If you attended Worship & Music this summer, chances are Brian Blount's sermons stayed with you long after the conference ended.

In this episode of Sounding Board, Brian joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about preaching, worship, storytelling, and the moments that have shaped his faith. He shares memories from this summer's conference, reflects on the power of the preached word, and tells a few stories that are as entertaining as they are meaningful. From his self-deprecating comments about choir singing to profound insights about ministry, Brian's warmth, wisdom, and humor shine throughout this conversation.

Tune in for an episode that will leave you smiling, thinking, and maybe even hearing scripture in a new way.

Today on Sounding Board, we're honored to welcome Dr. Everett McCorvey, one of America's most inspiring voices in sacred, classical, and operatic music. Growing up in Montgomery, Alabama, Everett's journey began with the sounds of church, community, and family before taking him to some of the world's most prestigious stages, including the Metropolitan Opera and Kennedy Center. As founder of the American Spiritual Ensemble, conductor, educator, and mentor to countless young musicians, he's dedicated his life to preserving musical traditions while helping the next generation find their own voices. In this conversation, you'll hear unforgettable stories about his childhood, his early encounters with musical greatness, and the experiences that shaped a remarkable career of artistry, leadership, and faith. Please enjoy our conversation with Dr. Everett McCorvey

In this heartfelt episode of Sounding Board, we sit down with Martha Hopson and her daughters, Maria and Carol, to remember and celebrate the life and legacy of beloved composer, church musician, and educator Hal Hopson.

Known for the music that has shaped worship in countless congregations, Hal Hopson touched the lives of generations through his compositions and devotion to the church. But beyond the music was a husband, father, mentor, and friend. Martha, an accomplished musician in her own right, joins Maria and Carol to share personal stories, cherished memories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the man whose work continues to inspire worshipers around the world.

Filled with laughter, warmth, and touching reflections, this conversation offers a rare and intimate look at Hal's creativity, faith, family life, and enduring impact on church music.Whether you've sung one of Hal Hopson's anthems or are discovering his story for the first time, you'll be inspired by this family's memories and the legacy they continue to carry forward.

Support the Hal and Martha Hopson Service Musician Fund: https://www.presbymusic.org/give-online

When does patriotism belong in worship, and when does it distract from the gospel?

In this thought-provoking episode of Sounding Board, hosts Sarah Abushakra and Jeremy Roberts welcome two respected church music scholars, Dr. Michael Hawn and Dr. Joshua Taylor, for a conversation about patriotism in the church and in congregational song.

Together, they explore how patriotic music found its way into worship, how attitudes toward national identity and faith have evolved over the years, and the challenges church musicians and worship leaders face when planning services in today's divided cultural landscape. They discuss the difference between honoring one's country and elevating nationalism, the role music plays in shaping congregational identity, and how churches can thoughtfully navigate these complex issues.

Whether you're a pastor, church musician, worship planner, or simply someone interested in the intersection of faith, music, and culture, this episode offers historical insight, pastoral wisdom, and plenty of food for thought.

What does it take to help children find their voices in worship? In this episode of Sounding Board, hosts Sarah Abushakra and Jeremy Roberts welcome Katie Houts—worship curator, educator, composer, and children's choir leader—for a conversation about children's vocal pedagogy, choral leadership, and composing music for young voices. Katie shares her passion for helping children grow as singers, worship leaders, and active participants in the life of the church. Listeners will also hear from one of the leaders who served at the 2026 PAM Worship & Music Conference, where Katie was Children's Music Director.

We took Sounding Board on the road to Beer & Hymns at the PAM Worship & Music Conference! Sarah and Jeremy talk with attendees about their conference experience and excitement for the evening, then welcome special guest Mark Miller for a conversation about music, faith, and community.

What does a healthy, life-giving relationship between a director and organist actually look like?

In this episode of Sounding Board, we sit down with Karrie Rushing and Brad Collier—a duo who truly embody what strong, collaborative ministry can be. Through their conversation, they offer an honest, encouraging look at how trust, communication, and mutual respect shape their work together.

From navigating musical decisions to supporting one another in worship leadership, Karrie and Brad share real stories and practical insights from their partnership—showing how a shared vision and a spirit of collaboration can transform not just the music, but the entire worship experience.

Whether you’re a director, organist, pastor, or part of a worship team, this episode invites you to reflect on your own working relationships and imagine what’s possible when it really clicks.

Because when it works well, it’s not just functional—it’s joyful.

On this episode of Sounding Board, we're turning our attention to the numbers-and the stories behind them. We're joined by Sean Payne, statistician for the PC(USA), to help us understand the latest Salary Survey Results and what they reveal about the current state of music ministry in the church. Sean brings clarity, context, and insight to data that affects real people and real congregations. This is the first part of an important conversation-setting the landscape before we dig deeper into what it all means for musicians and worship leaders.

This episode of Sounding Board, we’re honored to welcome David Gambrell—a theologian, liturgical leader, and one of the most influential voices in Reformed worship today. David has been a huge part of Worship & Music year after year, helping shape not just the conference, but the way many of us think about worship itself. His partnership with PAM has been a gift, and his voice is one we’re always eager to hear.

Welcome to Sounding Board, where we listen closely to the voices shaping worship, preaching, and the life of the church. Today we’re thrilled to be joined by the Rev. Dr. Margaret Aymer—an extraordinary preacher, teacher, and scholar. If you were at Worship & Music 2025, you already know how powerfully her preaching rings with truth, imagination, and pastoral depth. Margaret is one of those voices who stays with you long after the sermon ends, and we’re so glad to welcome her into this conversation.