A few weeks ago the Then Let Us Sing! Development committee hosted a conversation on racism in music in English and French. In it, Catherine McLean, chair of the Education, Justice and Ethos committee posted these six questions to help us be proactive in our music selection: - What makes you cringe?
- How might my/our affection for a carol be more selfish than community-minded?
- Is there anyone being diminished in this carol?
- Is this piece diminishing Jewish heritage or fetishing poverty & race?
- Examine the light-dark imagery.
- How does this old story become fresh?
- What is the heritage of the carol – pick one and look up who wrote it and why?
Some Musical Resources:If you rely on recorded music for your Sunday services, there are lots of great resources available from many communities of faith.
Please make sure to reach out and seek permission from creators and performers before using their videos in your own worship services, with the exception of anything from The United Church of Canada and The United Church of Christ’s official YouTube channels (these are intended for Congregational Use), and to follow copyright laws and practices when duplicating or sharing any content that is not original to you. - A special thanks to The Journey Band of St. Mary’s Road United Church who sent a copy of their new CD Box Set, “A Year in the Life of Faith” with several Advent songs and hymns at the beginning.
- The Aujourd’hui Credo YouTube channel has over 160 songs available.
- If you are looking for more information on a favorite hymn or carol a great place to start your search is with Hymnary.org an online comprehensive index of hymns and hymnals.
- The United Methodist Church also has excellent weekly musical resources, including the beloved series of blogs “the History of Hymns.”
[Video Still: The United Church of Canada] |
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