Assist Our Song combines accessible teaching about the theology and
shape of worship with essential information about the forms of music
used, including congregational hymns, songs, canticles and psalm chant,
and music performed by choirs and musicians. It explores the range of
resources available, how to extend repertoire, blending the old with the
new, changing patterns of church life, and other practical issues. Its
aims are the heightening of the profile of music within the church,
increasing the skills and understanding on the part of musicians and
choirs, assisting leaders of worship and empowering congregations to see
themselves also as ‘ministers of music’↵
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It
offers practical assistance for the ‘delivery’ of music – choosing
music, making the most of choirs and working with musicians. It will be
welcomed by all who lead, provide or curate music in worship, as well as
clergy and ordinands who lack musical expertise or confidence.
Douglas Galbraith is a Church of Scotland minister and
composer. He was Professor of Practical Theology, and Chaplain at the
University of St Andrews and was head of department of Church of
Scotland responsible for worship and music. He is an adviser to the
RSCM’s and was Chair of its Scottish Committee.