Description: This session focuses on current music ministry practices outside of the Anglo-American mainstream in the United States. It discusses the experience of Primera Iglesia Bautista Mexicana de San Antonio, a multicultural, bilingual (Spanish and English), double-minority (most members are Mexican-American and Baptist) congregation in Texas. Issues of cultural, ethnic, and religious identity, discrimination, assimilation, and transnationality are considered as well as the crucial role of music in supporting the church’s cultural and linguistic priorities. In addition, the presenter argues that the effectiveness of music ministers is directly related to their level of comfort with, affinity for, and commitment to the particular identity of the church they serve, rather than to choice of repertoire, musical style, or program. The session provides information on the role of music in creating a safe haven in which this vulnerable community may thrive.
Location: McCrary Music Building, Baylor University – Waco, Texas