The clich� goes: "The only constant in life is change." Indeed, in the past 30-40 years computers have sprung from almost nothing into becoming the center of our activities, with a dizzying pace of development which continues. This is but one example of many ways in which so little stays the same for all of creation.
 

One thing does not change:  God.

Reflecting this unchanging, loving constant, embodied in our evolving temporal and contextual musical expression, the hymn festival program includes hymns and choral literature from a variety of times and places, from chant to chorale, from Iona to Africa - sung in interactive, creative ways by the congregation, National Lutheran Choir, inspired by instrumentalists of Lutheran Music Program, and organ and piano improvisation by Director/Organist David Cherwien. Choral literature will also be in abundance, with works by Hildegard von Bingen, Ola Gjielo, Ariel Ramir�z, Paul Manz, Charles Marie Widor, J. S. Bach, Larry L. Fleming, F. Melius Christiansen, and Alexander Archangelsky. Of special note will be two brand-new choral works, one commissioned by the NLC for this event: Paul Weber's choral setting of "With High Delight," and the 2013 Raabe Prize winner "Nada Te Turbe" by Jake Runestad. Pulling it all together in thought-provoking ways will be reflections read in person by poet/hymn writer Susan Palo Cherwien.

Is it a hymn program? Is it a choral concert? Is it a liturgy of sorts? It's all of these. What are you open to entering into? One thing we hope for: that you join us for this journey.

The Summer 2013 Region 4 newsletter has been posted. Although this newsletter has some items that are specific to Region 4, all ALCM members will find valuable information. This is "An Advent/Christmas Feature Issue."