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rhythms and note intervals. There was something there for everyone. I received very positive feedback from these class options. The children’s class is always focused on learning new songs, shaped notes and just having a wonderful time. They enjoy games, crafts, snacks, and activities. They leave knowing the shape notes much better than the adults. The choir time is full of learning new Southern Gospel songs in four part harmony and learning to skillfully praise our Lord and Savior in song.” The average attendance in recent years has been around 40, but Marcie said she would love to see more people participate in the schools. The sessions

are free and open to anyone. When asked if she believes the schools are relevant in today’s world, Marcie has a heart-felt answer. “I feel that music school and the topics that are taught are just as important now as they were then,” she said. “Music has always been used, from Biblical times to present, to worship and praise our Lord. Our Lord can use hymns and songs to calm our souls or to give comfort and hope. The most recognizable and loved hymns that God has given us through his musically skilled children would not have been written on paper and would not have been shared with others

without someone being knowledgeable in the things of music. Can you imagine the world without the songs “Amazing Grace”, “How Great Thou Art”, or “Blessed Assurance”? Just like the authors of these pieces of music, the people who now read and sing these songs must be knowledgeable in music in order for the songs to touch and inspire others. Music is simply a language that our old loved hymns are written in, and if we don’t know how to read it, then we lose it. I thank my Lord and Savior for giving me the desire to share musical knowledge and the tools to share it effectively.”  ECL

years ago. Both brothers were gifted singers and musicians, and Walter was a member of the

famed “Stamps Quartet” for many years.