More than one hundred keyboardists from across the United States gathered in Charleston Oct. 23-26 for a National Keyboard Symposium.  Training sessions were held at Charleston Southern University while First Church Charleston hosted other events during the weekend.

Organists, pianists and electric keyboardists came from thirteen different states – including Pennsylvania, Texas and Hawaii – to attend the sessions.  In addition to practical skills workshops, the sessions included spiritual encouragement as well.

Event faculty included Bruce Greer, a concert artist and accomplished accompanist for contemporary artists such as Cynthia Clawson; Dr. Becky Lombard, an associate professor of music at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary; and, Dr. Michael Sharp, also an associate professor of music at the New Orleans Seminary.  Breakout session topics included adapting keyboard music to different styles of worship and skills, playing with orchestras and bands, personal worship and how accompanists can reach others for Christ.

According to Paula Joye, Music & Creative Arts contract worker with the convention, the event was a time of inspiration and fellowship for those involved.  “The Lord really blessed us with faculty committed to helping church accompanists improve their skills and serve faithfully in our Lord's name week to week.  So many conferees expressed that they had been strengthened both musically and spiritually, and were excited about going back home to serve the Lord in their keyboard ministry with renewed energy and deeper commitment.”

Attendee Gloria Wright said she was inspired by a song written by Sharpe specifically for the event.  "Hearing all of the keyboard ministers sing 'Take my Hands' as they dedicated their hands to be used for God’s glory was a high and holy moment for me," she said.

Sponsored by LifeWay Christian Resources, the Keyboard Symposium is offered every two to three years.