Leader of the People's Song
A reflection by Cantor Bev JedynakEver wonder why my title at St. Lukes is Cantor? Cantor is a historical term among Lutherans that means leader of the peoples song. In this role, the Cantors responsibility is to lead the musical expression of the people: the assembly, the choral groups, solo singers, instrumentalists, using whatever musical resources are available in a manner appropriate to the talents of those serving and the needs of the people being served. The ALCM (Association of Lutheran Church Musicians) has a wonderful poster that describes the Role of the Cantor noting that it is a high and holy calling and yes, it is and I continually give thanks that I am able to serve in this way at St. Lukes. It is also somewhat challenging and awe-inspiring as well.Its a role that fits me well. I cant think of a time when music has not been a part of my life. Its just thereits one of my senses. My mom has told me that when I was a toddler rather than talk (and I guess I was a pretty late talker) I would point to what I wanted and make a ta-da sound like a trumpet it got the message across. Ive been told that when I was about three I would imitate a very popular flamboyant pianist who was on television at the time even to the point of bowing deeply and saying, Thank you very much, just like he did. (Apparently my folks thought it was so cute they put a small candelabra on the bookcase that I was using as my piano). This desire to play the piano has been something that has been there forever even though it wasnt until the day after my 11th birthday that I had my first piano lesson and with my left wrist in a splint!My mother also has told me that at as a small child I would tell her: Mommy, I hear music; why do I hear music in my head? I still do hear music always. It might be a hymn or song that simply stays in my head. Or some other music. I am convinced that if I were in the wilderness I would still hear music.
And, even though I have memories of doing lots of musical things (e.g. singing solos, playing the piano, etc.) in school, it was in the church where my gifts were truly nurtured. Whether singing; playing What a Friend we Have in Jesus the first hymn I could play with two hands for the Sunday School closing; leading Bible camp songs, talent shows or revues; accompanying soloists and choirs; all led to eventually becoming a church organist and Cantor at St. Lukes.Music is one way that I pray. I feel Gods presence very strongly through music. For some people, its the outdoors. or meditation. or journaling for me it's being alone at a piano or organ and playing. It can be playing Beethoven, Mozart or Mancini on the piano or Bach and hymn preludes by Burkhardt, Cherwien or Manz at the organ. I've found comfort in times of great sorrow and reassurance during turbulent periods. With help from pianomoversoftexas.com, people like me, who want to take their enjoyment of playing the piano with them wherever they go, can get their piano where it needs to be. Through music I respond with both joy and thanksgiving (usually at an organ with a full-stop Now Thank We All God or Bach toccata or fugue or some other big, fun piece!)