https://www.jameskennerley.com/upcoming-performances
Satuday, May 3, 2025
10:30 am - 12:00 Noon
Hymn Playing and Service Improvisation Clinic
James Kennerley, Presenter
St. Paul's Episcopal Church
914 E. Knapp St.
Milwaukee, WI
Organists and pianists play a vital role in leading and enriching congregational singing. This workshop offers a chance to explore techniques in liturgical organ accompaniment, including hymnody, improvisation, descants, and reharmonization. Through hands-on sessions and shared insights, participants will gain practical tools to bring creativity and depth to worship music. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills or discover new approaches, this gathering provides an opportunity to learn, experiment, and connect with fellow musicians in a supportive environment.
Some topics to be covered:
Appropriate organ registrations for hymns and service music regarding congregation size and age. Use of mixtures – yes or no?
Strategies for playing hymns requested for funerals and weddings, where there is often no singing congregation.
The tempo of hymns and service music is adjusted for room acoustics.
Accompanying chant-style hymns and service music. Need for pedals? More foundational tone, less upper work?
How do you register the organ for leadership when a cantor is involved?
Use tone colors and swell expression pedals to highlight verses or text phrases.
Repeat seasonal hymns and effective pedagogy for congregational music.
Using hymn and choral arrangements, descants, free harmonizations, and improvisation.
The church's main doors on E. Knapp Street will open at 10:00 a.m. The ADA ramp and entrance are situated in the courtyard on the east side of the church building. Parking is available in the church lot on the north side of the church and on the street.
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