Course Information
Join C. Michael Hawn, FHS, for an eight-session exploration that challenges the simplistic
“traditional versus contemporary” divide in congregational music. This engaging online course
will meet Wednesdays and Fridays from 3:00 to 5:00 pm ET, beginning January 28 and
concluding February 20.
This course is designed for pastors, musicians, and church leaders who may not hold formal degrees in church music or theology, or who wish to deepen their understanding of congregational song in the 21st century.
More Details & Required Materials
Overview Rather than limiting ourselves to false dichotomies, participants will explore a “streams” model that examines seven distinct traditions that flow through and shape our worship. Each participant will identify the primary streams in their own congregation and develop practical strategies for broadening their community’s sung faith.
Registration Information
Hymn Society members: $175
Non-members: $225
Pastor-musician teams from the same congregation: $275
Instructor
The primary instructor will be C. Michael Hawn, FHS.
Michael Hawn is the University Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Church Music, Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas. He is the author of several books related to congregational songs, the USA Editor for the Canterbury Dictionary of Hymnology, and editor of the United Methodist Discipleship Resources site, History of Hymns.
Course Dates
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Friday, January 30, 2026
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Friday, February 6, 2026
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Friday, February 13, 2026
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Friday, February 20, 2026