Lutheran Summer Music: A Liturgical Legacy Lives On
Valparaiso University has long been a beacon of light and learning, not only for our full-time students but also for the many young musicians who attend the Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) program. For over four decades, Lutheran Summer Music, the nation’s premier faith-based music academy for high school students, has offered a transformative experience for thousands of young musicians. In addition to advanced musical instruction and numerous performance opportunities, LSM students form an intentional community while living together on Lutheran college campuses for four weeks. Since 2017, Valparaiso University has been honored to host this inspiring community.
A Community Like No Other
Participants consistently highlight the sense of community as one of LSM’s most cherished aspects. Those involved in LSM find a common passion for music and faith. Associate Professor of Music Stacy Maugans, D.M., shares, “One reason the community coalesces so quickly each summer is that we begin and end each day in corporate worship and prayer.” This daily practice creates a lasting impact, with many alumni returning year after year, either as participants, faculty, staff, or supporters because of the connections they formed during their summers as students.
The reputation of LSM’s community also draws both students and faculty to the program. LSM’s faculty members come from the nation’s leading universities, conservatories, and performing ensembles. Professor Maugans, who was inspired to join LSM’s faculty by Professor of Music and Music Education Jeffrey Doebler ’87, Ph.D., shares, “Although I had heard about Jeff’s experiences, I was blown away by my first summer of LSM.” She emphasizes the supportive community, transformative musical experience, and the opportunity for students to gain maturity and independence. “Students of all levels and backgrounds are supported both by their peers and the faculty!” she exclaims. This strong sense of community uniquely benefits students’ learning and growth.
Musical and Spiritual Growth
The mission of LSM is not just to cultivate musical skills but also to inspire spiritual growth. Anne Krentz Organ ’82, M.M., a Valpo alumna, seasoned LSM participant, and mentor, emphasizes the unique spiritual atmosphere at LSM: “Faith is one of the three pillars of LSM — music, faith, and community. Faith is integrated into daily life by starting each day by singing together Luther’s Morning Prayer, ending the day with evening prayer, and communing for worship together on Sunday mornings. Celebrating Holy Communion around the high altar in the Chapel of the Resurrection is an experience that transcends the ordinary. It’s a sacred space where music and faith converge.” This integration of faith and music is at the core of the LSM experience, offering young musicians a holistic approach to their development.
Here, students are exposed to a multitude of opportunities to learn more about worship and liturgy in the Lutheran tradition, including elective classes in church music and organ lessons. Students are also encouraged to use their musical gifts in worship as part of the Chapel Choir or the Handbell Ensemble. Some even lead morning or evening prayer as cantors. Whether students come to LSM with a deep knowledge of faith traditions or not, they are encouraged to take part in worship as they are comfortable and share their gifts with this supportive community.
The Impact of Mentorship
Mentorship plays a crucial role at LSM as well, with experienced musicians guiding the next generation so that the values and skills learned at LSM radiate far beyond the summer program, influencing communities and churches across the country. Seth Carlson ’15, a Valpo alum, LSM staff member, music educator, and church musician, reflects on the profound impact of his mentors: “In my own work as a music educator and church musician, I strive to let my actions be examples of how to be a light in the world. I often think about my greatest inspiration, Valpo’s very own Jeffrey Doebler, and how I have learned so much by just following his example and the approaches he takes in his discourse, actions, and compassionate teaching. He has instilled in me a deep sense of purpose and service.” Because of Professor Doebler’s influence during Seth’s college experience, Seth not only began his career in music, but is now a part of the LSM community as the student life director, and continues to work with Professor Doebler closely.
Grounded in a Tradition of Excellence
Valpo has been an ideal host for LSM, not only because of our outstanding musical facilities, but more importantly, our strong commitment to faith and learning grounded in our Lutheran tradition. Our University’s beautiful campus and renowned Chapel of the Resurrection serve as a spiritual and performance hub, inspiring awe and reverence. Seth Carlson reflects on his time at LSM, emphasizing how the Chapel’s ambiance contributed to his musical and spiritual journey: “The Chapel is the focal point, elevating our musical experiences all month long by offering great acoustics, magnificent architecture, and meaningful worship spaces. It is a unique experience that blends spiritual reflection with musical performance.”
Looking to the Future
Lutheran Summer Music, hosted by Valparaiso University, is more than just a summer program — it is a transformative experience where music, community, and faith intersect, where young musicians are nurtured, and where lifelong memories and friendships are forged. The tradition of LSM continues to inspire and transform, reflecting the light of God through music and community. Take part in this rich liturgical tradition and join us for LSM’s Festival Week, July 22-28, 2024! Over 200 church musicians from the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians (ALCM) will join the LSM community to share in concerts and worship services, culminating in an intergenerational performance of J.S. Bach’s St. John Passion. All performances are free and open to the public. Join in person or online via livestream.
