MONTREAT CONFERENCE CENTER
MONTREAT, NORTH CAROLINA
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2026 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.
*All classes will be offered daily unless otherwise noted.
Adult Bible: "Love Is a Bustling Highway"
CeCe MacDonald wrote the words of this class title in a letter from prison. Using stories of folks like MacDonald and Sylvia Rivera, we will dig deeper into Scripture and find LGBTQIA2S+ witnesses.
CEU, PAM Cert I.3
Adult Chamber Choir*
Eric Wall - 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
*This class meets Monday-Thursday
Art Workshop: What Can Paint Say?
The Artist-in-Residence will help participants discover different ways to play with paint and work toward creating art that “says something.”
CEU, PAM Cert I.1, IG
Black Women Composers' Faith Songs
This seminar explores sacred repertoire by Black women accessible to music ministries, increasing awareness of advocacy items surrounding their vocal music output.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1
BOOM Share!
Being able to listen deeply to the world around us doesn’t happen by accident, it’s a skill that is practiced! Join us for the ultimate intergenerational drum share.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
Choir (Adult)
Eric Wall - Collaborative Pianist
All choirs rehearse twice daily to prepare for singing in worship and the Friday concert.
PAM Cert IV.1
Choral Reading Sessions
Beckenhorst Press
John McClain - Director
Monday (week 1 & 2)
A reading session with free perusal copies of new music - features works by Dan Forrest, Craig Courtney, Marianne Forman, and Molly Ijames.
Choristers Guild
Katie Houts - Director
Tuesday (week 1), Thursday (week 2)
Participants will read through new anthems for 2026, arranged for children to adults, unison to SATB.
MorningStar Publishers
Eric Nelson - Director
Featuring new releases with a variety of voicings, the session will include new publications in the PAM series.
St. James Music Press
Kevin Simons - Director
Thursday (week 1), Tuesday (week 2)
Choral reading session for small church choirs.
Faith in Every Phase
Explore the spiritual and emotional phases of youth to better support their faith journey. Reflect on how each phase shapes identity, belonging, and wonder - and how adults can walk with them.
Give Big, Live Bold!
Erin Skinner & Dana Waters, week 1
Stefanie Marsden, week 2
This interactive workshop will offer both spiritual grounding and practical tools for individuals, congregations, and ministries seeking to cultivate gratitude and generosity. Participants will leave with actionable practices they can apply personally and share with others to deepen faith, enrich community, and inspire action.
Guitar as Leading Instrument
Learn how to incorporate the guitar in worship, arrange traditional hymns for the guitar, and choose repertoire for worship.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
Handbell Reading Session
Tuesday at 6:30 pm: Ring through selections chosen by both handbell clinicians.
Handbell seminar*
Seminars will include Ringing Techniques, Rehearsal Techniques, Creative Use of Bells in Worship, and Conducting Handbells.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1
*This class meets Monday-Thursday.
Handbells
Handbell participants must purchase a music packet from the on-site store before the first rehearsal.
Beginning Handchimes*: Using handchimes, learn to read music in preparation for ringing handbells (Music Level 1).
CEU, 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).
CEU, 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+).
CEU, 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+).
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
Advanced (auditioned)*: For experienced and proficient ringers (Music Levels 4, 5). Auditions held on site during Sunday Check-In hours.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1
*This class meets Monday-Thursday. NOTE: The 10 am Intermediate Handbells is a five day class, but the 3:30 pm class is only four days.
Instrumental Ensembles
These ensembles provide opportunities for instrumentalists to rehearse and perform during the conference. An on-site interview for ensemble placement is required during Sunday Check-In.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
Intergenerational storytelling
We are natural storytellers, we do it every day! Using multiple intelligences, we will begin learning a biblical story by heart. Participants will leave with resources and a story partially learned.
CEU, PAM Cert I.1, IG
Liberating Sanctuary
This class explores how we can scripturally and spiritually transform our worship and congregations to enact justice and liberation in ways that engage young folks and the PC(USA) Matthew 25 movement.
CEU, PAM Cert I.1
Liturgy Seminar: Crafting Cohesive Worship
The preached word is at the center of most worship, but liturgy and music are acts of proclamation too. Explore strategies for weaving liturgical elements together to cohesively proclaim the Word.
CEU, PAM Cert I.1
Movement as a Practice for Worship
Participants will be invited into warm-up exercises, creating movements inspired by both music and Scripture, and then explorations of how movements come together in the context of worship.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
Painting with the Pipe Organ
This series explores musical leadership through innovative and colorful use of the pipe organ, fresh approaches to harmony and rhythm, and other techniques to inspire the congregation’s joyful song.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
Preaching the Synoptic Gospels
Preaching key concepts in Mark, Matthew, and Luke: the gospel story, apocalyptic, parables, miracle stories, the passion narratives.
Professional Development: EXPAND Ministry CONNECT Community
We will talk about expanding music ministry and connecting to the community. Topics include launching new initiatives, collaboration, capital campaigns, conflict, and professional instrumentalists.
CEU, PAM Cert II.1
Routley Lecture: Hymns as Living Witnesses
From clapping trees to freedom marches, from well-known to lesser-sung voices, we will honor how hymns have served as living witnesses, shaping ourselves and our world.
CEU, PAM Cert I.1
Small but Sacred
A guided, support-style workshop to wrestle with big questions: finances, mission, education, expectations. We will explore practical, faithful approaches to small-church ministry, including an alternative church life structure that has been tried by congregations of Genesee Valley Presbytery.
CEU, PAM Cert I.1
Small Choirs? No Problem!
Leading smaller (or fluctuating) children’s choirs requires thoughtful, creative strategies. Learn how to plan effective rehearsals, choose great repertoire, and lead worship with a choir of 25 or 2.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1
Spirited Hymnody!*
Enliven congregational singing with creative hymn playing beyond the textbook. Ignite energy and vitality in singing with text-focused approaches, strong harmonic support, and dynamic articulation.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
*This class meets Monday-Thursday
Ukulele during Worship
This fun and accessible instrument has been part of worship related to children. Learning how to play it will open opportunities for use in many ministries. Participants must provide their own ukulele.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
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, Artist-in-Residence, and Co-Service Musicians.
CEU, PAM Cert I.1
Senior High Classes
Art Workshop: What Can Paint Say?
The Artist-in-Residence will help participants discover different ways to play with paint and work toward creating art that “says something.”
IG
Choir (Senior High)
Brian Tanaka, CCM - Collaborative Pianist
All choirs rehearse twice daily to prepare for singing in worship and the Friday concert. Senior High is for completed 9th through 12th grades.
Guitar as Leading Instrument
Learn how to incorporate the guitar in worship, arrange traditional hymns for the guitar, and choose repertoire for worship.
IG
Handbells
Handbell participants must purchase a music packet from the on-site store before the first rehearsal.
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
*This class meets Monday-Thursday. NOTE: The 10 am Intermediate Handbells is a five day class, but the 3:30 pm class is only four days.
Instrumental Ensembles
These ensembles provide opportunities for instrumentalists to rehearse and perform during the conference. An on-site interview for ensemble placement is required during Sunday Check-In.
IG
Movement as a Practice for Worship
Participants will be invited into warm-up exercises, creating movements inspired by both music and Scripture, and then explorations of how movements come together in the context of worship.
IG
Painting with the Pipe Organ
This series explores musical leadership through innovative and colorful use of the pipe organ, fresh approaches to harmony and rhythm, and other techniques to inspire the congregation’s joyful song.
IG
Senior High Chamber Choir
Brian Tanaka, CCM - 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 prior to 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.
Spirited Hymnody!*
Enliven congregational singing with creative hymn playing beyond the textbook. Ignite energy and vitality in singing with text-focused approaches, strong harmonic support, and dynamic articulation.
IG
*This class meets Monday-Thursday
Ukulele during Worship
This fun and accessible instrument has been part of worship related to children. Learning how to play it will open opportunities for use in many ministries. Participants must provide their own ukulele.
IG
Youth Small Groups
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 High and Middler participants.
Middler Classes
BOOM Share!
Being able to listen deeply to the world around us doesn’t happen by accident, it’s a skill that is practiced! Join us for the ultimate intergenerational drum share.
IG
Choir (Middler)
Jennifer Weier (week 1) & Vicki Fey (week 2) - Collaborative Pianist
All choirs rehearse twice daily to prepare for singing in worship and the Friday concert. Middler is for completed 6th through 8th grades.
Fun and Games
Montreat Summer Staff
Enjoy games and other activities in the outdoor beauty of Montreat.
God through the Lens
Explore how photography helps us see God in nature and everyday wonder. Capture beauty, spark imagination, and discover the sacred all around you!
Guitar as Leading Instrument
Learn how to incorporate the guitar in worship, arrange traditional hymns for the guitar, and choose repertoire for worship.
IG
Handbells
Handbell participants must purchase a music packet from the on-site store before the first rehearsal.
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
*This class meets Monday-Thursday.
Instrumental Ensembles
These ensembles provide opportunities for instrumentalists to rehearse and perform during the conference. An on-site interview for ensemble placement is required during Sunday Check-In.
Movement as a Practice for Worship
Participants will be invited into warm-up exercises, creating movements inspired by both music and Scripture, and then explorations of how movements come together in the context of worship.
IG
Painting with the Pipe Organ
This series explores musical leadership through innovative and colorful use of the pipe organ, fresh approaches to harmony and rhythm, and other techniques to inspire the congregation’s joyful song.
IG
Spirited Hymnody!*
Enliven congregational singing with creative hymn playing beyond the textbook. Ignite energy and vitality in singing with text-focused approaches, strong harmonic support, and dynamic articulation.
IG
*This class meets Monday-Thursday
Ukulele during Worship
This fun and accessible instrument has been part of worship related to children. Learning how to play it will open opportunities for use in many ministries. Participants must provide their own ukulele.
IG
Youth Small Groups
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 High and Middler participants.
Children's Classes
Children's Bible
Children will explore several Bible stories using multiple intelligences, laughter, and activities. We will engage with one another and the Scripture, as we discover more about our sacred shared story.
Children's Music: Boom Boom! Let's Drum!
Rhythm is an essential part of being human! In this class, we use drums to help us learn: how rhythm can connect us, improve communication skills, help us to recognize patterns . . . oh, and have fun!
Choir (Children)
Jennifer Weier (week 1) & Vicki Fey (week 2) - Collaborative Pianist
All choirs rehearse twice daily to prepare for singing in worship and the Friday concert. Children is for completed 3rd through 5th grades.
Fun and Games
Montreat Summer Staff
Enjoy games and other activities in the outdoor beauty of Montreat.
God through the Lens
Explore how photography helps us see God in nature and everyday wonder. Capture beauty, spark imagination, and discover the sacred all around you!
Movement as a Practice for Worship
Participants will be invited into warm-up exercises, creating movements inspired by both music and Scripture, and then explorations of how movements come together in the context of worship.
IG
Ukulele during Worship
This fun and accessible instrument has been part of worship related to children. Learning how to play it will open opportunities for use in many ministries. Participants must provide their own ukulele.
IG
Interest Sessions (Adults)
Beloved Community
Week 1
Monday at 10 am
This workshop is not about urban design alone—it is about the grace of God revealed in unexpected places, the transformation that happens when communities dare to dream together, and the ways faith can reimagine what the world calls broken.
Come Sunday: Duke Ellington in Worship
Week 1
Monday at 4:30 pm
Explore Duke Ellington’s sacred choral works and their remarkable potential for enriching modern Presbyterian worship. The session will examine how Ellington’s music can be meaningfully integrated into services, offering accessible yet sophisticated repertoire for both choirs and congregations.
PAM Cert I.1
The Balancing Act of Children's Choir
Week 1
Tuesday at 10 am
From learning anthems, to teaching music literacy, to teaching worship leadership and worship engagement, to having fun, the demands on a church children’s choir program are high. In this session we’ll explore practical ideas for balancing the many facets of a vibrant children’s choir program.
PAM Cert IV.1
Guiding the Male Changing Voice
Week 1
Tuesday at 4:30 pm
Explore ways to understand the male changing voice and ways to guide singers as they find their tenor and bass voices in children's and youth church choirs. The session includes helping senior-adult tenors and basses.
PAM Cert IV.1
Choir, Concerts, Chaos: Systems to Scale
Week 1
Wednesday at 10 am
How can you maximize time and impact? This session will cover several tools including Google, Canva, Asana, and Wix. We will explore a variety of ideas and systems related to worship planning, marketing, ensemble logistics, and even Montreat trips. Come prepared to interact and share your ideas!
PAM Cert I.1
Improvising & Reharmonizing in Worship
Week 1
Wednesday at 4:30 pm
Explore creative ways to extend, adapt, and refresh music during worship through improvisation and reharmonization. Learn practical tools to support moments like Communion, offering, or familiar hymn singing with musical sensitivity and artistry.
PAM Cert I.1
There is More Than C&E - That Means Us, Too
Week 1
Thursday at 10 am
We work so hard to make Christmas and Easter perfect; we feel the pressure and hope the grandeur of those services brings growth and retention. What if our most meaningful growth comes from the unexpected Sundays? Let’s talk about rethinking our approach to aim for engaging worship all year long.
PAM Cert I.1
Exploring Glory to God
Week 1
Thursday at 4:30 pm
Do you know how the hymnal Glory to God is organized? The philosophies behind its development? How to use the carious indexes? Attend this session to learn all this and more about everything the hymnal has to offer in fostering congregational singing!
PAM Cert I.1
Faith at Home: Practicing Sabbath Together
Week 1, Friday at 10 am
Week 2, Monday at 10 am
Looking for ways to nurture faith at home or in your community? Join our interactive workshop on Sabbath practices like hospitality, prayer, and storytelling. Leave with free tools, creative ideas, and inspiration to grow faith through everyday moments—around your table or in your congregation.
PAM Cert I.1
Many and Great: Hymnody & Allyship
Week 2
Monday at 4:30 pm
Using examples of Native hymnody, we will consider the contributions of Indigenous siblings to the church’s witness and explore ways in which those who are non-Native can become more intentional allies, including by developing genuinely meaningful land acknowledgments.
PAM Cert I.1
Creating Alternative Worship Services
Week 2
Tuesday at 10 am
We'll explore three alternative worship services: a Maundy Thursday service around tables, an interactive child-led service, and a monthly service centered around storytelling and Communion. Participants at the session will gain creative ideas to take back to their home congregations.
PAM Cert I.1
Song Charts 101
Week 2
Tuesday at 4:30 pm
Have you ever been thrown a pile of song charts without music notation and just didn’t know how to work with them? This session will show just how useful a good song chart can be!
PAM Cert I.1
And a Child Shall Lead
Week 2
Wednesday at 10 am
Learn practical and interactive ways to engage children in worship and music leadership.
PAM Cert I.1
Take the Lead: Keep Meetings on Track
Week 2
Wednesday at 4:30 pm
Transform meetings into growth-focused spaces by exploring leadership (even when not in charge), active listening, and agenda setting. Learn to navigate power dynamics, foster collaboration, and create equitable, faith-filled environments that enhance participation and shared ministry.
PAM Cert II.1
It Takes a Spark: Music in a New Space
Week 2
Thursday at 10 am
A fire displaced our congregation from their normal worship space. We’ll discuss lessons learned and practical ways to get creativity flowing again after displacement or crisis.
PAM Cert II.1
Planning Music Like a Worshiper
Week 2
Thursday at 4:30 pm
Geared toward lay music leaders, this session will equip you with a tool kit for planning worship music from a perspective that invites full engagement from worshipers, regardless of your worship style. Developing youth and volunteer musicians will find this session especially useful.
PAM Cert I.1
Handbell Sight Reading and Score Study
Week 2
Friday at 10 am
This fun handbell class will pursue score study principles that empower ringers to improve their sight-reading. Seven concepts will be applied to the reading of newly published music as the concepts are taught. These proven techniques will help reduce stress and improve ringers’ overall musicality.
PAM Cert IV.1