On Jan. 24 a total of 219 participants, representing 33 churches throughout the United States, attended the 17th Annual Schola Cantorum: An Adult Choir Member Workshop, held on the campus of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. Attendance for this workshop was the highest since 2003. Dr. Kurt von Kampen, conductor of choirs at Concordia University, Nebraska, served as this year’s clinician and trained, taught and encouraged the singers as they learned several different compositions. The Schola Cantorum was open to all choir members, choir directors and ministers of music. The schedule for the day included rehearsal sessions along with Morning and Closing Prayer services, at which the participants performed some of the music learned that day.

“This has been the best workshop experience,” one participant commented. “Loved the director’s humor! Nice to have a large group!”

The Choral Reading Session was held in conjunction with the Schola Cantorum on Jan. 23 in The Chapel of St. Timothy and St. Titus on the Concordia Seminary campus. In this evening of choral and instrumental song, Dr. von Kampen previewed new and current titles of music with participants.

“I couldn’t have asked for a more motivated, attentive and Spirit-filled group of singers,” said Dr. von Kampen, clinician for the workshop. “They were a complete joy to teach and conduct. I think if we had another week to work, we’d be ready to hit the road! Henry Gerike and Rick Marrs are to be commended for their work organizing this terrific event. I’m grateful to have been asked to lead this year’s Schola Cantorum workshop. To God be all glory!”

The 18th Annual Schola Cantorum will be held on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010. The clinician will be Dr. Christopher Aspaas of St. Olaf College. For more information about the Adult Choir Member Workshop, contact the Office of Continuing Education at 314-505-7486 or ce@csl.edu.