So I was recently given an assignment in my Master’s program at St. Stephen’s University to write a response to any video on the TED.com website that interests me and reflect on it and how it relates to today’s spiritual climate. I must say that I was overwhelmed by all of the amazing information on the TED website. I’ve viewed quite a few of the videos and have been enriched by each one. I settled on a video entitled “David Holt: The Stories and Songs of Appalachia.” The subject matter of American Roots music draws me in like the smell of my Grandma’s famous lima beans and rice. I just can’t resist those old melodies that seem to speak to me from my ancestors and motivate me to connect with others in melody, rhythm, and lyric. Holt’s blending of storytelling and roots music in his presentation gives me ideas on how to incorporate this art form into the modern worship setting. All of the elements Holt uses are part of the way we do worship. We connect to the great Narrative which is the story of God and man through music and ancient traditions. I’m curious if we, as worship leaders, can tell the story in way that Holt tells his story? Using ancient, modern, and even futuristic technology to connect with others in a very simple way he tells his story and brings it to life for those in his audience. We must always keep “the story” central to what it is we’re doing. Let all the other things enhance and nuance not overpower and muddle. Much like the way my Grandma would ad just the right amount of butter and salt and pepper to her famous lima beans and rice.
To See David Holt: The Stories and Song of Appalachia follow this link:
http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/david_holt_plays_mountain_music.html
