April 2019
Dean’s Column

Five centuries before Christ, Greek philosopher Anaximander constructed the first map. He made Miletus – a city in western Turkey where he lived – the center of the world. Perhaps his decision was less ego than experience. How tempting it is to consider our lives being the center of the world, myopically seeing only what is important to us and our personal pursuits and responsibilities.

In this season of Lent, as I take time to focus inwardly, I’m reminded daily that life does not center on my little world. I resonate with David as he prayed in Psalm 61:2. “from the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”

An “eternal perspective”, or at least one focused outside ourselves is invaluable as we seek to serve others in whatever role we have. This liturgical season gives us the opportunity to reflect on not just being better musicians as we prepare for Easter, but better people, filled with love and grace for those we minister to and alongside.

Warmly,
Judy

Past Overtones

July 2019
Dean’s Column

Americans will consume 818 hot dogs every second from Memorial Day to Labor Day. I’m not sure who figures these things out….but I do know that this is the season most of us take time out to do things outside the realm of music. If you haven’t been to a Cubs game,...

June 2019
Dean’s Column

I like this quote by Martin Luther King that I recently read, “Everybody can be great. Because anybody can serve." Though as a musician, we might be content to just enjoy the experience of learning and performing beautiful music, often our responsibilities entail much...