Category Archives: Uncategorized

Announcing the May 2023 Music Newsletter

May’s Music Newsletter is now online. CLICK HERE to go to the real deal.

Inside you’ll find:

  • Music Announcements
  • Guess the New Mystery Hymnjjliljlkjjjljljjj in iikikkiiiikiiiiijiiiiiiuoiiiijkiiiuoii
  • Listen to Spellman Glee Club Sing
  • The Blessings of Choirs

THIS IT WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE – PLEASE OPEN LINK & ENJOY

And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, a design for an song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvelous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. Revelation 15:3

Opportunities & Announcements

• Stake Conference Choir WARM UP Sunday morning May 7th, 9AM Relief Society Room

GO TO FULL NEWSLETTER

April 2023 Music Newsletter Is Online!

What a wonderful time for music. Inside you’ll find:

  • Invitation to Join Stake Choir for Conference
  • Great List of Hymns to Enhance ‘Come Follow Me’
  • Easter Mystery Hymn (you’ll be surprised)
  • New Inspirational Music Video
  • Sing Along Video to Gardner’s ‘Lamb of God’

CLICK HERE FOR THIS MONTH’s MUSIC NEWSLETTER

A sample of the newsletter beginning:

And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives. Matthew 26:30

Opportunities & Announcements

• Join in Singing with the Stake Conference Choir. Practices April 16, 23, 30 at 7PM at the Stake Center. Open to all. Singers Needed, especially men. The Stake Conference session for the choir is Sunday morning May 7th.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO APRIL NEWSLETTER

March 2023 Music Newsletter

Remember that current and all past Music Newsletters can be found by clicking “Newsletters” in the menu at the top of this webpage.

WHAT WILL YOU FIND INSIDE MARCH’S NEWSLETTER?

  • Free Organ Lessons
  • Easter Sunday Music
  • Mystery Hymn
  • Tips for Getting Back Into Music
  • Great Songs for Come Follow Me

CLICK HERE FOR NEWSLETTER

November Newsletter 2022

Peruse this month’s MUSIC NEWSLETTER HERE.

Inside You’ll Find:

  • Links to Spirituals telling the stories from ‘Come Follow Me’
  • How Service, Gratitude, and Music are Connected
  • Stake Christmas Sing Along DEC 4th details
  • Ideas on Being a Great Ward Choir Member

CLICK HERE FOR MUSIC NEWSLETTER or click on menu heading ‘Newsletter’ > ‘NOV 2022’

Zion, Music, and Isaiah

Have you ever seen or been involved in a marching band or a large group floor presentation (olympics, group dance)?  The demonstration consists of numerous individuals who have learned their part and rehearsed.  The individual’s perspective is on the ground and they are unable to fully see the unfolding of the design of which they are an essential element of.  They are simply doing ‘the best they can’ and hope everyone else is too.

We trust in God’s plan of Happiness and through his directors here on earth, each of us is learning and practicing our part for the big show, if you will.  Each of us is important and we all have a part to play.  Our part most likely won’t look exactly like someone else’s part so it’s important to seek out, learn, and rehearse our part.

Read more: Zion, Music, and Isaiah

One part of the plan in the latter days regards the building up of the kingdom of God upon the earth.  To gather Zion and build a place of refuge.

Recently, President Nelson and the apostles have been teaching us about the gathering to Zion but 14 years ago, Boyd K. Packer spoke of this as well.  He said, ’We know that the homes we establish, and those of our descendants, will be the refuge spoken of in the revelations—the “light,” the “standard,” the “ensign” for all nations, and the “refuge” against the gathering storms.’ Boyd K. Packer “A Defense and a Refuge, Oct 2006.

A refuge is a safe place, a place to be rescued, a place of peace, a place of safety.

“And that the gathering together upon the land of Zion, and upon her stakes, may be for a defense, and for a refuge from the storm, and from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth.” D&C 115:6

There is safety in Zion. 

So, what does it mean to build Zion?

What role does music play in the building of Zion and how can it help provide a refuge?

The crucial building blocks of Zion start with the basic principles and ordinances of the gospel entering into the hearts of the individual.  They in turn, are willing to share and serve.

More than the essential elements of musicianship that many of us are constantly learning and practicing, we need faith and commitment to the Lord to enter into the ranks of guardianship to build Zion with music and singing.   

I believe our stewardship begins with a pure heart that longs for the sweetness of music.  Like any good fruit, we then offer it to our families, then our ward and branch families which strengthens our stake or Zion. The strength of the branches and wards is determined by each individual person serving, ministering, and praying, as they contribute and serve.  It is as though each of us is some portion of Christ’s body.  The sanctuary of Zion, becomes stronger and safer.   

I believe music is key in giving comfort, sustaining courage, and teaching the gospel. 

Christ said to study the words of Isaiah.  His words can give us courage to express our joy for the gathering and the plan of happiness that we might not be able express in our own words.  Isaiah can help us see and understand the big picture.  Think of yourself as the marching band person and Isaiah as the director of the whole group.

Listen to these Isaiah phrases from 2 Nephi 22 (Isaiah 12)  and note the musical language:

  • . . . God is my salvation;  I will trust, and not be afraid; for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also has become my salvation. (v 2)
  • Sing unto the Lord;  for he hath done excellent things;  this is known in all the earth. (v 5)
  • Cry out and shout, show inhabitant of Zion; for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee. (v 6)

He says what is in my heart, even though I couldn’t think of the words myself, when I read them I’m grateful that he instructs me how to say it – how to sing it – how to shout it!!!!  Thank you Heavenly Father for prophets.  

As we learn, perform, and partake in this grand plan of our God, let us not ‘faint’ but ‘gird up our loins’.  Let us make a joyful noise.  We’re going to make mistakes along the way . . . learn to move on and practice,  but don’t let the fantasy of a perfect performance hinder your musical offerings in any arena.  Especially when it comes to building up the stakes of Zion and providing refuge from the storms.  

This is ministering. 

Read more: Zion, Music, and Isaiah

August Music Newsletter 2022

And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the Lord; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel. Ezra 3:11

Setting Goals for Music

Without a plan, little is accomplished.  It is true with having good and worthy music in your life.   Consider how trusting and loving self and others helps accomplish your musical goals.  

James Jordan said, “In order to accomplish [your goal], one must be able to look inward and realize the trust and love that already exists within oneself.  This is not an easy task. . . [we must] spend enough time to understand, love, and respect ourselves”.   Making music is a very personal, but worthy goal. 

Children and Youth can readily make music goals for their goal setting programs.  Encourage them and others. Be patient.  You may want to incorporate more music at home or in your classrooms.

Some possible musical goals: 

  • Join a choir – start singing
  • Memorize the lyrics to 3 hymns or primary songs
  • Make a choir schedule if you are choir director or music coordinator
  • Plan Christmas music for your family or ward
  • Offer to make special music in sacrament meeting
  • Make a musical recording to share with family & friends
  • Listen to uplifting music and make a plan for incorporating new music
  • Write a song or hymn lyric
  • Begin playing an instrument (pick up where you left off or start new)

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My Calling

Bishopric Counselor and Other Leaders

  • Always Be Encouraging to All Who Serve and Perform Music Duties
  • Listen to Ideas, Concerns, and Suggestions of Your Music People
  • Offer Thanks to the Many Who Play, Lead, Sing and Organize Music
  • Give Time and Space for Ward Choir Practice (avoid meeting conflicts)
  • Don’t Take for Granted Your Music People: Say – Write – Do Something
  • Show Love and Support for Every Person Who Makes An Effort – Every Week!

Become a great leader. Be a leader who ‘multiplies’ others rather than a leader who accidentally ‘diminishes’ others. For more understanding of this concept see Liz Wiseman’s BYU talk “The Power of Not Knowing”

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What’s New

“Away in a Manger” arrangement for 2 part + clarinet. $4.00 to make as many copies as you need for a performance. 

•Sacrament Hymn Introductions by Eddings Music for organ & piano – Free. Ever finish playing the sacrament hymn before it is prepared? This offers short and interesting hymn phrases to go with every sacrament hymn to gently fill the gap. Lots of music on the site. Also see Eddings highly recommended “3 Carols for the Nativity” $7.95. More offerings at Eddings Music.

• Youth Shares Importance of Music on ‘Strive to Be’ Instagram.

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Up and Coming

• Yes!!! “Carry On” Music Festival is Coming Soon . . . . . Sat 17 September

Call, text or email Sister Ginger Dean if you want to perform coalstakemusic@coalstakemusicgmailcom

• Organ and Piano Coaching available at the Dahlonega, Coal Mountain, Brannon, and Union Hill buildings. Free. Contact coalstakemusic@coalstakemusicgmailcom

• Stake Choir Practice – Oct 16, 23, 30. Look for more details coming.

• Save the Date Sunday 4 Dec for the Stake Christmas Carol Candlelight Sing Along

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Hymn Highlight

Choose the Right  – Hymn #239

Probably the most quoted phrase from our beloved hymns is “Choose the Right” as we teach our children and each other about the meaning of the CTR ring and other jewelry we remind ourselves with.   It was first published in the 1909 edition of ‘Deseret Sunday School Songs’ by Joseph Townsend 1849 – 1942. 

1909 Edition of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint Sunday School Songbook

Townsend was born in Pennsylvania, grew up in Ohio, Kansas and Missouri and came to Salt Lake City in 1872 for health reasons.  While there he joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  He later served as a missionary for the church in the Southern States Mission.  

Joseph also wrote the lyrics to other hymns in our current book:  #52 The Day Dawn is Breaking, #99 Nearer, Dear Savior, to Thee, #185 Reverently and Meekly Now, #232 Let Us Oft Speak Kind Words To Each Other, #239 Choose the Right, #258 O Thou Rock Of Our Salvation, #259 Hope of Israel, #271 Oh, Holy Words of Truth and Love, #274 The Iron Rod and #286 Oh, What Songs of the Heart. 

The tune was written by Henry Tuckett, candy maker and musician, 1852 – 1918.

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Watch This

Bells on Temple Square June 2022 Concert

This concert, “Life’s Journey’s,” was the first in 2 ½ years because of the Covid -19 restrictions. Selections include a variety of musical genres–hymns, anthems, classical and jazz. There’s also some performances by members of the Orchestra at Temple Square and Joseph Peeples–Temple Square Organist. You’ll enjoy the visual display that is part of the concert as well as a few surprises!

How Music Helps Refugees

https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y_3yLF9RYZg?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en&autohide=2&wmode=transparentSearch for:

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July 2022 Music Newsletter

“Teach your children to love the hymns. Sing to them on the Sabbath, in home evening, during scripture study, at prayer time. Sing as you work, as you play, and as you travel together. Sing hymns as lullabies to build faith and testimony in your young ones.” –“First Presidency Preface,” Hymns, 1985

Using Music to Sing Your Way Home

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Although enjoyable, recorded music doesn’t touch the tether that making music does. Giving children, youth, and adults opportunities to learn & make music at home and church is a blessing. You can even make music in the car by singing together!

How do you start making living music? Some Ideas:

  • Take and give music lessons
  • Support & accept musical attempts at home (no matter the stage of music)
  • Create opportunities to make music at church
  • Sing in the car, on walks, etc
  • Let youth play in YW and Priesthood meetings, Primary prelude, and in Sacrament meetings. Preludes can be a great opportunity and can engage youth and adults who otherwise might not be contributing. . . not to mention that it sets a wonderful atmosphere for our meetings.

Opening and closing hymns are not standard practice in our meetings now. . . BUT it doesn’t mean music is banned from our meetings. Support and use music – teach others to serve through music. There is joy in Singing Your Way Home.

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My Calling

Whatever your music calling, the stake is available to support, train, and answer questions for you. Please let us know if you would like to meet individually or as a group with your ward music brothers and sisters. Contact coalstakemusic@gmail.com or Sister Ginger Dean.

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What’s New

• Sacred Music tab in the Church Library App – Besides hymn texts and music, you can find a lot more. Take a look on your phone For instance…

  • A guitar accompaniment and vocal to “Be Thou Humble” ( see ‘Songs of Devotion’)
  • The name & audio of the beautiful hymn played at General Conference’s last session? (see ‘Conference Music’)
  • Didn’t you just love the 2016 Youth Theme Song? (find it in ‘Youth Music’)
  • Want to get your children’s attention before scripture study or church.
  • I need to refresh myself on conducting a 4/4 meter hymn (it’s in ‘Using the Hymnbook’)
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No matter your calling or family relationship, there is something for everyone!

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Up and Coming

The Michael O’Neal Singers (MOS) offering a concert Sunday 3 PM July 24th “Celebrate: Music for Joyous Occasions”

• Organ and Piano Coaching available at the Dahlonega, Coal Mountain, Brannon, and Union Hill buildings. Free. Contact coalstakemusic@gmail.com

• “Carry On” Music Festival – Sat 17 Sept. Seeking ensembles to perform from each unit in our stake. Any uplifting music and instrumentation welcome. Let Sister Dean know if you want to perform or need ideas for music at coalstakemusic@gmail.com

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Hymn Highlight

Come, Come Ye Saints # 30

William Clayton penned this hymn at the bequest of Brigham Young as a sort of rallying song in 1846. It was 103 miles west of Nauvoo after William learned that his wife had safely given birth back in Nauvoo. He penned the words feeling the inspiration of the Lord guide his effort and paired it with a folk tune. In his words,

“This morning I composed a new song, ‘All Is Well.’ I feel to thank my Heavenly Father for my boy. I hope that my wife will soon be well.”

When Brother Clayton first presented his hymn to the Saints as they gathered around the campfire at the end of a long, arduous day of travel, he undoubtedly had only his manuscript and was thus obliged to teach the song by rote—one line at a time—until they learned it. thetabernaclechoir.org

Because the hymn was a favorite of the trail pioneers, whenever someone started singing the song, the whole group would join in. To learn more interesting facts, click here.

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Watch This

‘Hymn for America’ was written by Stephen Paulus, lyrics by Michael Browne for Craig Jessop and the Tabernacle Choir.

Handel’s ‘Messiah’ is a very familiar piece but Handel wrote quite a bit of other music. ‘Zadok the Priest’ was written for the coronation of King George II in 1727 and has been sung at every British coronation since. It was last sung at Queen Elizabeth’s coronation in 1953. The lyrics are taken from scriptures that describe the anointing of Solomon the King in the Old Testament.

‘Carry On’ Stake Music Festival

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As some of you may be aware, on Saturday September 17, 2022, the Coal Mountain Stake will be hosting a Music Festival. (This is similar to the event that was scheduled last fall, but cancelled due to an uptick in Covid cases).

Time to dust off those drums, tune the trumpets, tinkle the ivories, warm up your voices, etc.

The stake would like to see every unit represented at this festival. Music does not need to be of a sacred nature–just uplifting, so this is a good chance to use a variety of instruments and music.

We also encourage youth to be involved as well as you might consider performing in ensembles (families?) to allow many people to participate.

Please consider what you have to share and/or invite others to join you. Contact coalstakemusic@gmail.com for questions or suggestions or to participate.