Laus Deo, a ministry of North Star Independent Homeschoolers, Interior Alaska

Mr. James Miller, Principle Director
Mrs. Shannon Miller, Assistant Director/Accompanist

Oh, give thanks to the LORD!  Call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples!   Sing to Him, sing psalms to Him; Talk of all His wondrous works!  (I Chron. 10:9, 10)

MISSION

The purpose of the NSIH choir is to provide the opportunity for school-age students and their families to learn, refine, and share their musical abilities in a setting in which the primary purpose is to glorify our Creator – Laus Deo!  “Praise be to God!”

What a gift of joy it is to join with others to tune our voices to sing His praises!  God is the Creator and chief enjoyer of music, so it is our aim that in all aspects He will be exalted.  Music that is practiced and performed will be of a style that reflects His character, with lyrics that extol Him, in a manner that points to Him.  Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together!  (Ps. 34:3)  The desire is that families will take what they learn here and apply it to ministering to the Body of Christ at large. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.  (Col. 3:16)

STRUCTURE

A unique aspect of the choir is that all ages (children through adults) will be offered training in reading music, tuning pitch (finding the notes with your voice), and learning to harmonize.  Give to the LORD, O families of the peoples,give to the LORD glory and strength.  (I Chron. 10:28)

ABOUT THE DIRECTORS

We have spent literally our whole lives immersed in vocal and instrumental church music:  learning, ministering, teaching, planning, writing, supporting.  We have worked with groups of various sizes and ages across the country, always savoring the joy of the excellence of music written and performed to God’s glory.

While maintaining involvement in our local church, we desire to encourage and teach others in the extended local body to be able to do the same.  Vocal music instruction is of benefit to many NSIH members, and as NSIH is a Christian group, our philosophies mesh well.  Coming together as a larger group enables us all to accomplish musical goals that are not otherwise possible.

As we also have experience and enjoyment in drama, our future desire is to develop musical talent and add dramatical talent to grow a (separate) troupe to perform faith-based musicals (see www.LifehouseTheater.com).

Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully with a shout of joy.  (Ps. 33:1)

Please enjoy pieces from past concerts posted below.

“For the Beauty of the Earth”, Largos (age 8 and up) and Andantes (ages 6 and 7)

“This is How We Know”, Largos, Andantes, and Allegros (ages 3-5)

“Canon of Praise”, Largos

“Amazing Grace,” Largos, Andantes

“Canon of Praise” – Largos (photo edited)