As Concordia students and faculty observe their regular chapel time, the Music Department welcome everyone to their Fall Sacred Music Recital on Sept. 25. Taking place in the Borland-Manske Center, the Fall Sacred Music Recital will provide thoughtful devotions paired alongside music by the Chamber Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. HyeJung Shin. 

Taking place during the regular 10:30 a.m chapel time, the Sacred Music Recital offers a unique experience of a musical concert that is combined scripture readings and student-led devotions. “With this concert being in the middle of the week and in the morning, I hope people are able to be encouraged and uplifted by the message of God’s unfailing love to us, which He demonstrated in the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross,” said junior Liberal Studies major, Annelise Jackson. 

With the Sacred Music Recital taking place once every semester, each recital chooses a specific theme to focus the repertoire and devotions around. This year the theme is “Unfailing Love,” with inspiration from Psalm 36:7. “This verse is a reminder that during this tumultuous time of the semester, we find true rest in Christ, our refuge,” said senior Flute Performance major, Ruth Pearson. 

While it may not be a weekend concert for the department, the Sacred Music Recital is equally as impactful on the students and faculty that it serves. “My favorite music is worship music, so the Sacred Music Recital is my favorite music event on campus. It has a blend of different worship music styles and is performed by talented students. I am so thankful for a campus that provides opportunities for students to share their faith and love for God through music,” said Pearson. 

Jackson finds a great significance in the unique format for the Sacred Music Recital. “I think the pairing of the devotions with music makes it all the more impactful. That way, if we are tempted to fixate on the music, instead of God’s glory, we can be redirected.” For Jackson, church music has played a principal role in her time at Concordia, as she has been involved on the worship teams for Sunday Source, Monday chapel band, Concordia Choir and SHOUT. 

For Pearson, the opportunity to perform in church contexts is deeply meaningful. “Growing up, I used to play flute at my church almost every Sunday, so I have been very grateful to have the opportunity to continue serving through church music on campus, through the Sacred Music Recital, or playing at chapel services.”

The Fall Sacred Music Recital will take place in Zhang Hall, of the Borland-Manske Center, on Sept. 25 at 10:30 a.m. This performance does not require a ticket and has free admission. For more information, please visit cui.edu/arts/music/events.

Tags: Alexander Carr

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