How is the Elijah Conference different than other music schools?
The primary difference is that this conference will concentrate on
excellence in communication in music ministry, and will teach servant-hood toward the church as opposed to the rudiments of musical instruction. The musical aspect
of your ministry will be refined at this conference but your communication
and performance abilities will be the focal point of the curriculum. Our
goal is to take you to the next level as a communicator and minister,
and to prepare you for full-time service to the Church.
Is there a required experience level to attend?
We want to see attendees who are singing on a regular basis, at least
once a month. This will give you a foundation on which to build
the skills needed to take your ministry to the next level.
Do you have any suggestions on fundraising?
Yes - we have a Sponsorship Letter available for download with which you can take to friends, family and anyone else who may be interested in supporting your ministry. Download here.
What are some of the things Allison will cover?
Allison’s curriculum will include such topics as writing segues
for transitions between songs, proper use of humor in services, blocking
and specific use of props, total use of the stage, ministry vs. entertainment
and why we need both, programming sets of songs for various time slots,
use of scripture to enhance your communication of a specific theological
idea, witnessing to lost audience members, proper attire for church services,
scheduling, use of sound technology, the recording process and other
vital areas of management.
Where will the conference be held?
Pastor Ken Dove, senior pastor at Grace Church of the Nazarene in Nashville TN,
has graciously offered his facilities for the conference. This facility is fully
equipped with state of the art sound technology and lighting and will be a
wonderful place for each performer to display musicianship and be critiqued. Map
Is the
Grace Church of the Nazarene facility handicapped accessible?
Yes. The church is built on one level and has no steps to hinder
wheel chair access. Help will be available to get a wheel chair
on and off of the stage.
Is there a price break for groups?
Yes, for duets, trios, and quartets who already have an established music
ministry. The first member will pay full price with reductions
in price for each additional member. See the registration
policy for further details.
What about scholarships?
We are actively seeking scholarships for deserving artists that might
not have the resources to attend. Another option is to solicit
contributions from your home church, friends or family. We have
prepared a letter for you to download that will help in raising funds
for you to attend. Download
Do you require a deposit with registration, and what if I need
to cancel?
Yes, we ask for at 25% deposit when you register. See the registration
page for information on our full registration policy.
Will my group or I have time to perform to be critiqued?
Sufficient time will be built into the curriculum for each artist (soloist
or group) to perform at least two songs in front of the group. Allison
will then critique in this group setting and give instruction on how
to grow as a communicator and musician.
What format should my tracks be in?
Tracks should be in a digital format, preferably CD. Cassettes
will not be allowed.
I use live instruments. Can I bring them?
Absolutely! We encourage you to bring what ever instruments
you use in your ministry now. You must display your ministry at
its best and most comfortable. A piano will be provided, as well
as direct boxes and/or microphones for other instruments.
What about the sound system?
Grace Church of the Nazarene has state-of-the-art audio, lighting and video systems
that will be available for use. We will provide trained operators
to handle engineering duties.
Is there a dress code?
No, but you should dress comfortably and modestly. Jeans or khakis
are fine, as well as polo shirts or nice T-shirts. Please remember
that this is a church and you are ministers for Christ. Dress in
clothes that are not revealing or sensual.
Will there be breaks throughout the day?
We’ll take regular breaks and will supply coffee, water and snacks
during each session.
Will meals be provided during my stay?
Each of the hotels near
Grace Church of the Nazarene features
a complimentary breakfast. Lunch
will be catered and brought in to the church each day. We’ll
break for 90 minutes for dinner and you’re on your own to pick
from one of the many restaurants within a
two-mile radius of the church. Please
notify us of any dietary needs or restrictions you may have.
What about transportation?
We will provide transportation to and from the Nashville airport and
your hotel, and to and from your hotel to the church. Please
notify us no later than two weeks in advance of the conference of your
travel arrangements.
Will you make my hotel arrangements?
No, we will provide a list of hotels to choose from that are near
Grace Church of the Nazarene, but you will need to reserve your own room. We strongly
recommend you make your reservations early to assure a room near the
church.
Can I take private lessons at the conference?
No,
all of the curriculum will be in a group environment. You will
be asked to perform in front of the entire conference. Your set
will then be critiqued and instruction will be given to the entire audience
so that every attendee will benefit from all the suggestions and training.
|