Songs of praise and worship for the rest of us.
Philosophy
I have been leading worship and music in churches for the better part of 30 years. During this time I have watched the evolution of "contemporary" music for worship. Its roots were blended in the 60's from traditional folk and spirituals, combined with the pioneering efforts of songwriters within the Catholic and Protestant denominations. The evolution has progressed to the current wave of wonderful music which grows out of the evangelical movement. Often referred to as "Praise Music", this style is being used in performance and worship on a worldwide scale.
Over the past several years a separation has evolved between mainline denominations - some have become part of the contemporary evangelical movement while others have found their focus in a different style of faith development. Both are Christian. Both are relevant and fill different needs in their congregations and the world. Both have their own style, culture, and language. This other culture of faith-filled Christians chooses to express their praise to God and commitment to the teachings of Jesus with different words, and in a different style than that of the evangelical Christian movement. I consider myself part of this group, and have spent the past twenty years collecting, writing, arranging music that meets the needs of this group.
In offering my songs to publishers, promoters, artists and record companies, I have been politely turned down. When pressing for a reason, I have been told that since my songs don't conform to the commonly accepted style and theological expression (of the evangelical movement) they reflect a weakness of faith and a fear of expressing "true" Christianity. (It was like trying to get a software company to write for the Macintosh prior to its recent comeback). Although I totally disagreed, there was no point in arguing. It was clear that the time had come to publish and promote this music myself.
The music in our catalog is an offering for "the rest of us" (it's actually for all of us). It is for those who choose to express their faith in words and actions that don't necessarily reflect the style of the evangelical cultural. This music includes faith-filled hymns of praise, challenges to live out the Christian life in through our actions, and a profound sense of mission in daily living to be the hands of God in the world.
These songs are melodic, rhythmic, and catchy. Much has been written for ensembles of "average" singers with relatively simple arrangements that yield rich music. This is "service" music rather than "performance" music. It is designed to enhance the worship experience. If your church is small in number, you'll find this a wonderful resource. You also might like to look at our workshops for small churches.
I hope you will find this music useful for your worship. In the near future songs and arrangements will be available to purchase and download online along with licensing programs to allow you to do your own duplication.
A Song Must Rise
Hymns and Songs for Faith in Action - Available NOW!
ALSO