The National Association of Pastoral Musicians is holding its convention July 27-30 in New Orleans. Pray Tell spoke with NPM Executive Director Jennifer Kluge.
NPM “fosters the art of musical liturgy.” How, in a time of massive changes, are you doing that?
Excellent liturgical music is more important than ever, especially in a post-COVID Church. Music and communal participation deepens the meaning of the liturgy. NPM remains committed to fostering the art of musical liturgy and focused on formation, enrichment, and skills development. Our certificate program continues to be robust as a way of demonstrating the gifts of organists, cantors, and pianists.
Any changes in the works?
Moving forward, we’re working to strengthen ties with our 70+ diocesan-based chapters, and build strong chapters across the country. All chapter members will now be part of the national association and are entitled to receive all of the benefits and content not always available at the local level. Additionally, we continue to seek ways to better serve musicians in Spanish-speaking communities and in multicultural settings.
Any organizational developments?
I’d be remiss if I did not highlight our new ministerial and operationally-based Forums and our Regional Representatives, modeled after the episcopal regions who serve as liaisons to members across the country. These leaders also serve on our Council, bringing a wider range of voices to the table and engaging our members more directly in the day-to-day and strategic work of NPM.
What about social issues?
NPM has become more strongly committed to social and racial justice, to preventing abuse, and to supporting survivors and those impacted by injustices.
Some of us remember when the membership was over 9,000. Where is it at now?
We’re under 4,000 these days. As you can imagine, COVID affected our membership tremendously. When churches closed in March 2020, many musicians lost their jobs, were furloughed, or had a reduction of hours and benefits. Memberships previously paid from parish budgets were no longer available. Fortunately, to support those impacted, we were able to extend memberships for several months through scholarships and our new member support fund.
What’s the plan going forward?
The future of NPM means welcoming all pastoral musicians, whether you’re a choir member, ensemble musician, director of music, diocesan musician, clergy, or serve in any other ministerial role. If you love liturgy and you believe it’s enriched by excellent musical praise, NPM welcomes you. We especially want our brothers and sisters in Hispanic and intercultural ministries to be welcomed as a part of NPM.
Tell us about the New Orleans Convention.
We were among the first to transition to a virtual format last year and we are proud to be among the few associations that will be using a hybrid model this year. This hybrid convention experience, with lots of in-person, prerecorded, and live streamed content, is like nothing we have ever done. This delivery style allows us to post ALL content to the platform and grant all attendees access until September 30, basically creating a 2 month event.
It will be safe to gather at the end of July?
We’re carefully watching CDC guidance and local ordinances and will continue to follow whichever are more stringent. NPM is committed to gathering safely.
How is registration?
We’ve at nearly 600 registrants, which exceeds our initial goal of 500. We’re thrilled that on-site registrations continue to track at over 75% with the balance as virtual attendees. Registration remains open right through the convention on July 27-30.
You sound hopeful.
We are so excited to focus on the source and summit of our shared faith, the Eucharist. We welcome old and new friends to join us!
This interview was conducted by email and was edited lightly for clarity.
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