My interest in world music began in the late 1980s when outside accrediting agencies stressed the need for MNU students to be exposed to non-Western music. This eventually led to my completion of an M.A. in ethnomusicology. As a result, I have had several opportunities to travel to other countries and experience indigenous music first hand.
Even as a child, however, I remember being fascinated with the stories of missionaries from faraway lands. Later, as I became more focused on music I found it puzzling, and somewhat disturbing, that all of the reports I heard regarding music on the mission field were of the converts singing our (Western) music in their spoken language. Although I had not yet studied ethnomusicology at this point, it seemed to me that those converts in other lands should also use their own musical language.
Because of this, whenever I have had an opportunity to experience other cultures I have sought out indigenous church music and encouraged students to compose their own songs in their own language and musical style.
By clicking on the images below you will learn more about these experiences.
