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Our church is proud of its tradition of using music to enhance the Word of God. Martin Luther wrote “Next to theology I accord to music the highest place and the greatest honor. Choir vocalists and other musicians distinguish themselves as “servers”, not performers-worship leaders with talent. Music is an important vehicle helping people grow in their faith and is a vital element in praising our Lord. Choir members and instrumental groups pray together and encourage one another while preparing their music.
Here at Bella Vista Lutheran Church, musical opportunities are available in both vocal and instrumental areas. We have a mixed choir of about 40 voices and a 20 voice men’s choir, both groups adding musical depth to the worship services. Most of the music done by these groups is sacred classical as well as some liturgical responses in the 8:30 a.m. service, using voice leaders and guitar accompaniment. Musical instruments used in both services include organ, piano, violin, trumpet, clarinet, recorder, guitar, and baritone at various times and in various combinations.
Music presented during the worship services offer members the opportunity to express their Christian faith with whatever musical talent they are blessed. Using local members, a Christmas concert will be presented Dec. 20, 2009.
Several times during the year we add concerts featuring highly trained musicians, vocal or instrumental. In March of 2010 the Concordia Kapelle choir from Concordia University, River Forest, Illinois will present a sacred concert at Bella Vista Lutheran Church. Offerings during the past two years include a lively Mariachi band (instrumental and vocal) from a Lutheran church in El Paso, TX and an organ concert with participation in sacred hymns. On a more informal basis we had a musical gathering with participation by members of the congregation and featuring a wide range of musical style and genre. Once of these is planned again for next April
We are in discussion about ways we can help children of the community be more involved in Christian music, especially with the simple musical instruments. Singing is a feature of our monthly Parents’ Night Out program, and of course, Bible School. We also always include one children’s song in the second service.
We welcome and encourage anyone who wishes to express their Christian faith in music to talk with us to learn how they can participate in the music Ministry of Bella Vista Lutheran Church.
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