Welcome to Beauty through Faith, a podcast of the Kalos Arts Foundation. Experience Beauty through Faith this fall at our 2025 Rocky Mountain Regional Conference in Fort Collins, Colorado, on September 26th and 27th. Be inspired by the power of faith and creativity—visit kalosarts.org for details and registration.

Today we welcome Melanie Penn—a classically trained vocalist and songwriter based in Nashville. From her early career in New York’s theater scene, including starring as Sandy in the national Broadway tour of Grease! alongside Frankie Avalon, to her years as a worship leader at Redeemer Presbyterian Church under Tim Keller’s leadership, Melanie’s journey reflects a unique blend of artistry and faith.

She has released multiple albums with producer Ben Shive, including Wake Up Love, Hope Tonight, and More Alive, Volumes 1 and 2. Her 2017 concept album Immanuel—a musical journey through the Christmas story—reached #1 on Amazon’s Christian, Worship, and Holiday charts. Her newest project, The Rising: A Resurrection Album, will be released throughout 2025.

You can learn more at melaniepenn.com.

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Summary

In this episode, Melanie Penn shares her journey as a classically trained vocalist and songwriter, discussing the intersection of beauty, faith, and artistry. She reflects on her experiences in the musical theater world, the influence of Tim Keller, and the importance of pursuing excellence in her work. The conversation delves into her latest project, 'The Rising,' which explores the resurrection of Christ, and the challenges artists face in balancing their faith with the commercial aspects of the art world. Melanie emphasizes the significance of beauty in truth-telling and the role of the church in supporting artists.

Chapters

00:00 The Pursuit of Beauty

01:51 Crafting Music and Truth

04:50 Influence of Tim Keller

07:58 Excellence in Artistry

10:52 Connecting with the Audience

14:03 Emerging from Darkness

17:39 Faith in the Arts

23:44 The Pursuit of Beauty in Culture

24:21 The Role of the Church in Supporting Artists

27:39 Navigating the Commercial Art World

31:17 Exploring Non-Explicitly Christian Art

35:19 The Excitement of New Projects

39:28 The Creative Process and Collaboration

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