
2nd-5th of July
ContentPresenters
Introduction
Music is near to the heart of God - the Bible makes this very clear. Even the heavens and mountains sing, the rivers and trees clap their hands, and the seas roar with praise! In creating music, God has given us a very powerful tool for praising Him and encouraging one another, and He delights to hear His children making melody to Him from their hearts.
Praising God with music is so much more than just playing an instrument, however. It is also understanding the meaning of true worship, knowing the message of the music, and using appropriate skills to glorify God and not the performer.
Practical SkillsThis seminar is designed to give participants a practical, "hands-on"
understanding of these concepts. The topics covered will include:
- Voice instruction
- Improvisation skills & techniques
- Choral training
- General music literacy
- Conducting
- Congregational and choral song leading
Workshops
Comprised of seminar sessions, workshops, and master classes, the course is open to
both experienced musicians and beginners at all stages. The instructors are gifted
and experienced, not only in their fields, but also in using theirs talents to God's glory.
Some of the workshops available are:
- Vocal training
- Orchestration and arranging for multiple instruments
- Piano improvisation
- String and solo instrument improvisation
- Song writing
Philosophy of Music
Beyond practical knowledge, however, it is important to understand the inherent meaning
of music itself. We will discuss the morality of music from God's point of view to
determine the place of music in the Church and in a Christian's life. In exploring the
Biblical perspective of music, participants will gain understanding in evaluating music
and recognizing its underlying messages.
- The Influences of Music
- Choosing Your Music
- The Theology of Music
- Understanding Biblical Worship
- The Historical Context of Music
- God's Intentions for Music
Those who are unable to attend the entire program are welcome to join for just the music philosophy conference, starting on Friday night.
About the Presenters
Jason Harris - Worship Music Ministries
Jason has a burden to preach the word of God and has taught biblical principles of music
in Australia and in various other parts of the world. A gifted vocalist, he has produced
a solo album titled "A Closer Walk", as well as recording for The Wilds, Majesty Music, and
SoundForth. He has been involved with Worship Music Ministries since 1996, providing practical
resources to Australian churches. Jason has a Bachelor of Music degree from Bob Jones
University and a Graduate of Theology degree from Sydney Bible Baptist College.
Kylie Lau - IBLP & Te Deum Ensemble
Kylie is a classically trained pianist with a strong passion for seeing Godly music in the
Church. She began learning the piano when she was four years old, and by the age of eleven
was teaching and regularly playing in church services. She was awarded the AMEB Associate
Diploma in Piano Performance (AMusA) when she was sixteen, and her main gifts lie in
improvisation and arranging. Kylie has produced two albums with the Te Deum Ensemble, as well
as "Sketches", a solo piano album, and "F-A-I-T-H", a recording of some of her
children's songs.
Shane Chen - Te Deum Ensemble
Shane was born in Hangzhou, China. The son of a professional musician, he started learning
violin at the age of five, and was offered a scholarship to the prestigious Juliard School
of Music in New York, USA, when he was only nine years old. His performing experience includes
solo appearances with the Shenzhen Youth Orchestra, although now that Christ has given him
a real reason to make music from his heart, he plays mainly for Christian events. Shane has
extensive improvising and arranging experience, and has made two albums with the Te Deum
Ensemble, "Make Me a Blessing" and "Many Crowns".
Grace Wong - IBLP
Grace began her music studies at the age of five. At the age of thirteen, she was awarded
the AMEB Associate Diploma in Piano Performance (AMusA) and at fifteen, the Licentiate Diploma
(LMusA). She has won numerous scholarships and awards, including the Sydney and National
Eisteddfods. In 2005, she passed the AMEB seventh grade music theory examinations with
honours. Grace enjoys teaching both piano and violin in her own studio and giving regular
concerts with her siblings. She is currently studying composition under London-based
composer, Wendy Hiscocks, and is taking Bible courses through the Telos Institute
International. Grace's desire is to deepen her relationship with God and use her music to
serve and glorify Him.