In 2013, the music ministry sought to include more choirs and ensembles within the context of worship. Through intentional planning, this goal exceeded our expectations. We observed all of our choirs, both vocal and instrumental, offering their musical gifts to God in worship. A second preschool choir was introduced, as well as a young adult ensemble. Moreover, the youth choir participated in the Jubilate Youth Choir festival in January and June. Several new opportunities were well accepted and attended as well, such as the Courtyard Concerts, hosting the American Choral Directors of Kentucky, and the first Creative Arts Camp for children. Good strides were made in the area of communication to our choristers, improving the usability of the music library and maintaining our musical instruments.
1. Chancel Choir
Challenge members to memorize choral offerings once a quarter
This was accomplished
Increase enrollment by 10%
Although attendance did not increase, enrollment did
Cultivate a sense of compassion among the members by creating 4 care teams
This was changed to two groups and needs to be tweaked to be more effective
Develop a young adult ensemble from within the chancel choir
This ensemble began rehearsing in the fall of 2013
2. Youth Choir
Increase frequency of worship involvement to every other month
This goal was met and exceeded
Introduce Jubilate Choir to the youth and congregation, January and June
This was accomplished and received well too
Offer opportunities to sing outside the walls of BBC once a quarter
Did not reach this goal…only happened two times
Monthly communication with youth choir parents and youth: via email, web and text
This area was much improved by consistent emails and texting
3. Children’s Choirs
Increase involvement of children‘s choir in worship to once a quarter
This goal was accomplished
Create a second choir for preschool or younger elementary
A second choir for preschoolers was created in the fall
Study/evaluate the need and feasibility of a summer music week for children
Creative arts camp was a big success and exceeded our expectations
Monthly communication with parents: via Facebook, email, web page
This improved but still needs more attention
4. Instrumentalists
Increase bell choir participation in worship to once a quarter.
This goal was exceeded
Seek and encourage talented instrumentalists within the church
and increase worship participation with these individuals
This goal was accomplished
Usage of Louisville Orchestra players throughout the year and at Christmas
This goal was accomplished
5. Congregational/Community
Concert Luncheons in Atrium/Courtyards this spring/summer
This exceeded expectations and was well received
Hymn sing once or twice on a Sunday or Wednesday evening
This did not get accomplished
Favorite anthem night offered to the congregation
This did not get accomplished
Host the KY State American Choral Directors Association summer Meeting
This went very well. Thus, it will be on the 2014 calendar too
6. Maintaining of Church Instruments and Improving Choral Library
This was accomplished
Cleaning of robes once a year
This was accomplished
Improving the organization and accessibility of the music library
This was accomplished and is an ongoing goal in 2014.