The nine-voice acappella vocal ensemble, Shekinah, sang at the annual Harmonies benefit concert, Saturday, 7:00 p.m., April 12, 2008, at the Blossom Hill Mennonite Church. The concert included traditional congregational singing of both old and new songs, including selections from Sing the Story.
Shekinah formed in 2003 to provide music for Eastern Mennonite University’s chapel. Five years later these nine singers are still rehearsing weekly and getting more invitations than they can accept. Their unique blend of women's voices and exciting arrangements has created worship experiences and rave reviews for audiences on many campuses and churches. Shekinah's repertoire includes folk hymns, spirituals, classical sacred, and some secular pieces
"We have grown incredibly as a group and make the music our own,” said Heidi Bowman of the ensemble. “Each woman brings a distinct personality to the group, and each individual contributes in her own way to Shekinah's success and growth. Above all, we raise our voices to give back to God the talents God blessed us with."
Besides Heidi, the vocalists are: Andrea Kniss Stutzman, Eve Knepp, Joanna Showalter, Jenny Hartwig, Sara Gingerich, Katie Derstine, Chris Kniss, and Shannon Blosser, all of Harrisonburg, Virginia.
The April 12 concert was a benefit for the music ministries of Harmonies, which promotes hymn singing.
Sample the type of music used by the Amish in both worship and social singing in German and English.