Can We Teach Kids How to Play Contemporary Worship Music? -- With Dr. Laura Benjamins

In this third episode of our Kids in the Mix series, Dr. Laura Benjamins (Assistant Professor of Music, Redeemer University) and our host, Dr. Jeremy Perigo, explore the intricate relationship between worship and music education. At the core of the discussion are the possibilities and challenges of training children to play contemporary worship music.

This episode draws on numerous scholarly articles by Benjamins and focuses on topics such as the transition from classical to contemporary worship, the role of communities in musical formation, and the possibility of mentorships in developing worship musicians. They discuss the significance of including children in worship and the challenges of balancing musical excellence with participation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of returning to the basics of worship and fostering a culture of musical development for all ages within local churches.

This season is produced by the Dordt Children's Worship Initiative.