Music plays a powerful role in expressing faith, drawing people to the Church and leading worshippers into a more profound experience of God.  See the listing of events sponsored by the Music Commission below.

The diocesan Music Commission co-chaired by This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it and This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it seeks to

• Nurture people in singing the praises of God;

Lois Carter     St. John's Episcopal Church, Wilson

Many hymns lend themselves to the season of Lent, but one that seems to be sung by all Christian denominations, especially at this time in the church year is "just as I Am." It is found in our Hymnal 1984 at #693.

The text was written by Charlotte Elliott, who was a gifted writer of poetry. Many of her poems were humorous and entertaining, but due to circumstances beyond her control she became an invalid. This caused her to look at life quite differently.

Lenten Retreat for Musicians
Sabbath Wisdom: A Musicians Retreat

Friday, February 29-Sunday, March 2, 2008
Emmaus Retreat House, Ellicottville, NY

In returning and rest you shall be saved: in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.
Isaiah 30:15

All church music makers, whether paid or volunteer (especially those who make a joyful noise from their place in the pew), are cordially invited to retreat with us.

In her book Meditations for Choir Members, the Rev. Nancy Roth explores the importance of musical rests and through this concept gives us a much needed image for the gifts of rest and Sabbath in our lives. She beckons us to respond to the world’s composer who invites us to keep the Sabbath as a time to call a halt to ceaseless activity in order to rest and be restored. This retreat invites you to live the Sabbath.

Two outstanding chefs who will accompany us on the retreat will provide all of the meals. There will be ample time for rest and relaxation, worship, singing, fellowship, laughter and honoring Sabbath. The cost will be $110 per person. Those so inclined may extend their retreat for an additional $15 per person per night with meals on your own. The deadline for applications is February 15.

For more information or an application, contact Good Shepherd at 716.833.1151 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Ecumenical Children's Choir Festival

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Kenmore Presbyterian Church, Kenmore

A festival of music for children's choirs led by Diane Green, co-Sub Dean of the Buffalo Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. All age children and youth choir are invited. Registration fee: $10. For more information contact Diane Green at 716-731-2840. 

Introduction to Handbells

Time & Date TBA

A hands-on workshop led by members of the Royalton Ringers demonstrating various ringing techniques from the basic to more advanced. all ages and abilities welcome.  Hosted by Church of the Advent, Kenmore. Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .