University Choir and Orchestra performs at international worship conference

Members of the University Choir and Orchestra perform with Anthony Evans, a Christian worship artist, at the Experience Conference in Florida on Sept. 4.

Riverside, Calif. (Sept. 7, 2018) – Members of the University Choir and Orchestra (UCO) at California Baptist University kicked off their performance schedule for the new academic year at an international worship conference in Florida on Sept. 4.

The 73 students performed for the Experience Conference with Anthony Evans, a Christian worship artist and a consultant for the Worship Arts and Ministry degree at CBU. The event is tailored to worship leaders throughout the world. The students also led worship with John Bolin, a CBU alumnus and minister of worship and arts from Houston’s First Baptist Church, and his band, First|Worship. Nearly 1,500 worship leaders attended the event.  

“It was really moving to see all of the students up there as a united team, released to worship God, helping to bring all of the worship leaders in attendance into His presence,” said Steven Dahlgren, assistant professor of music and conductor of UCO.

Along with an opportunity to perform, the event provided a learning aspect for the students, Dahlgren added.

“I think that the students could learn that there’s an amazing intersection between years of preparation, practicing, honing your craft, doing the hard things, and being available for opportunities to serve God along the way as He opens doors and avenues of ministry,” Dahlgren said.

Joshua Ledezma, a music sophomore, said he appreciated performing with Evans and leading worship for pastors from around the world.

“Seeing how Anthony Evans and all the other talented musicians were able to lead so humbly from the platform strongly encouraged me to continue to do the same no matter how much applause may come my way,” Ledezma said.

Melody Leon, a music senior, said she gained a deeper understanding how musical sound and movement can bring about a powerful worship experience.

“During the whole night I could definitely feel the Lord’s presence in the room,” Leon said. “There was not a single dull moment as the audience rose to their feet for every single song that was performed.”

The UCO next performance will be on Sept. 23 at 6:00 p.m. at Magnolia Church in Riverside.