Music at GPPC
Over and over, new members and long-time members alike cite the music program as one of the most important aspects in the life of Ginter Park Presbyterian Church; many are drawn to visit or join this church because of the music program. Douglas Brown, GPPC’s full-time director of music, has identified these strengths in the program:
- At GPPC, music and worship are deeply rooted in scripture. Sunday morning worship services are saturated with scripture, and music introduces, responds to, and reflects upon these texts.
- At GPPC, music is deeply rooted in worship. The adult choir leads at Sunday morning worship services and the children lead at Wednesday Vespers services.
- At GPPC, music is diverse. Hymns, anthems, responses, and organ music come from many times and places.
- At GPPC, music is supported by architecture. Hard plaster walls and a vaulted ceiling help to empower the congregation to sing as God calls them to sing.
- At GPPC, music is supported by the congregation. The congregation has a long tradition of caring deeply about its music program, and the openness of the congregation plays a key role in the strength of this program.
On February 28, 2008, Doug wrote an Op/Ed piece on “Music for Worship” for the Richmond Times Dispatch that describes much of the philosophy of church music that GPPC espouses. Read it here.
I’ve been a member of GPPC for over 31 years. Music has been integral to everything I’ve done here. Whether working with children’s choir, directing choirs, playing the organ, singing in the choir - it’s all been a gift I’ve been able to give to the Lord. Sharing the wonders of a hymnbook with a child is a joy! It’s wonderful to see parents sharing their hymnbooks with their children, helping them learn the beautiful hymns of the faith. Enjoying seeing someone realize how tightly woven the liturgy and music is - that’s another delight. Sharing the gift of a voice raised in the praise to God - that’s awesome to me. The Psalms are full of music and instruments working together in praise to the Lord. It’s reassuring to see that’s still true through all the millennia that have passed. “Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise in the assembly of the faithful” and “Let everything that breathes praise the Lord!” – Sherry M.