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Music at St. Nicholas’ |
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Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the assembly of the saints. Psalm 149:1 |
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Theological Foundations
The Anglican Communion is a part of the mainstream of Christian faith. Its understanding of the value and purpose of music is not uniquely its own. Anglicanism merely calls attention to the fact that the Christian doctrines of creation, incarnation, and sanctification constitute the essence of sacred music. The noblest and most sublime part of something is its essence.
Who is the Audience?
God is the audience. We are the "performers"—whether it is the entire congregation united in song or a professional choir involved in a complex musical composition. Thus, the function of music is not to assuage the emotions of the hearers. In other words, its purpose is not to entertain the congregation, but to be a part of what the congregation offers to God in its liturgy (Greek for "public obligation or service"). Because sacred music is directed towards God rather than human beings, it does not to try to anesthetize or arouse its hearers, but to be "an outward and visible sign" of the worth which the congregation gives to God in its public worship (Anglo-Saxon for "giving value to whom it is due"). Anglican music true to its essence exercises restraint and distinguishes itself from secular expression because sacred music is analogous to the Divine Order, as In Tune with Heaven, the Report of the Archbishops’ Commission on Church Music (London: Church House, 1992) observes:
All public worship, including music, is God-directed. Music can be plain or elaborate, but right tunes and words always signify God and His mighty acts. This is why creation, incarnation, and sanctification constitute the essence of sacred music. More . . . .
Our accomplished Director of Music, Mr. Don Bliss goes to great lengths to provide our liturgical space with sacred hymnody and spiritual expression that provides great feeling and reverence to all our celebrations at St. Nicholas Church. All are welcome and encouraged to join our choir. We practice every Monday evening at 7:00 PM beginning in September through June. |
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The Hymnal 1940 The Hymnal 1982 Guest Performers Our Choir |
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SACRED MUSIC |
