a few songs. I was also excited because I'm big fans of the headliners for the night - Mike and Kelly Bowling. For the uninitiated, Mike and Kelly are a husband-wife team who have built one of the hottest trios in SG today. They have a great sound and they choose great songs - last year's "Your Cries Have Awoken the Master" was Singing News #1 song for 2008.
I opened the show with "Neighbour" and "Real Big Fan", and both went well. Brandon did a great set with his huge, powerful vocals and awesome songs. Then Gerald and I did our new arrangement of "Just a Closer Walk" and we had the crowd singing along. Mike and Kelly gave a great show with stunning vocals, and an easy, friendly stage presence. They're awesome to listen to, and just so comfortable to watch.
After the show, we got to chat with the audience, staff, and other artists. "Just a Closer" got terrific feedback, so I'm even more excited about putting it on the new CD. Overall, there was a really positive feeling from everyone. Hope we can do it again soon!
Sunday, April 05, 2009
Happy Palm Sunday!
I love Palm Sunday! Actually, I love all of Holy Week. I have Bible study on Wednesday, but I'm planning to attend church on Thursday and Friday evenings. I'm also doing a cool reading this week. Max Lucado's "And the Angels Were Silent" covers the final days of Christ as recorded in Matthew. The chapters are all broken down for the days of the week, so this week, I'll read it according to the days of Holy Week.
This morning was a first for us - we each sang at different churches! Gerald was back at Harpeth Springs, where he lead worship by himself for the first time! He was a bit nervous (aren't we all the first time?) but by all accounts, it went well. For the final song, he did his new song, "The Good Tree," which talks about the tree that would become the cross. Awesome song!
I was on the praise team at Redeemer. We had a fairly large group with 7 of us on the team, and 2 more coming up to sing in a quintet for the offertory. I sang "Go to Dark Gethsemane" from the red Anglican hymnal during communion, and it went really well. The whole service was pretty awesome, and we got a tremendous amount of feedback after the service.
Busy week ahead! Must rest up so I'm good for the whole week!
This morning was a first for us - we each sang at different churches! Gerald was back at Harpeth Springs, where he lead worship by himself for the first time! He was a bit nervous (aren't we all the first time?) but by all accounts, it went well. For the final song, he did his new song, "The Good Tree," which talks about the tree that would become the cross. Awesome song!
I was on the praise team at Redeemer. We had a fairly large group with 7 of us on the team, and 2 more coming up to sing in a quintet for the offertory. I sang "Go to Dark Gethsemane" from the red Anglican hymnal during communion, and it went really well. The whole service was pretty awesome, and we got a tremendous amount of feedback after the service.
Busy week ahead! Must rest up so I'm good for the whole week!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Awesome rehearsal!
Gerald, Teri, and I met this morning to continue our hymns rehearsal.
We started with the 2 guitar songs. When Gerald and I were in Alabama earlier this month, we came up with a really cool arrangement for "Just a Closer Walk." It's got a really cool groove, and Teri is going to play a little solo near the end that's jazzy and fun. Then we worked on the classic "Give Me Jesus." I've really fallen in love with this song, and I imagined singing it with a very simply guitar arrangement. When we were rehearsing last night, Gerald started doing this cool tapping thing with the guitar. Instead of strumming or plucking the strings, he taps them with the tips of his fingers, giving them a ringing, sustained kind of sound. Add in a little piano, and the whole thing sounds so beautiful! I had chills while we were working on it. I am sooo excited about this one!
Next, Gerald got to hear what Teri and I have been working on. It was great getting to touch the songs again. We don't want to overwork them before we get in the studio, but playing them again today allowed us to settle into them a little more. We found some beautiful moments, and most of it is just so pretty and simple.
We need to book a studio day soon for the tracks, but I don't think that'll happen til after Easter. I get more and more excited each time we take another step on this project!
We started with the 2 guitar songs. When Gerald and I were in Alabama earlier this month, we came up with a really cool arrangement for "Just a Closer Walk." It's got a really cool groove, and Teri is going to play a little solo near the end that's jazzy and fun. Then we worked on the classic "Give Me Jesus." I've really fallen in love with this song, and I imagined singing it with a very simply guitar arrangement. When we were rehearsing last night, Gerald started doing this cool tapping thing with the guitar. Instead of strumming or plucking the strings, he taps them with the tips of his fingers, giving them a ringing, sustained kind of sound. Add in a little piano, and the whole thing sounds so beautiful! I had chills while we were working on it. I am sooo excited about this one!
Next, Gerald got to hear what Teri and I have been working on. It was great getting to touch the songs again. We don't want to overwork them before we get in the studio, but playing them again today allowed us to settle into them a little more. We found some beautiful moments, and most of it is just so pretty and simple.
We need to book a studio day soon for the tracks, but I don't think that'll happen til after Easter. I get more and more excited each time we take another step on this project!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Silence on the Hill
Gerald and I just finished our rehearsal in preparation for tomorrow's rehearsal with Teri. Gerald is going to play "Just a Closer Walk" and "Give Me Jesus" on my new CD, so tomorrow will be a chance to share those arrangements with Teri, and see how her piano skills might fit in on those songs.
I got an upsetting email today: Music on the Hill has been cancelled. This spring will be our last season. Music on the Hill was a lunchtime concert series held at my former home church in Toronto. We started it about 8 years ago as an outreach project. My role was Artistic Director. I found, hired, and coordinated the talent, and I even kept doing the job long distance from here in Nashville. We hosted 6 concerts in the spring and 6 in the fall, and they featured a wide range of music - everything from classical to opera to jazz to world music. We had some amazing performers, and received lots of support from the arts community and the local government.
One of the things that excited me over the years was our growing audience. I remember one first season show that, due to unexpected timing, ended up being held on election day. We had less than 20 people in the audience, and I was crushed. As Dad left the show, he slipped me a note that said, "Don't worry. It will grow." Apparently, over the last year, they've been averaging a hundred people a show - a terrific number for this kind concert. I loved Music on the Hill for many reasons, but the outreach was very important to me. Many of our audience members, and even many of our performers, would never step into a church, but our concerts gave them a reason to walk through the doors and sit in the sanctuary. Who knows how God used that moment over the years?
I don't know the exact reasons why the series has been cancelled. I've been told it has to do with funding at the church. When I got the email today, my heart sank. I'm just so sad to see this happen. But I'm also really proud of the work we did. We gave opportunities to many artists, and welcomed thousands of people through the doors of our church.
And here's the real grace for today: I had my friend Deanna booked to sing in this spring's series. When she announced her wedding date for June, she told me she would also have to cancel her concert. Since Gerald and I will be in town for the wedding, we decided to take her spot. God clearly knew what was coming, because Gerald and I will now sing this June, in the last series of Music on the Hill.
Please join us if you're in the area:
I got an upsetting email today: Music on the Hill has been cancelled. This spring will be our last season. Music on the Hill was a lunchtime concert series held at my former home church in Toronto. We started it about 8 years ago as an outreach project. My role was Artistic Director. I found, hired, and coordinated the talent, and I even kept doing the job long distance from here in Nashville. We hosted 6 concerts in the spring and 6 in the fall, and they featured a wide range of music - everything from classical to opera to jazz to world music. We had some amazing performers, and received lots of support from the arts community and the local government.
One of the things that excited me over the years was our growing audience. I remember one first season show that, due to unexpected timing, ended up being held on election day. We had less than 20 people in the audience, and I was crushed. As Dad left the show, he slipped me a note that said, "Don't worry. It will grow." Apparently, over the last year, they've been averaging a hundred people a show - a terrific number for this kind concert. I loved Music on the Hill for many reasons, but the outreach was very important to me. Many of our audience members, and even many of our performers, would never step into a church, but our concerts gave them a reason to walk through the doors and sit in the sanctuary. Who knows how God used that moment over the years?
I don't know the exact reasons why the series has been cancelled. I've been told it has to do with funding at the church. When I got the email today, my heart sank. I'm just so sad to see this happen. But I'm also really proud of the work we did. We gave opportunities to many artists, and welcomed thousands of people through the doors of our church.
And here's the real grace for today: I had my friend Deanna booked to sing in this spring's series. When she announced her wedding date for June, she told me she would also have to cancel her concert. Since Gerald and I will be in town for the wedding, we decided to take her spot. God clearly knew what was coming, because Gerald and I will now sing this June, in the last series of Music on the Hill.
Please join us if you're in the area:
THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2009
MUSIC ON THE HILL CONCERT SERIES
Allison & Gerald will perform a concert of
original and classic Gospel and Country songs.
St. John's York Mills Church
19 Don Ridge Dr.
North York, ON
12:15pm
Pay-What-You-Can Admission
MUSIC ON THE HILL CONCERT SERIES
Allison & Gerald will perform a concert of
original and classic Gospel and Country songs.
St. John's York Mills Church
19 Don Ridge Dr.
North York, ON
12:15pm
Pay-What-You-Can Admission
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Return to Harpeth Springs
One of my favourite hymns growing up sang, "The church is wherever God's people are praising..."
This morning, Gerald and I returned to Harpeth Springs Community Church to lead worship. Last week, we met in a parish hall in Pegram, but this morning, we joined the congregation in their new home - a middle school in Kingston Springs. An unexpected place to find church, but still a joyous place to worship on a Sunday morning.
There are definite challenges leading music with a small crowd in a big concrete room. The sound spreads so much and people can't hear each other singing. Everyone feels a little far away from their neighbour, especially after spending the last few weeks in a warm cozy little hall.
That said, I think we rose to the challenge. Our new sound system filled the room brilliantly, and even though we couldn't hear the voices very well, I could see lots of singing and clapping. After the service, we enjoyed fellowship and homemade goodies, and we got some wonderful feedback, so that was encouraging.
Next week will be interesting: I committed to singing at Redeemer over a month ago, so Gerald will be leading worship at Harpeth Springs by himself. It's the first time we've ever worked two different churches on one Sunday morning! There's always a new challenge when God's your boss!
This morning, Gerald and I returned to Harpeth Springs Community Church to lead worship. Last week, we met in a parish hall in Pegram, but this morning, we joined the congregation in their new home - a middle school in Kingston Springs. An unexpected place to find church, but still a joyous place to worship on a Sunday morning.
There are definite challenges leading music with a small crowd in a big concrete room. The sound spreads so much and people can't hear each other singing. Everyone feels a little far away from their neighbour, especially after spending the last few weeks in a warm cozy little hall.
That said, I think we rose to the challenge. Our new sound system filled the room brilliantly, and even though we couldn't hear the voices very well, I could see lots of singing and clapping. After the service, we enjoyed fellowship and homemade goodies, and we got some wonderful feedback, so that was encouraging.
Next week will be interesting: I committed to singing at Redeemer over a month ago, so Gerald will be leading worship at Harpeth Springs by himself. It's the first time we've ever worked two different churches on one Sunday morning! There's always a new challenge when God's your boss!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
NSAI night!
Gerald and I recently re-upped our membership with NSAI, and tonight was our first meeting in ages! It felt so good to be back there, seeing a few familiar faces, and enjoying a truly unique Nashville experience.
Tonight's meeting featured NSAI membership coordinator, Sheree Spoltore, speaking on "My Hometown - Success in Your Own Backyard." Basically, the focus was on making your songwriting career work when you don't live in a major music centre like Nashville.
It was interesting timing for us. As I've already written, Gerald and I are in Decision Month. Within a few weeks, we'll decide whether we'll move back to Toronto next year, or apply for a visa extension to stay in Nashville. Our visa ends in January, and the visa is never guaranteed, so Toronto could definitely be the place. As we think about moving back there, we've realized that we wouldn't be moving back to the same Toronto we lived in 2 years ago. Not because the city has changed, but because we've changed so much. We've gained new skills and accomplishments, and if/when we move back to Toronto, we'll be living different lives than we did before.
So, it was interesting that this week's meeting focused on how to make it work outside of Nashville.
Sheree is passionate about songs and songwriters. She was one of the first people we met here, and was one of our first supporters. She is always inspiring, and tonight was no exception. She gave lots and lots of practical ideas, and everyone left the room ready to write songs and spread their music. (If you're a member, they'll have it on the webcast archive soon.) Great night!
Tonight's meeting featured NSAI membership coordinator, Sheree Spoltore, speaking on "My Hometown - Success in Your Own Backyard." Basically, the focus was on making your songwriting career work when you don't live in a major music centre like Nashville.
It was interesting timing for us. As I've already written, Gerald and I are in Decision Month. Within a few weeks, we'll decide whether we'll move back to Toronto next year, or apply for a visa extension to stay in Nashville. Our visa ends in January, and the visa is never guaranteed, so Toronto could definitely be the place. As we think about moving back there, we've realized that we wouldn't be moving back to the same Toronto we lived in 2 years ago. Not because the city has changed, but because we've changed so much. We've gained new skills and accomplishments, and if/when we move back to Toronto, we'll be living different lives than we did before.
So, it was interesting that this week's meeting focused on how to make it work outside of Nashville.
Sheree is passionate about songs and songwriters. She was one of the first people we met here, and was one of our first supporters. She is always inspiring, and tonight was no exception. She gave lots and lots of practical ideas, and everyone left the room ready to write songs and spread their music. (If you're a member, they'll have it on the webcast archive soon.) Great night!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
I Love Rehearsals!
Teri Reid and I met this morning to start rehearsing the hymns!! I was so excited and nervous - mostly excited, but I'm always a little nervous when I start something new.
Most of the songs are going to be piano driven, and a few will be guitar driven, so today we focused on the piano songs. It sounded so good!! Some of it will be kind of jazzy, and some of the songs are just going to be really, really pretty. A few are standing out already - I'm excited about "In the Garden" and "Come Thou Fount". We're doing "Take My Life" using the Mozart tune from the old red Anglican hymnal, which is the tune I grew up with. To give it a little 'lift', I wrote a little refrain to sing after each verse, and it sounded really beautiful with the piano!
Next, Gerald and I will rehearse the guitar songs, and then we'll start bringing the guitar and piano together over the next few weeks. So excited!!!
Most of the songs are going to be piano driven, and a few will be guitar driven, so today we focused on the piano songs. It sounded so good!! Some of it will be kind of jazzy, and some of the songs are just going to be really, really pretty. A few are standing out already - I'm excited about "In the Garden" and "Come Thou Fount". We're doing "Take My Life" using the Mozart tune from the old red Anglican hymnal, which is the tune I grew up with. To give it a little 'lift', I wrote a little refrain to sing after each verse, and it sounded really beautiful with the piano!
Next, Gerald and I will rehearse the guitar songs, and then we'll start bringing the guitar and piano together over the next few weeks. So excited!!!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Harpeth Springs Community Church
This morning, Gerald and I lead worship at Harpeth Springs Community Church. This is a very young church community - only 9 months old, to be exact. They posted a small ad saying they were looking for "worshipers who could also lead worship", and I gave them a call.
The small, faithful congregation is currently meeting in the parish hall of a more established church, so we had a nice cozy room for worship. There were lots of kids, and the whole atmosphere was warm and friendly.
I had worked very hard to set all our lyrics on a power point thingy so they could show them on the screen. Just by using the word "thingy," you can probably tell I didn't quite know what I was doing. Well, it could have been me, or it could have been that their system wasn't Mac-compatible. Either way, when it came time for the service, the lyrics weren't showing on the screen. Gerald and the sound man started looking for other options to get the lyrics up. As things got later and later, I started to get a little nervous. What if we were messing up their entire morning? What if we were offending the entire congregation? Just as these thoughts were getting worse and worse, the pastor comes over and says, "We just love spending fellowship time before the service. As you can see, people arrive late around here, so we just hang out and get to know each other better." I relaxed completely! We eventually found some printed lyric sheets and started the service.
There was a really gentle energy throughout the whole service. People sang and were joyful, and even the kids sang out. Pastor Jim preached a wonderful message about pursuing Jesus, and we had a great time of prayer.
At the end of the service, we were asked to play a song of reflection during Communion. They did Communion a little differently than I'm used to - the elements were laid out on a side altar, and you could go up and receive them in your own time. It was neat because you really got to receive the bread and wine in a moment of stillness. It reminded me of the fact that our relationship with God is a relationship of choice - God will seek us out, but He will never force Himself on us.
After the service, we got a chance to meet most of the congregation, and the pastor and his wife took us out to lunch. As we enjoyed the Mexican buffet, Jim asked if we would consider leading worship for the next few weeks, up to and including Easter Sunday! We happily accepted, and learned more about what they want to achieve in their new church.
And here's the part where I knew God was in the mix: After the service, Jim and several members of the congregation talked and decided they wanted us back. They loved the music and the way we lead worship, but here's the kicker - they were totally impressed by how relaxed we were when the lyrics didn't work. They loved that we were calm and friendly as we worked with others to find a solution. Good thing they couldn't see my nervousness inside!
Whenever things don't go as planned, I like to say, "I had a plan for today, but apparently God's decided we're following His plan." Well, today, we really were on God's plan, and the results couldn't have been better!
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
(Jeremiah 29:11)
The small, faithful congregation is currently meeting in the parish hall of a more established church, so we had a nice cozy room for worship. There were lots of kids, and the whole atmosphere was warm and friendly.
I had worked very hard to set all our lyrics on a power point thingy so they could show them on the screen. Just by using the word "thingy," you can probably tell I didn't quite know what I was doing. Well, it could have been me, or it could have been that their system wasn't Mac-compatible. Either way, when it came time for the service, the lyrics weren't showing on the screen. Gerald and the sound man started looking for other options to get the lyrics up. As things got later and later, I started to get a little nervous. What if we were messing up their entire morning? What if we were offending the entire congregation? Just as these thoughts were getting worse and worse, the pastor comes over and says, "We just love spending fellowship time before the service. As you can see, people arrive late around here, so we just hang out and get to know each other better." I relaxed completely! We eventually found some printed lyric sheets and started the service.
There was a really gentle energy throughout the whole service. People sang and were joyful, and even the kids sang out. Pastor Jim preached a wonderful message about pursuing Jesus, and we had a great time of prayer.
At the end of the service, we were asked to play a song of reflection during Communion. They did Communion a little differently than I'm used to - the elements were laid out on a side altar, and you could go up and receive them in your own time. It was neat because you really got to receive the bread and wine in a moment of stillness. It reminded me of the fact that our relationship with God is a relationship of choice - God will seek us out, but He will never force Himself on us.
After the service, we got a chance to meet most of the congregation, and the pastor and his wife took us out to lunch. As we enjoyed the Mexican buffet, Jim asked if we would consider leading worship for the next few weeks, up to and including Easter Sunday! We happily accepted, and learned more about what they want to achieve in their new church.
And here's the part where I knew God was in the mix: After the service, Jim and several members of the congregation talked and decided they wanted us back. They loved the music and the way we lead worship, but here's the kicker - they were totally impressed by how relaxed we were when the lyrics didn't work. They loved that we were calm and friendly as we worked with others to find a solution. Good thing they couldn't see my nervousness inside!
Whenever things don't go as planned, I like to say, "I had a plan for today, but apparently God's decided we're following His plan." Well, today, we really were on God's plan, and the results couldn't have been better!
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
(Jeremiah 29:11)
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Saturday Report
Feeling like forever since I've blogged, so I really just want to give a little update. We're leading worship at Harpeth Springs Community Church tomorrow morning, and I still have lots to do tonight, so I'm going to do this in bullet points:
- The hymns CD is coming along nicely! I've axed "This is my Father's World" - love it, but it really doesn't fit my theme of 'intimate' hymns. Instead, I'm going to do "Just a Closer Walk with Thee." Gerald and I figured out a cool arrangement when we were in Alabama, so we're doing to do that instead. I start rehearsing with Teri this week. So excited!!!
- I recently interviewed four of Stamps-Baxter's international students for my SGM Radio article. I'll post a link when it's up. One of the girls found out about the school through the Canadian Homecoming DVD, and I was at that taping! God is so in the details!
- I decided to take on a Song U "Challenge" this quarter and do a "blind date" cowrite. Basically, they match you up with another writer, generally in another part of the country, and you write a song together via phone, the internet, etc. My partner just sent me some lyrics, and one of them screamed Southern Gospel, so I'm going to write a melody this week. Very excited by the challenge!
- I booked 5 gigs in the past 10 days. Whoo-hoo!
- So the big thing is this: It's Visa Decision Time. Basically, our work visa expires in January 2010. If we're going to renew, it should be in August, which means we'll need to start assembling the package next month, which means ... it's time to decide if we're going to renew the visa, or go home to Canada. Needless to say, this is huge. It's all I think about, and Gerald and I are actively discussing it every day. In short, there are great reasons on both sides of the argument. Creatively, Nashville is perfect for us, but practically speaking, Toronto is much better. There are people in Nashville who want us to stay here, and people in Toronto who want us to come home, and we love that people want us on both sides of the border, but ultimately, we need to decide what's best for us as a family.
Really, it's all I think about these days. Any other thoughts are simply distractions. Please pray for us as we truly try to seek and follow God's will for our lives.
- The hymns CD is coming along nicely! I've axed "This is my Father's World" - love it, but it really doesn't fit my theme of 'intimate' hymns. Instead, I'm going to do "Just a Closer Walk with Thee." Gerald and I figured out a cool arrangement when we were in Alabama, so we're doing to do that instead. I start rehearsing with Teri this week. So excited!!!
- I recently interviewed four of Stamps-Baxter's international students for my SGM Radio article. I'll post a link when it's up. One of the girls found out about the school through the Canadian Homecoming DVD, and I was at that taping! God is so in the details!
- I decided to take on a Song U "Challenge" this quarter and do a "blind date" cowrite. Basically, they match you up with another writer, generally in another part of the country, and you write a song together via phone, the internet, etc. My partner just sent me some lyrics, and one of them screamed Southern Gospel, so I'm going to write a melody this week. Very excited by the challenge!
- I booked 5 gigs in the past 10 days. Whoo-hoo!
- So the big thing is this: It's Visa Decision Time. Basically, our work visa expires in January 2010. If we're going to renew, it should be in August, which means we'll need to start assembling the package next month, which means ... it's time to decide if we're going to renew the visa, or go home to Canada. Needless to say, this is huge. It's all I think about, and Gerald and I are actively discussing it every day. In short, there are great reasons on both sides of the argument. Creatively, Nashville is perfect for us, but practically speaking, Toronto is much better. There are people in Nashville who want us to stay here, and people in Toronto who want us to come home, and we love that people want us on both sides of the border, but ultimately, we need to decide what's best for us as a family.
Really, it's all I think about these days. Any other thoughts are simply distractions. Please pray for us as we truly try to seek and follow God's will for our lives.
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Northside Church of the Nazarene
We're home! After a long, but safe, 6-hour drive, we're home and exhausted! I have to work tomorrow morning, but I'm way too tired to go to sleep yet.
We were up bright and early (the clock said 7 am, but my body still felt 6 am) to join Ron at Northside Church of the Nazarene. Neat story: back in the day, Dad Speer founded the main Nazarene church in the area. Speer history! I love it!
The church hosts a small congregation, but what a service! We opened with a congregational hymn, prayers, and announcements, and then it was our time. We had planned on doing four songs, but we got requests! On Friday night, Gerald was talking about his 9-11 song, "Angels in the Dust." One of the veterans showed up at church "just to hear that song," so you know Gerald had to do it. (love that song!!!) It received a great response, so it was well worth it.
At the last minute, Gerald asked if I'd sing "Shepherd of the Hills." I didn't really know if it was the right morning for it. I rehearsed it, but decided I wouldn't do it. After Gerald sang "Angels," I sat down in my pew, thinking this was a lovely way to end the set. Then Ron asked, "Are you going to to do #6?" How could I say No? After I sang it, the preacher walked up to the pulpit and said, "That last song said exactly what I want to say in my sermon." You can't tell me God's not in that!
The sermon was excellent, and after the service a group of us went to lunch. Again, we got to know several people, and I think I may have an invitation to another church in August.
What a weekend! I'm tired, but very, very happy!
We were up bright and early (the clock said 7 am, but my body still felt 6 am) to join Ron at Northside Church of the Nazarene. Neat story: back in the day, Dad Speer founded the main Nazarene church in the area. Speer history! I love it!
The church hosts a small congregation, but what a service! We opened with a congregational hymn, prayers, and announcements, and then it was our time. We had planned on doing four songs, but we got requests! On Friday night, Gerald was talking about his 9-11 song, "Angels in the Dust." One of the veterans showed up at church "just to hear that song," so you know Gerald had to do it. (love that song!!!) It received a great response, so it was well worth it.
At the last minute, Gerald asked if I'd sing "Shepherd of the Hills." I didn't really know if it was the right morning for it. I rehearsed it, but decided I wouldn't do it. After Gerald sang "Angels," I sat down in my pew, thinking this was a lovely way to end the set. Then Ron asked, "Are you going to to do #6?" How could I say No? After I sang it, the preacher walked up to the pulpit and said, "That last song said exactly what I want to say in my sermon." You can't tell me God's not in that!
The sermon was excellent, and after the service a group of us went to lunch. Again, we got to know several people, and I think I may have an invitation to another church in August.
What a weekend! I'm tired, but very, very happy!
Saturday, March 07, 2009
Grimes Gospel Lighthouse
Grimes Gospel Lighthouse is a small church just around the corner from Klondyke, in Dothan, Alabama. Each Saturday night, they host artists for a weekly Gospel singing. Like Klondyke, Grimes Gospel Lighthouse is a small ministry that serves a vibrant and committed group of believers. We were welcomed with open arms, and sent home with bowls full of homemade peach cobbler. One of the women brought her little black chihuahua, who sat in the pew with her, so we knew we were in the right place for us!
They open each singing with the song “The Lighthouse” and by praying over prayer cards collected throughout the week. After the prayer, we did our program. The songs from “Real Big Fan” were really well received, with people singing and clapping along, and they loved it when Gerald grabbed his guitar and we sang together.
During the offering, a gentleman from the congregation sang and played a few classic songs, and then we jumped back up to finish with a few hymns. After our last song, we all held hands and ended with prayer. It was a lovely spirit, and we got to chat with everyone present. Unfortunately, the puppy got away before I could take a picture, but trust me - he was so cute! (Yes, we totally miss our puppies right now!)
We’ve had an extra gig added on! Last night, Ron asked if we could sing in his church on Sunday morning, so he’s picking us up bright and early tomorrow morning to drive with him. Of course the time springs forward tonight, so it’s really going to early - don’t know how bright I’ll be!
They open each singing with the song “The Lighthouse” and by praying over prayer cards collected throughout the week. After the prayer, we did our program. The songs from “Real Big Fan” were really well received, with people singing and clapping along, and they loved it when Gerald grabbed his guitar and we sang together.
During the offering, a gentleman from the congregation sang and played a few classic songs, and then we jumped back up to finish with a few hymns. After our last song, we all held hands and ended with prayer. It was a lovely spirit, and we got to chat with everyone present. Unfortunately, the puppy got away before I could take a picture, but trust me - he was so cute! (Yes, we totally miss our puppies right now!)
We’ve had an extra gig added on! Last night, Ron asked if we could sing in his church on Sunday morning, so he’s picking us up bright and early tomorrow morning to drive with him. Of course the time springs forward tonight, so it’s really going to early - don’t know how bright I’ll be!
Klondyke Gospel Music Center
(I didn't have internet access this weekend, so I wrote offline and I'm adjusting the dates as I post these entries now.)
It’s 4:25 Saturday afternoon, and the last 30-something hours have been a whirlwind.
Last week, Gerald and I did something we thought was brilliant. We bought a great new sound system called the Fishman SoloAmp - it’s an all-in-one system perfect for solo artists or duos. Gerald spent the last few months shopping around, and when we found a great price on Ebay last week, we snatched it up. The brilliant part was that the SoloAmp would arrive on Tuesday, and we would have this entire week to rehearse with it.
Well, you know what happens when you start putting your faith in postal stuff. First it wasn’t shipped Monday, then it wasn’t shipped Tuesday, and so on and so on. Finally, the seller told us it was shipping out THURSDAY and would arrive 8 am on FRIDAY morning!
Reason for stress: Friday (yesterday) we had to drive 6 hours for a 7 pm concert in Ozark, Alabama - at a venue where we had to provide our own sound system!
We got up early Friday morning to get ready for the day, finish packing, and prepare for the 8 am arrival of the SoloAmp. Our plan was to do a test of the system before getting in the car. At 9:23 am, a very apologetic UPS man pulled up in front of our house. After a quick unpacking and testing (it works!), we were on the road by 10:15.
Here’s the irony: When we arrived at the Klondyke Gospel Music Center, yesterday’s group, Reign Song, was still in the building. They were just there to see the show, but they had left their sound system in place, just in case we wanted to use it - we didn’t need our own system after all!
After a sound check and freshening up, we started the show. The first half of the show was just me and my tracks and testimony. The crowd loved “Neighbour” and “Wedding at Cana” and “Moving Up to Gloryland.” I had a very cool moment during “Abide With Me” - I had my eyes closed for a moment in the bridge, and when I opened my eyes for the first line of the last verse, “Hold thou thy cross before my closing eyes,” my eyes fell on the 3 white crosses at the back of the room. No one else knew what was happening, but it was one of the those moments when I really felt God moving in the music. I sang “Real Big Fan,” which I always love, and got everyone singing with “At the Cross.”
That’s when I pulled up Gerald. We did “In the Garden,” which always gets people singing. Gerald did some of his originals - “A Church Song Broke me Down,” “The Lovely White Birds,” and “A Hand-me-down Prayer.” We ended with rousing renditions of “What a Friend” and “Just a Closer Walk.”
After the show, the entire crowd made its way over to the Waffle King for a late night scoff. It was great to chat with people and learn more about their lives and community. Gerald and I stayed up very late chatting with Gina and Stacey Cooper of Reign Song (who are actually staying the whole weekend). After such a long crazy day, we also slept in very late this morning. Gerald and I had a lovely, long walk this afternoon, and the rest of the day was spent chatting and sharing music.
We’re getting ready now to sing at Grimes Gospel Lighthouse tonight. If all goes well, we’ll use our sound system and present the same show as last night. If God has another plan, well, we’ll just have to see what happens!
It’s 4:25 Saturday afternoon, and the last 30-something hours have been a whirlwind.
Last week, Gerald and I did something we thought was brilliant. We bought a great new sound system called the Fishman SoloAmp - it’s an all-in-one system perfect for solo artists or duos. Gerald spent the last few months shopping around, and when we found a great price on Ebay last week, we snatched it up. The brilliant part was that the SoloAmp would arrive on Tuesday, and we would have this entire week to rehearse with it.
Well, you know what happens when you start putting your faith in postal stuff. First it wasn’t shipped Monday, then it wasn’t shipped Tuesday, and so on and so on. Finally, the seller told us it was shipping out THURSDAY and would arrive 8 am on FRIDAY morning!
Reason for stress: Friday (yesterday) we had to drive 6 hours for a 7 pm concert in Ozark, Alabama - at a venue where we had to provide our own sound system!
We got up early Friday morning to get ready for the day, finish packing, and prepare for the 8 am arrival of the SoloAmp. Our plan was to do a test of the system before getting in the car. At 9:23 am, a very apologetic UPS man pulled up in front of our house. After a quick unpacking and testing (it works!), we were on the road by 10:15.
Here’s the irony: When we arrived at the Klondyke Gospel Music Center, yesterday’s group, Reign Song, was still in the building. They were just there to see the show, but they had left their sound system in place, just in case we wanted to use it - we didn’t need our own system after all!
After a sound check and freshening up, we started the show. The first half of the show was just me and my tracks and testimony. The crowd loved “Neighbour” and “Wedding at Cana” and “Moving Up to Gloryland.” I had a very cool moment during “Abide With Me” - I had my eyes closed for a moment in the bridge, and when I opened my eyes for the first line of the last verse, “Hold thou thy cross before my closing eyes,” my eyes fell on the 3 white crosses at the back of the room. No one else knew what was happening, but it was one of the those moments when I really felt God moving in the music. I sang “Real Big Fan,” which I always love, and got everyone singing with “At the Cross.”
That’s when I pulled up Gerald. We did “In the Garden,” which always gets people singing. Gerald did some of his originals - “A Church Song Broke me Down,” “The Lovely White Birds,” and “A Hand-me-down Prayer.” We ended with rousing renditions of “What a Friend” and “Just a Closer Walk.”
After the show, the entire crowd made its way over to the Waffle King for a late night scoff. It was great to chat with people and learn more about their lives and community. Gerald and I stayed up very late chatting with Gina and Stacey Cooper of Reign Song (who are actually staying the whole weekend). After such a long crazy day, we also slept in very late this morning. Gerald and I had a lovely, long walk this afternoon, and the rest of the day was spent chatting and sharing music.
We’re getting ready now to sing at Grimes Gospel Lighthouse tonight. If all goes well, we’ll use our sound system and present the same show as last night. If God has another plan, well, we’ll just have to see what happens!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)