The PSALM Events Committee was formed this spring and consists of Anne Schoepp, chair; Alice Hughes, and Valerie Yova Sheets. Our task is to develop a system that can bring educational opportunities to Orthodox church musicians in all areas of the country. These gatherings will also provide opportunities for local networking, fellowship, singing and worship.

With the understanding that planning so many regional events is a huge undertaking, the Committee's goal is to establish a network of regional coordinators. Holding local workshops should help develop the regional membership, thus building a larger network of participants both in the planning, teaching and learning spheres. Therefore, our first task will be to find a Regional Membership Director for each area of the country, and a Regional Events Coordinator. These jobs could initially be handled by one individual, but would eventually involve two people. We are currently in communication with several people in different areas of the country. In addition, the Regional Events Coordinator would be expected to develop a network of others in the region to assist him or her.

The regional areas at this time are loosely defined as follows: Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, South, Northwest, Central West, and Southwest. Of course, PSALM members would be welcome to attend events in any area of the country, but these regional events will be aimed at orthodox musicians in their area.

The events can follow a variety of formats, either a one-day workshop, or a two-day seminar. There can be one speaker or several. Other types of events could be planned as well, such as occasional director's lunches, concerts, etc.

The second task of the Events Committee will be to compile planning procedures, speaker lists, curriculum guides, flyers, registration forms, and other materials that will simplify the planning process and ensure a successful event. This work is well under way. We will work with the Membership Committee to provide mailing labels.

The ongoing role of the Committee, and especially of the Chair, will be to assist the Regional Events Coordinator in designing the program that will be best suited for the interests and needs of that region, and help connect the REC with the appropriate speakers and instructors.

The specific attributes of a PSALM Event will be that it is created by PSALM Members, and will feature PSALM speakers - individuals who are knowledgeable in the appropriate topics, and are effective speakers. A PSALM Event will also provide opportunities to purchase PSALM publications, and register new members.

Submitted by Anne Schoepp