2008 Woodie Awards
Joyful Sound turns 30
By: Aaron Earls
Issue date: 3/26/08 Section: Entertainment & Features
|
Published in the South Carolina Baptist Courier
In 1978, Mayson Easterling, then director of admissions at North Greenville College, hired Mike Baker as an admissions counselor. Together they started Joyful Sound, a vocal ensemble that has led worship in more than 3,500 concerts in the past 30 years, the vast majority in South Carolina Baptist churches.
Now directed by Steve Crouse and managed by Easterling, there are three Joyful Sound teams, a band, sound technicians and alternates - for a total of 47 students involved with the ministry.
The teams rehearse together during the week and head in three different directions on the weekends to minister in more than 225 churches during the academic year. Each team member receives a substantial scholarship from the university. They release a CD each year, which is produced with funds provided by Mr. and Mrs. Joe Hayes Sr.
Baker selected the first group in the spring of 1978, beginning with eight members. They had no outfits, sound equipment, or scholarships. They shared the two college vans with the athletic department. The ministry was able to get off the ground because NGU Alumnus David Wells provided sound equipment along with a trailer and a van to carry it to their venues.
While many of the circumstances have changed, much of what makes the music ensemble of the NGU Baptist Student Union successful remains the same.
The close bonds between the group members has led to lifelong friendships.
"Joyful Sound has been a tremendous opportunity to build strong, godly friendships," said current member Meagan Williams, senior music performance. "My Joyful Sound team has served as a refuge during a very difficult family situation. Having the prayers and support of my team members has been such an encouragement."
While Joyful Sound has been like family for many, for some it actually is family. Brothers, sisters and cousins have been part of the ensemble. Second-generation Joyful Sound members are becoming a reality. Alumna Alice Hinds Witt, the granddaughter of former North Greenville president M.C. Donnan, was a member of the first team.
For others, the ministry led to marriage.
Alumni Jody Jennings and Emily Boitnott Jennings were one of the couples who found love in Joyful Sound. "Joyful Sound encouraged me to grow in my personal relationship with God, and I believe that was the number one factor in our growth as a couple," said Jody. "Keeping Jesus at the center of our relationship was paramount, and Joyful Sound played a role in helping us do that."
Be the first to comment on this story