Article
Reflections on the Association of Anglican Musicians Conference
by Anna Teagarden
Along with Steve Newberry, I attended the Association of Anglican Musicians (AAM) Annual Conference this year as a full member of the association for the first time. The conference was held in Atlanta, Georgia, this past June, and it was a delight to spend several days surrounded by like-minded church musicians, all striving for excellence to the glory of God.
The theme for the week was Round the Lord in Glory Seated, the stunning hymn that bridges the gap between the worship of the Church on earth and in heaven. It could not have been a more fitting choice. Every service felt like a glimpse of paradise as more than 300 professional musicians lifted their voices in praise. I found myself in tears several times throughout the week.
One of the joys of the conference is that each host city has the opportunity to showcase its churches, traditions, and culture. Atlanta certainly did not disappoint. We began the week with the Opening Eucharist at St. Luke's Episcopal Church on Peachtree Street, led by my dear friend Matthew Brown. It was truly overwhelming to sit in the pews and simply worship. As church musicians, we are usually the ones leading worship, so having no responsibilities and allowing the beauty, excellence, and heartfelt intention of the liturgy to wash over us was a remarkable gift.
Every service felt like a glimpse of paradise.
We attended several outstanding organ recitals, including one by our own Grace Jackson, this year's Gerre Hancock Intern from St. John the Divine. I could not have been more proud of her. She played with remarkable poise and artistry, presenting a recital that was both engaging and inspiring.
Grace's recital was followed by Morning Prayer: A Service of Readings and Prayers for Justice and Human Rights, a liturgy that was especially meaningful in Atlanta. The service included readings from Desmond Tutu, Mahatma Gandhi, the Book of Isaiah, Susan B. Anthony, the Gospel of Matthew, and, of course, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The music was led by the legendary Carl Haywood. Dr. Haywood has played a pivotal role in the Episcopal Church's musical tradition as a former member of the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music, and his compositions are included in Lift Every Voice and Sing II (LEVAS II). Meeting him was one of the highlights of my week.
We also heard the Atlanta Master Chorale and participated in many other beautiful services that offered yet another glimpse of heaven. I returned home renewed, refreshed, and deeply inspired as we prepare for another year of music ministry at St. John the Divine. That is exactly what these conferences are designed to do, and this one accomplished it beautifully.
I am so grateful that Steve and I had the opportunity to attend, learn, and be inspired. We look forward to bringing what we experienced back to St. John the Divine as we continue offering our very best in worship, all to the glory of God.