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
Monday
All choirs rehearse twice daily to prepare for singing in worship and the Friday concert.
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.
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
Handbells
Handbell participants must purchase a music packet from the on-site store before the first rehearsal.
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1, IG
CEU, PAM Cert IV.1
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
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 experimented with in 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
Ukulele during Worship
This fun and accessible instrument has been part of worship always related to kids. Learning how to play it will open opportunities to be used in many ministries.
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, liturgical artist, and 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.”
Choir (Senior High)
Brian Tanaka - 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.
Fun and Games
Montreat Summer Staff
Enjoy games and other activities in the outdoor beauty of Montreat.
Guitar as Leading Instrument
Learn how to incorporate the guitar in worship, arrange traditional hymns for the guitar, and choose repertoire for worship.
Handbells
Handbell participants must purchase a music packet from the on-site store before the first rehearsal.
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.
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.
Senior High Chamber Choir
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.
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.
Ukulele during Worship
This fun and accessible instrument has been part of worship always related to kids. Learning how to play it will open opportunities to be used in many ministries.
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.
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.
Handbells
Handbell participants must purchase a music packet from the on-site store before the first rehearsal.
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.
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.
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.
Ukulele during Worship
This fun and accessible instrument has been part of worship always related to kids. Learning how to play it will open opportunities to be used in many ministries.
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 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 Chimes
Participants will learn all the basics for playing chimes in a fun and loving way. Rhythm patterns and stories including chimes will be explored, as well as learning a piece of music.
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.
Ukulele during Worship
This fun and accessible instrument has been part of worship always related to kids. Learning how to play it will open opportunities to be used in many ministries.
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