Developing a Program for the Local Community

Workshop presenters

Artistic and administrative leaders of successful programs in three states share their firsthand knowledge and experiences to equip church musicians, clergy, and lay leadership with practical tools for creating and sustaining a program in their parish.

Martin Jean, Director and Professor of Organ
Yale Institute of Sacred Music, New Haven, CT

Beverly Claflin, Director of Worship and Music; and Rebecca Mason, Administrator
Mount Olivet School of Music, Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, Minneapolis, MN

Joseph Ripka, Organist/Choir Director, Artistic Director
Calvary Music School, Calvary Church (Episcopal), Stonington, CT

Rev. Jared D. Wilson, Senior Associate Pastor
Madison Street Music & Arts Academy, Madison Street United Methodist Church, Clarksville, TN

Lawrence Zukof, former Executive Director
Neighborhood Music School, New Haven, CT

Workshop Topics

  • The Case for Music Education
  • Establishing the program’s mission
  • Organizational structure and relationship with the church
  • Hiring teachers, other personnel
  • Setting rates/payment deadlines, other policies
  • Facilities and instruments
  • Program administration and staffing
  • Beyond private lessons: group classes, ensembles, etc.

Photos of the event

  • Participants discussing program
  • Learning about music program in the parish
  • Two women talking during the program
  • Panel of presenters at a table talking