Fourth International Conference on Orthodox Church Music Announced

Joensuu, Finland – The International Society for Orthodox Church Music (ISOCM) announced that the 4th International Conference on Orthodox Church Music will be held 6-12 June, 2011 at the University of Eastern Finland, in Joensuu, Finland.

“The theme of next year’s conference will be Unity and Variety in Orthodox Music: Theory and Practice,” said the Rev. Ivan Moody, chair of the ISOCM board adding, “As in the past, the topic is sure to attract many of the best Orthodox church musicians and musicologists, and all those interested in Orthodox church music round the world.”

Founded in 2005, the ISOCM provides church musicians from around the world with the opportunity to gather for dialogue and share resources related to Orthodox Church music. The success of the previous three conferences is apparent in the proceedings which the Society has published.

The ISOCM makes it possible for musicians and scholars from many countries to gather in one place for the exchange of ideas and information. In September 2010, the first call for papers will be announced.

“A broad range and great depth of practical scholarship is expected to be considered for presentation during the conference,” said Father Ivan, adding, “There are so many different ways this topic can be approached – it makes all kinds of contributions and presentations possible.”