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Greetings from the ALCM 2011 National Conference planning committee,
As you read through the conference web site, we think you will become as excited about the possibilities for next summer as we on the committee are ...
We have inspiring headliners: Dr. Christian Scharen from Luther Seminary will enlighten us through contemporary theological insights. Pastor Pam Fickenscher will share informed perspectives from the working church. Noted Lutheran musicians Anton Armstrong and John Ferguson will lead a dynamic new ecumenical hymn festival redesigned for the 21st century. All four will address the theme of "God's People Sing: Abundance, Challenge, Joy."
We will have engaging workshops and discussions: David Hein, Program Chair, is planning great learning experiences at workshops to enrich our work as church musicians. A discussion panel moderated by Dr. Paul Westermeyer will explore the challenge of choosing music for God's people to sing - how do you choose what is appropriate for your congregation?
We will have quality worship - long a hallmark of our national conferences: Martin Seltz and his distinguished committee from Washington State are planning worship which will truly inspire. Major worship opportunities will include an opening Service of the Word and closing Eucharist.
We have a great location: Local committee chair, Arletta Anderson is hosting us in one of the best venues possible for a National Conference. Seattle University is in the heart of downtown Seattle. It is small enough to easily walk across campus and yet large enough for all the facilities we need. In addition, it is minutes from world-renowned sites like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle.
We will have a wonderful learning opportunity: At the Post-Conference you will be able to choose one or two areas to pursue in depth. You can deepen your present experience and knowledge in one area or try something new. Chair Randy Knutson is planning master classes that matter to working church musicians. With only one class in the morning and another in the afternoon, there will be plenty of time to expand and learn.
Rounding out the committee is Karla Devine, our Print Media Chair, and Valerie Lefever Hughes, our New Media Chair. You are experiencing Val's great work on this website right now! Many thanks in advance to all committee members for their hard work on all the details that make a great conference.
I hope you will make it a point to set aside these dates in 2011. You could arrive on Friday or Saturday (July 29 or 30) and attend the Augsburg Fortress workshop in Seattle - which just happens to be in town that weekend - or go on an afternoon outing to Tillicum Island, or visit one of the other great attractions in the area. Then, attend the conference Sunday, July 31 through Wednesday, August 3 and stay for the Post-Conference on Thursday, August 4. In fact, come earlier or stay longer and enjoy SU's thrifty housing rates - even for families - and the Pacific Northwest, a great vacation location. See you in Seattle!
Marshall Bowen
2011 National Conference Chair
