Music Commission

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Spring 2010 Issue of Exultate Deo | Recordings by Diocesan Musicians | Liturgical Commission

Mission Statement of Music Commission

By appointment of the Bishop, the Church Music Commission serves the laity and clergy of the Diocese of Texas by providing support services regarding the conduct and performance of worship music at both the parish and Diocesan levels. The Commission aids local parish musicians in their continuing education of church members.

The Commission also acts as liaison between the Standing Committee on Church Music for The Episcopal Church and the local parish musician. The Commission, representing all quarters of the Diocese, consists of musicians appointed by the Bishop who meet on a regular basis and manage an active roster of activities. The Commission also consults with individual parishes as needed. 

Yearly Events

Regularly scheduled events:

DIOCESAN CHOIR CAMP, Brenham, July 18-24, 2010.  Children in rising grades 4-8 will work with guest conductor Courtney Daniell-Knapp.   Join us for Blue Bell, Blinn College housing and beautiful music in Brenham!   At the end of the week a Broadway-theme show and family closing Eucharist showcase all that the children have learned.  Cost $ 450 inclusive per camper with scholarships available. Click here for an application.  Contact Linda Patterson (below) for more information. 

DIOCESAN (ADULT) CHORAL FESTIVAL, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY OCTOBER 16-17, 2010 Held annually since 1956 at Christ Church Cathedral, Houston, the Festival attracts choristers and clergy from throughout the Diocese. Nationally-known conductors lead combined choirs in the best choral literature in an effective and joyously festive atmosphere. This year's conductor will be British organist and conductor Martin Neary.  Rehearsals for Houston-area choirs will begin on Saturday afternoon. The festival will continue on Sunday with  an afternoon rehearsal from 3-5:30 PM for all singers.  The Festival Service will begin at 6PM, with a reception following.  The public is invited to attend the service.  Click here for more information or the registration form.  For more information, contact Bruce Power at 713.590.3310.  

Diocesan Youth Choral Festival at Christ Church Cathedral  - SATURDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2010 at Christ Church Cathedral, Houston.  This year's conductor will be Joseph Painter of St. James', Conroe.  This event is an opportunity for youth grades 3-12 to gather for a day of singing, fellowship and fun.  For more information, contact Bruce Power at 713.590.3310.

Exultate Deo Newsletter   The newsletter is mailed regularly to all musicians and clergy in the Diocese of Texas. Featuring articles of interest as well as information on forthcoming Church Music Commission events, it is the primary communication vehicle of the Commission.  Click on link at top of this page to download a copy of the current (Spring 2010) issue.    

"Beyond Contemporary Music: Equipping and Encouraging Local Communities"  A Contemporary Music Gathering for Priests, Worship Leaders, Worship Team Members, Musicians and Sound/Media Technicians.  Will be held again in Houston---watch for 2010 dates.  For more information, contact Linda Patterson (below).   

Music Workshops Dates and locations TBA.  Commission members will provide interest sessions in choral music, vocal technique and contemporary non-traditional music. Open to singers, directors, organists, contemporary musicians and clergy. 

The Leadership Program for Musicians Serving Smaller Congregations (LPM) Provides ongoing continuing education geared toward church musicians who want to sharpen their skills and who may not have had much formal training.  Classes meet monthly in El Campo.

Mailing List of Musicians in the Diocese

The Commission maintains a mailing list and an email list of musicians in the Diocese. 

Roster of Commission Members

Linda Patterson, Chair St. Peter's, Brenham        979.836.7248 ext. 13

Ex-officio Members: The Right Rev. C. Andrew Doyle, The Rev. Canon Ann Normand, The Rev. James Derkits  (Diocesan Liturgical Commission)