02/08/08
Over the years, both novice and professional Baker musicians have enriched the Thursday morning services in chapel by sharing their musical talents.
Minister to the University Ira DeSpain said students have been performing in the Clarice L. Osborne Memorial Chapel for as long as he has been at Baker.
“Music is a good communicator, and I think the people that come to chapel appreciate seeing the efforts of their peers,” DeSpain said.
Since these performances are not limited to trained musicians, many students simply volunteer a few times each semester to play for the service. DeSpain said they also work with Associate Professor of Music Susan Buehler who encourages her voice students to perform.
“Every time a music student can perform in front of an audience, they can gain experience in preparing and delivering a piece,” DeSpain said.
While this type of experience is valuable for anyone who wants to perform or teach music as a career, some students perform for more personal reasons, DeSpain said.
“I think, for some people, performing music speaks to their spiritual side, and they can feel a spiritual presence,” he said.
This is the case for senior Jessica Lenhart, who has performed vocally as well as with her flute in past services. Lenhart said she feels a spiritual connection when she sings.
“The music gives time for people to reflect, and it can be an aid in worshiping God,” she said.
Even though she is a music student, Lenhart said she does not receive any credit for performing in chapel. She said the pieces she chooses to sing do not take long to prepare.
“I never get nervous while singing in church because I am doing it for the right reasons, and the people in chapel are non-judgmental,” Lenhart said.
Senior Jared Weseloh performed in front of the congregation last week. He volunteers to sing and play the piano a few times every semester.
Weseloh said that he, too, does not get any credit for his performances. Though he is a member of the choir, he does not take any sort of piano lessons. He takes it upon himself to practice the piano as often as he can.
He said he feels very comfortable while he is performing in chapel.
“I get a lot of joy out of playing the piano and singing,” he said. “I try to pick songs that will make people think.”
Chapel is held at 11 a.m. every Thursday.