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Musicians Helping Musicians--Sacred Music Institute, July 28-Aug. 1

2009 Sacred Music Institute2009 Sacred Music InstitutePaul Jabara, Chairman of the Sacred Music Institute, writes, 

"Dear Church Musicians,

This year marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Sacred Music Institute. When I think back on the early years, I remember a group of music lovers who “boldly went where no one had gone before”. We didn’t know what to expect, but quickly learned that the Sacred Music Institute was not only a place of learning, but also a place of love. Musicians helping musicians…Christians helping Christians. Friendships were formed and these bonds are thriving to this day. Personally, my earliest memory of the SMI was as a young seventeen-year-old being coached by Maestro James Meena, and directing my first Cherubic Hymn. How the years have passed…Twenty-four years later, I found myself organizing the Sacred Music Institute and here we are at year twenty-five.

The curriculum has expanded over the years. Here are some of the highlights being planned:

• We welcome back our beloved Bishop Basil, the music department’s overseer, and look forward to hearing his words of inspiration and musical brilliance.

• An expanded Byzantine Music Program will be led by Charlie Marge of the Boston Byzantine Chorale, and Dr. Sam Cohlmia, Protopsaltis of the Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America and St. George Cathedral, Wichita, Kansas. Additional faculty are Dr. Stephen Esper of St. George Cathedral, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Dr. Jessica Suchy-Pilalis, a specialist in the history, theory and practice of Byzantine music and Protopsaltis of the Greek Archdiocese.

• Classes on Theory, Vocal Techniques, Choral Conducting and Music for Mission Parishes will also be offered, just to name a few.

• For the second year, and back by popular demand, is the SMI Chamber Choir, who along with the Boston Byzantine Choir will be performing a concert featuring selections of Orthodox music from various traditions.

If you have never attended a Sacred Music Institute before, this is the perfect time to join in and participate in a wonderful weekend of musical fellowship and learning. And if you are a regular attendee, we look forward to seeing you again for this milestone celebration!