MONTREAT CONFERENCE CENTER
MONTREAT, NORTH CAROLINA
2025 Worship & Music Conference
Classes
The Worship & Music Conference offers a wide variety of
classes, seminars, and musical activities for attendees of all ages.
Click the images below to view each category of classes we have to offer.
Click on the class instructor's name to be directed to their faculty bio.
Adult Classes
CEU indicates that a course or session can be counted for Continuing Education Units.
PAM Cert indicates that a course or session counts toward specific requirements of PAM Certification.
IG indicates that a course or session is an intergenerational offering.
Adult Bible: The Good Samaritan Again and Again
Mark Douglas
When Jesus is asked, “Who is my neighbor?” he responds with a parable that undermines and intensifies the question. We will undermine and intensify it again, viewing the parable through many lenses.
CEU , PAM Cert I.3
Adult Chamber Choir
Lynda Hasseler - Director
John Alexander - Collaborative Pianist
This auditioned ensemble rehearses twice daily, Monday through Thursday, and sings periodically during the week, including the evening Chamber Concert. Auditions take place during Sunday Check-In. Those selected must purchase a music packet from the on-site store at the first rehearsal. If you are 18–20 years of age, you are invited to audition for the Senior High Chamber Choir OR the Adult Chamber Choir, but not both.
PAM Cert IV.1
African Drumming
Daniel Otu
No experience necessary. Discover the basics and fun of playing the West African djembe. Learn proper hand technique and timing while practicing traditional djembe rhythms and sharing love through drums.
PAM Cert IV.1, IG
Art Workshop: Oil Pastel, Shapes and Colors
The Artist-in-Residence will lead a class to explore themes of being Clothed in Love, using oil pastels to create simple shapes and symbols that say to the students, THIS is what being clothed in love means to me.
CEU , PAM Cert I.1 , IG
Awakening Joy & Soul at the Console*
Tom Trenney
Join in an empowering, encouraging organ seminar to explore new possibilities in improvisation, repertoire, and service playing to deepen the joy and soul of our spirits and our ministry. This class meets four times a week, Monday through Thursday.
CEU , PAM Cert IV.1 , IG
*This class meets four times a week, Monday through Thursday.
Building a Faithful Legacy
Erin Skinner and Dana Waters - Week 1
Stefanie Marsden - Week 2
Discover how to build a meaningful legacy rooted in love and faith through real-life examples, practical tools, and actionable strategies. You will learn how to create a lasting impact on your community, leaving a legacy of faith.
Chaos Ministry in Small Churches
Marcus Hong
Together we will learn how to cultivate art-filled, joyful, intergenerational worshiping ecologies for small church contexts.
PAM Cert I.1
Choir (Adult)
John Alexander - Collaborative Pianist
All choirs rehearse twice daily to prepare for singing in worship and the Friday concert.
PAM Cert IV.1
Choral Reading Sessions
Monday Week 1 & 2: Choristers Guild
Emily Floyd - Director
Higher Ground: Music to Elevate the Soul
Explore delightful music for adult, youth, and children's choirs that will take your program to new heights.
Tuesday Week 1, Thursday Week 2: GIA Publications, Inc.
Brandon Waddles - Director
Sing through new choral and congregational music in a variety of styles and voicings, including works by Dr. Waddles.
Wednesday Week 1 & 2: MorningStar Music Publishers
Michael Burkhardt - Director
Featuring new releases with a variety of voicings, the session will include new publications in the PAM series.
Thursday Week 1, Tuesday Week 2: St. James Music Press
Kevin Simons - Director
Choral reading session for small church choirs.
Composing for Children's Voices
Michael Burkhardt
Sessions will explore vocal, pedagogical, age, and contextual considerations for composing and arranging for children's voices. Participants are encouraged to bring compositions for review and feedback.
CEU , PAM Cert IV.1
Conducting the Choir
Amy Kotsonis
This class welcomes conductors of all experience levels and focuses on gestures and rehearsal techniques that make efficient use of limited rehearsal and repertoire schedule of church choirs.
CEU , PAM Cert IV.1 , IG
Dance as Spiritual Practice
This class invites participants to embody prayer, Scripture, and devotion. This approach combines physical expression with spiritual reflection, fostering a deeper connection with God and one's body.
PAM Cert IV.1 , IG
Educate Children in Song & Worship
Heather Williams Potter and Stephanie McIlwain Miller
Looking to educate your children and youth in prayer and song? Learn a year of valuable techniques for nurturing future church leaders
PAM Cert IV.1
Environmental Faith for an Environmental Age
Mark Douglas
Exploring emerging visions of environmental ethics, this class will consider how to ethically engage the nonhuman natural world with faithful practices when that world both awes and endangers us.
Handbell Seminar
Brenda Austin
Handbell excellence! Directors and ringers explore problem-solving strategies and expand ringing technique.
Handbell expression! Learn to ring with nuance using everyday movement and intentionality.
Handbell enjoyment! Have a little fun while you learn and grow.
PAM Cert IV.1
Handbells - Beginning Handchimes*, Beginning Handbells, Intermediate*,
Advanced*, and Advanced Auditioned
Brenda Austin and Martha Matthews
Beginning Handchimes: Using handchimes, learn to read music in preparation for ringing handbells (Music Level 1).
PAM Cert IV.1 , IG
Beginning Handbells: Handbell techniques for those who can already read music but are new to ringing with limited handbell experience (Music Levels 1, 2).
PAM Cert IV.1 , IG
Intermediate: For those who have rung in bell choirs before and feel moderately proficient in reading music and using most handbell techniques (Music Levels 2+, 3+).
PAM Cert IV.1 , IG
Advanced: For those who ring regularly and feel confident in all handbell techniques and upper-level performance (Music Levels 3+, 4+).
PAM Cert IV.1 , IG
Advanced (Auditioned): For experienced and proficient ringers (Music Levels 4, 5). Auditions held on site during Check-In hours.This ensemble will perform in the Thursday evening Chamber Concert.
PAM Cert IV.1 , IG
*The 9:00 am Auditioned Advanced Handbells, 1:30 pm Advanced Handbells, 3:30 pm Intermediate Handbells, and 4:30 pm Beginning Handchimes will meet four times each week, Monday through Thursday.
Instrumental Ensembles
Max Gambrell - Intern
These ensembles provide opportunities for all instrumentalists to rehearse and perform during the conference. An on-site interview for ensemble placement is required during Sunday Check-In.
PAM Cert IV.1 , IG
Liturgy Seminar: The Words of the People
David Gambrell
Participants will develop their skills in writing, selecting, and editing prayers for public worship, examining elements of literary style and liturgical context. No previous experience is necessary.
CEU , PAM Cert I.1
Organ Seminar
John Alexander
This seminar will explore a variety of topics related to serving as a church organist, including service playing, repertoire for different occasions, and choral accompaniment.
CEU , PAM Cert IV.1 , IG
Painting God’s Love
Richard Deibert
Introducing Eastern Orthodox iconography! The self-giving love of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit for one another overflows into creation with glory for paint as well as preaching. Come, sing, and see!
PAM Cert I.1
Preaching Seminar: Reading the Text in Context(s)
Margaret Aymer
"What is written? How do you read it?" (Luke 10:26). Together, we read Scripture in its contexts (historical and literary) and our own, to hear how the Word speaks to us through the Scriptures.
Professional Development: Energy, Intelligence, Imagination
How do we lead faithfully? Join this professional development class for conversations about our calling as church musicians. Come and learn new skills or tune up those you already have.
CEU , PAM Cert 2.1
Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs
Nancy Graham
This class will examine the history and definition of each type of sung praise using examples found in Glory to God and compositions by conference musicians.
PAM Cert I.1
Reading Session: Handbells
Brenda Austin and Martha Matthews
Routley Lecture
Ana Hernández
We will learn how sound enhances well-being through breathwork, working with our energy centers and by learning simple, powerful songs to incorporate into our prayer lives and carry back to our communities.
CEU , PAM Cert I.1
Songwriting and Poetry in Song
David LaMotte
In a conference populated with lots and lots of highly skilled musicians, we will focus mostly, but not entirely, on lyrics. All levels of experience welcome.
IG , PAM Cert I.1
String Chamber Ensembles
Max Gambrell - Intern
These ensembles provide opportunities for string instrumentalists to rehearse and perform during the conference. An on-site interview for ensemble placement is required during Sunday Check-In.
PAM Cert IV.1
Vocal Skills for Choral Singers
This class will explore various skills required for healthy choral singing, such as posture and breath, resonance, musical phrasing, preparing a score, and other topics for resonant singing.
PAM Cert IV.1
The Wonder of Worship for All Ages and Church Sizes
Kathy Dawson
We will explore what worship can be in churches of all sizes, especially small congregrations, when it takes the gifts of all ages and abilities seriously. Our aim is to hear latest research and become involved with partner churches in the Wonder of Worship grant.
PAM Cert I.1
Worship Reflections
Worship Planning Team
Worship Reflections gives conferees a behind-the-scenes look at how our worship services are planned and implemented so conferees can take ideas “back home.” A moderator leads discussion and fields questions for our preacher, liturgist, liturgical artist, and musicians.
CEU , PAM Cert I.1
Senior High Classes
African Drumming
Daniel Otu
No experience necessary. Discover the basics and fun of playing the West African djembe. Learn proper hand technique and timing while practicing traditional djembe rhythms and sharing love through drums.
IG
Art Workshop: Oil Pastel, Shapes and Colors
The Artist-in-Residence will lead a class to explore themes of being Clothed in Love, using oil pastels to create simple shapes and symbols that say to the students, THIS is what being clothed in love means to me.
IG
Awakening Joy & Soul at the Console*
Tom Trenney
Join in an empowering, encouraging organ seminar to explore new possibilities in improvisation, repertoire, and service playing to deepen the joy and soul of our spirits and our ministry. This class meets four times a week, Monday through Thursday.
IG
*This class meets four times a week, Monday through Thursday.
Choir (Senior High)
Brian Tanaka - Collaborative Pianist
Senior High for completed 9th through 12th grades.
Dance as Spiritual Practice
Julie Hoplamazian
Utilizing the dancing body as an instrument of connection to the Divine, this class will introduce a framework for ballet as a spiritual practice and theological language.
IG
Fun and Games
Montreat Summer Staff
Enjoy games and other activities in the outdoor beauty of Montreat.
Handbells - Beginning Handchimes*, Beginning Handbells,
Intermediate*, and Advanced*
Brenda Austin and Martha Matthews
Beginning Handchimes: Using handchimes, learn to read music in preparation for ringing handbells (Music Level 1).
IG
Beginning Handbells: Handbell techniques for those who can already read music but are new to ringing with limited handbell experience (Music Levels 1, 2).
IG
Intermediate: For those who have rung in bell choirs before and feel moderately proficient in reading music and using most handbell techniques (Music Levels 2+, 3+).
IG
Advanced: For those who ring regularly and feel confident in all handbell techniques and upper-level performance (Music Levels 3+, 4+).
IG
*The 1:30 pm Advanced Handbells, 3:30 pm Intermediate Handbells, and 4:30 pm Beginning Handchimes will meet four times each week, Monday through Thursday.
Instrumental Ensembles
Max Gambrell - Intern
These ensembles provide opportunities for all instrumentalists to rehearse and perform during the conference. An on-site interview for ensemble placement is required during Sunday Check-In.
IG
Organ Seminar
John Alexander
This seminar will explore a variety of topics related to serving as a church organist, including service playing, repertoire for different occasions, and choral accompaniment.
IG
Senior High Chamber Choir
Brian Tanaka - Collaborative Pianist
This auditioned ensemble rehearses twice daily, Monday through Thursday, and sings in worship and the evening Chamber Concert. Auditions take place during Sunday Check-In. Those selected must purchase a music packet from the on-site store at the first rehearsal. If you are 18–20 years of age, you are invited to audition for the Senior High Chamber Choir OR the Adult Chamber Choir, but not both.
Small Groups (Senior High)
Marcus Hong
Small Groups are a daily time for laughter, connection, and conversation as you get to know yourself, your faith, and your siblings in God. Small Groups are required for Senior Highs.
Songwriting and Poetry in Song
David LaMotte
In a conference populated with lots and lots of highly skilled musicians, we will focus mostly, but not entirely, on lyrics. All levels of experience welcome.
IG
String Chamber Ensembles
Max Gambrell - Intern
These ensembles provide opportunities for string instrumentalists to rehearse and perform during the conference. An on-site interview for ensemble placement is required during Sunday Check-In.
IG
Middler Classes
African Drumming
Daniel Otu
No experience necessary. Discover the basics and fun of playing the West African djembe. Learn proper hand technique and timing while practicing traditional djembe rhythms and sharing love through drums.
IG
Awakening Joy & Soul at the Console*
Tom Trenney
Join in an empowering, encouraging organ seminar to explore new possibilities in improvisation, repertoire, and service playing to deepen the joy and soul of our spirits and our ministry. This class meets four times a week, Monday through Thursday.
IG
*This class meets four times a week, Monday through Thursday.
Choir (Middler)
Brent Shaw - Collaborative Pianist
Middler for completed 6th through 8th grades
Dance as Spiritual Practice
Julie Hoplamazian
Utilizing the dancing body as an instrument of connection to the Divine, this class will introduce a framework for ballet as a spiritual practice.
IG
Fun and Games
Montreat Summer Staff
Enjoy games and other activities in the outdoor beauty of Montreat.
Handbells - Beginning Handchimes*, Beginning Handbells, Intermediate*
Brenda Austin and Martha Matthews
Beginning Handchimes: Using handchimes, learn to read music in preparation for ringing handbells (Music Level 1).
IG
Beginning Handbells: Handbell techniques for those who can already read music but are new to ringing with limited handbell experience (Music Levels 1, 2).
IG
Intermediate: For those who have rung in bell choirs before and feel moderately proficient in reading music and using most handbell techniques (Music Levels 2+, 3+).
IG
*The 2:30 pm Middler Handbells and 4:30pm Beginning Handchimes will meet four times each week, Monday through Thursday.
Instrumental Ensembles
Max Gambrell - Intern
These ensembles provide opportunities for instrumentalists to rehearse.
IG
Middler Art
God was the first artist! We will be drawing, painting, sculpting, and printmaking to use our talents to glorify God.
Organ Seminar
John Alexander
This seminar will explore a variety of topics related to serving as a church organist, including service playing, repertoire for different occasions, and choral accompaniment.
IG
Small Groups (Middler)
Marcus Hong
Small Groups are a daily time for laughter, connection, and conversation as you get to know yourself, your faith, and your siblings in God. Small Groups are required for Middlers.
Children's Classes
African Drumming
Daniel Otu
No experience necessary. Discover the basics and fun of playing the West African djembe. Learn proper hand technique and timing while practicing traditional djembe rhythms and sharing love through drums.
IG
Children's Art
God was the first artist! We will be drawing, painting, sculpting, and printmaking to use our talents to glorify God.
Children's Bible
Kathy Dawson
Children will experience an active exploration of following Jesus with compassion, kindness, humility, patience, and love. Expect to make friends and do many hands-on activities.
Children's Handchimes
Melissa McNair-King
Children will explore the basics of ringing handchimes. Learning music by rote will be taught.
Choir (Children's)
Brent Shaw - Collaborative Pianist
For children who have completed 3rd through 5th grade.
Dance as Spiritual Practice
Julie Hoplamazian
Utilizing the dancing body as an instrument of connection to the Divine, this class will introduce a framework for ballet as a spiritual practice and theological language.
IG
Fun and Games
Montreat Summer Staff
Enjoy games and other activities in the outdoor beauty of Montreat.
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Interest Sessions (Adults)
Jazz Vespers: Worship and Education
Weeks 1 & 2
Monday at 10 am and 4:30 pm
An in-depth look at what it takes to build a successful jazz worship service, including thematic ideas, presentation best practices, and music selection tips.
PAM Cert I.1
This Book Stirred My Soul!
Week 1
Monday at 10 am and 4:30 pm
Be part of a fast-paced, highly interactive workshop! Bring a favorite book that inspired you or your ministry. Share how it impacted you and then be willing to give it away! We will each leave with a different book and inspiration for the days to come. A list of all books will be provided.
Guest Musicians: Ensure Success!
Weeks 1 & 2
Monday at 4:30 pm
Logistics of the hiring of guest instrumentalists, preparation of parts, selection of literature, rehearsal techniques, instrument substitutions, percussion and string considerations, physical placements.
PAM Cert II.1
Contemporary Christian Music Resources
Weeks 1 & 2
Tuesday at 10 am and 4:30 pm
Contemporary Christian music resources, tips, and tricks.
PAM Cert I.1
Practical Handbell Resources
Weeks 1 & 2
Tuesday at 10 am and 4:30 pm
Practical resources for starting a bell choir and learning some hands-on techniques for ways to use bells in worship.
PAM Cert IV.2
Children's Books as Fun Choral Warm-ups
Weeks 1 & 2
Wednesday at 10 am and 4:30 pm
We will demonstrate the use of children’s storybooks as fun and interactive choral warm-ups. We will highlight books that can be used for vocal exploration, articulation, breath control, and phrasing, all while your kids just think they are having a great story time to start rehearsal!
PAM Cert IV.2
A New Confession? Let's Talk
Weeks 1 & 2
Wednesday at 10 am and 4:30 pm (Week 1)
Monday at 10 am and 4:30 pm (Week 2)
A chance to consider the PC(USA) General Assembly Special Committee's mandate to write a new confession.
Converting Big Worship Services to the Small Church
Weeks 1 & 2
Thursday at 10 am and 4:30 pm
Practical ways to incorporate conference worship services into small worshiping congregations.
PAM Cert I.1
Not Only In February!
Week 1
Thursday at 10 am and 4:30 pm
This session will provide a brief survey of music from the African American worship experience against the backdrop of the liturgical calendar. In this engaging lecture-discussion, we'll explore repertoire for solo singers, choirs (both anthems and extended works), hymnody, and organ repertoire. We'll also discuss interpretation and basic performance practices for Negro spirituals and gospel music.
PAM Cert I.1
Sonrise Saturday: Worship for Children
Week 2
Wednesday at 10 am and 4:30 pm
Learn how what began as reimagined VBS grew to become a unique worshiping community.
Music in Scripture: Not Just the Psalms
Week 2
Thursday at 10 am and 4:30 pm
This session introduces participants to a number of Scriptures in which either music plays a significant part or the passage was meant for musical use. Participants will reflect on the ways music has been integral to the life of the people of God across many centuries.
PAM Cert I.1