Faith and Music in Lessons at Downingtown Music Academy

Every once in a while, I hear the question “Do you allow students to sing or play religious music in lessons?” The short answer is yes, absolutely.

 

Over the years, I have worked with students from many different backgrounds, including those who bring their faith into their music. For many, sacred songs are not just music. They are deeply personal expressions of comfort, memory, and hope. I feel honored to help students prepare these pieces when they matter most.

 

One of my students, a pastor who worked in hospice, used our time together to prepare hymns and Christian anthems to share with his patients. For him, music was part of his ministry of care and I was glad to support him in using his gifts to serve others.

 

Another student came to me after the devastating loss of her adult son. Together, we worked on Go Rest High on That Mountain so she could sing it at his memorial. She later told me that singing that song helped her through an impossible moment. Experiences like these remind me that music has the power to heal and hold us up when words alone fall short.

 

I also work with students who sing at their own churches. One of my younger students serves as a cantor, leading her congregation in song. Others attend local Catholic schools such as Bishop Shanahan, Villa Maria, and St Joe's and bring sacred repertoire into their lessons on a regular basis. These are all valuable and meaningful parts of their musical journeys.

 

So let me be clear. I welcome religious music in lessons. Where I do draw a line is in public performances that represent the Academy. Because Downingtown Music Academy is not affiliated with any single faith tradition, I ask students to choose secular music when we perform at community events. That way, everyone feels welcome and the Academy is represented as a place for all families, no matter their background.

 

This balance allows students to explore the music that is most personal to them while still keeping our community performances inclusive.

 

At the end of the day, music is about connection. Sometimes that connection comes through a hymn at church, sometimes through a pop song on the radio, and sometimes through a classical piece at a recital. My goal as a teacher is to support each student’s unique path, honor what matters to them, and help them grow as musicians in a way that feels authentic.

 

If you are looking for music lessons in Downingtown PA where your student will be supported in their unique goals, I would love to welcome you to Downingtown Music Academy.

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