Psalm 8 begins and ends with this heartfelt expression of praise to God. Like bookends the psalmist surrounds all of life with purposeful praise. What an example of the appreciation we should have for the privilege of being called by His name. As musicians we have the opportunity to make all of life a hymn of praise to God.
When we moved back to Minnesota two years ago, I was thrilled to learn of a choral ensemble whose purpose and goal is to sing praise to God. I immediately thought of Psalm 8. Deo Cantamus was founded and developed to present music that glorifies God, with a commitment to excellence in performance. Both singers and audience members participate in an experience similar to that of the psalmist. At the concerts I have attended, the words have proclaimed the excellence of His name and the musicianship has surrounded those words with quality.
Recently I became a new member of the board of directors, and I consider it a privilege to be part of this ministry. A background of teaching, conducting, arranging, and composing confirms for me a tremendous appreciation for the accomplishments Deo Cantamus has realized since its inception. New music and classical standards have been combined to fulfill the Psalm 8 vision. As a board member it is exciting to know the vision that Director Al Hawkins and the board have for the future. Deo Cantamus seeks to perform timeless music in the age of the ephemeral. Praise for our eternal God will never be exhausted.
O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!