Meet Bryan Taylor: Your New SWACDA Music and Worship R&R Chair
Introduction
I am excited to represent SWACDA and all the great church music directors as your Music and Worship Repertoire and Resource chair.
I cherish the opportunity to lead, learn, and grow through the excellent church leaders we have in SWACDA.
Let’s get more friends involved who aren’t yet part of our organization!
Background
I am in my 29th year as the Director of Traditional Music and Worship Arts at Liberty United Methodist Church in Liberty, Missouri.
I have just finished my 32nd season as a singer in the Kansas City Chorale.
I am the founder and director of the Liberty Community Chorus, now in its 23rd season.
Sabbatical Experience
Currently, I am in the middle of a five-week sabbatical to renew, rest, and refill my heart and soul for continued leadership in church music.
I promised my wife, Lanette, and my church that I would not work on church music during this time. So far, so good!
This sabbatical has taught me the importance of allowing time for rest and restoration, something we often neglect as church music directors.
Mentorship and Renewal
I believe in grounding myself with mentors who are well-versed in our craft and offer sound advice.
Dr. Craig Jessop (former director of the Tabernacle Choir) has been a dear friend and mentor since 1998.
Craig helped me plan a wonderful time in Salt Lake City, including observing rehearsals with the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra.
My time with Craig, Mack Wilberg, and the musicians in the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra has helped reset my clock of renewal and inspiration.
Recommended Reading
I packed a few reading items for my sabbatical, including “Conscience of a Profession” by Howard Swan.
This book, though a little dated (1987), contains many nuggets of inspirational gold, including topics on being an inspirational leader, personal and musical responsibilities, and creating excellence in choirs.
I encourage you to get this book or dust off your copy and read it again.
Upcoming Focus Areas
Great sacred literature, vintage to new
Three Christmas pieces that might interest you:
The Sparrow’s Carol – Bob Chilcott, Oxford (with permission), SATB & Organ
Love’s Pure Light (Silent Night) – Elaine Hagenberg, Elaine Hagenberg Publ., SATB – EH1020 (Strings avail)
A Voice, A Chime – Philip Silvey, SATB & Piano, Mark Foster/Hal Leonard 00319840
Artistic ideas for worship and ministry
Conversations about our post-pandemic church worlds
Concert and cantata ideas for your church music ministry
Invitation
Your input is vital and encouraged.
Please email me to introduce yourself and share about your church music ministry.
Bryan Taylor
Email: [email protected]
