1855 Knollcrest Circle SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546-4402 USA
On the campus of Calvin University
© 2026 Calvin Institute of Christian Worship
Musicians who lead worship are not merely performers, directors, coordinators, or music industry peddlers. We are primarily pastoral people—priestly leaders who shape the prayers and acclamations of God’s people.
In the age of the internet, we all have access to hundreds of thousands of songs. Hundreds more are written each week. There are dozens of remarkable songs written that are biblically faithful, musically excellent, theologically robust, liturgically fitting, and singable by ordinary people—but they can be hard to find!
Volume in worship can be a touchy subject, one full of tensions. However, by looking at it through the lens of Universal Design and applying this principle to volume, we can see the many tensions in play and work together to glorify the Lord and lead God's people in song.
Sometimes the Bible rejoices when joined by song and sound! In this workshop, we experience a variety of simple ways music can help us receive the scripture in worship with our heads and our hearts.
This workshop is designed to explore the riches of Lutheran hymnody for those, like Professor Noll, who are not themselves Lutherans. We take a quick historical journey to note important landmarks.
Explore musical settings of the biblical Psalms shaped by a black gospel idiom, the power of call-and-response approaches to singing, and a deep commitment to engage the full congregation in singing as prompted by soloists or choirs.
So many worship conversations go awry because people and congregations don’t know how to talk about what they do or value in worship. Both Christian and non-Christian scholars can help.
Suggestions from a pastor and worship leader for percussion instruments for worship, for use by adults and children.
This service of Lessons and Carols from 2015 eagerly anticipates Christ's second coming with Christ-centered hope.
Maybe there are people in your church or neighborhood whose first language is different than yours. Singing simple songs in their language is a fantastic way to welcome them in worship.
Churches are constantly navigating the copyright maze when they use music, other print resources, and videos. Each medium has slightly different laws regulating it.
Having a good voice isn’t enough to sing gospel music well and lead people into worship. This ministry requires health in body, mind and spirit.
