(November 6, 2014)

Sacred Music Workshop and Festival to feature Centenary choirs

SHREVEPORT, LA — Centenary College and First United Methodist Church are hosting a Sacred Music Workshop and Festival from Friday, November 7, to Sunday, November 9, with guest clinician Dr. John Ferguson.

Ferguson recently retired from an impressive tenure at St. Olaf College, where the organ and church music programs gained national prestige under his leadership. Each year he prepares and leads several festivals across the country both for local congregations and professional gatherings. Included among Dr. Ferguson's other achievements are an impressive array of sacred compositions and conducting accomplishments with the St. Olaf Cantorei. During the weekend-long clinic, church members, local church musicians, and the students of Centenary College will benefit from his insights and the versatility of his gifts as composer, organist, conductor, and in worship design.

"He involves everyone present in a glorious community of sound," said past president of the Hymn Society Emily Brink. "Everyone gets to perform."

The First Methodist Chancel Choir, Centenary Camerata, and Centenary College Choir will attend the weekend's events. Guest choristers are all welcome to join the experience as well.

Events and locations are listed below.

Friday, November 7
12:00 p.m. Demonstration Choral Rehearsal
Anderson Auditorium, Centenary College

2:00 p.m. Worship Planning Seminar
Anderson 120, Centenary College

5:30 p.m. Organ Service Playing Demonstration
Sanctuary, First United Methodist Church

Saturday, November 8
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Combined Choir Rehearsal
Sanctuary, First United Methodist Church

Sunday, November 9
3 p.m. Festival Worship: "We Sing of God's Love - A Celebration in Song"
Sanctuary, First United Methodist Church

The final worship service is ecumenical in spirit, so all are welcome to attend and add their voices to the congregational singing. All the events are free and open to the public.