Mission and Philosophy
MISSION STATEMENT: Making a Joyful Noise—101 was conceived and produced with the intention of providing those who lead music in the LDS Church easy ongoing access to the training and skills needed in order to become confident and competent choristers - regardless of their past experience or current level of expertise. This DVD’s demonstrations, information, and advice on directing music and leading hymns are intended to fill in the gaps that currently exist in bringing a high level of practical instruction to everyone who needs it. These efforts are based on a belief that those who assist with music in the Church have a profound responsibility to contribute mightily to the unity and spiritual atmosphere of the meetings, through reverent, energetic, and JOYFUL singing of sacred music.Most people who accept chorister callings generally do so without being given an opportunity to be trained, formally or otherwise. Stake or ward music workshops—with classes on leading music—are few and far between, if they exist at all. We have all watched novice choristers struggle nervously through their first time leading a song in front of the congregation… and maybe even break out in a cold sweat during a particularly difficult hymn! Making a Joyful Noise—101 to the rescue!
The Church has provided a few resources for choristers, including the information in the hymnal. This DVD was never intended to compete with, or replace, any of these resources - but to COMPLIMENT them. Leading music is a very physical activity, much like dancing. How easy is it to learn how to dance from a book or graphic?
Experienced conductor Alison Herron takes you step-by-step through every subject you need to understand in order to become a skilled chorister. She believes that leading music is very difficult to master without being able to physically follow—and imitate—the movements of someone who knows what they are doing. Her experience as a dance instructor comes into play as she demonstrates her tried and true techniques for leading music, in front of a dance studio mirror.
Demonstrations are filmed from the back, so that the viewer can see every arm movement — from both the front and the back — at the same time. You can follow along at home while she leads a small group in singing dozens of hymns with varying beat patterns, including many songs that are considered the most challenging to direct. Every effort has been made to cover all eventualities that might come up when deciding how to lead almost any hymn.
Many supporting subjects are covered in detail as well, with frequent use of graphics, demonstrations of practical applications, and comic vignettes to aid in the learning process. Alison’s years as an instructor, speaker, and entertainer go a long way toward making sure that the viewer stays engaged and enthused.
Use this DVD at home for personal training and education, or in a classroom with any group of people who could benefit from the instruction. It makes a great gift for any ward or stake library, or anyone holding a musical calling of any kind. Newly called missionaries will certainly have opportunities to use and share skills gained from watching Making a Joyful Noise—101. Imagine the possibilities as we all “raise the musical bar” in classes and congregations throughout the Church!