Ministry of Music: A Complete Handbook for the Music Leader in the Local Church

by Kenneth W. Osbeck

A practical handbook on music and its application in local church ministry. Widely used as a textbook in Bible schools.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction

192 pages, Paperback

First published June 30, 1971

About the author

A native of Michigan, Kenneth W. Osbeck entered the world on December 13, 1924. A World War II veteran, he earned a Master of Arts degree from the University of Michigan. He was well-known for his sixteen books related to hymn stories and music ministry, and he was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters degree from Cornerstone University. He taught music and fine arts for 35 years on the faculty of Cornerstone University and the Grand Rapids School of the Bible and Music. He served as minister of music in seven churches in the Grand Rapids area, and he directed music for the Children's Bible Hour, Youth for Christ, the Radio Bible Class, and Diadem Records.

After he retired from teaching, he and his wife, Betty, traveled extensively for many years presenting over 600 dramatized hymn story programs.

His books about the stories behind our hymns will live on as a memorial to his love for God and our worship of Him. His books included 101 Hymn Stories; 101 More Hymn Stories; the best-selling Amazing Grace: 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions; Hallelujah, What a Savior!; 25 Most Treasured Gospel Hymn Stories; and Joy to the World.

Reviews

[Marilyn Diamond · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a book to be read mandated by school and I was not very impressed.

[Jacki Drane · Rating 3 out of 5]

I give this book a 3.5. It has some definite strengths but it is very dated, and for a second edition printed in 2010 doesn’t seem to address more modern worship practices at all.
This said, Osbeck’s opening chapter giving a history of worship is informative and well written, and the chapters he writes on various aged choirs are fantastic. I’d highly recommended this text to anyone in choir ministry, but likely would not recommend to someone whose church only has a worship band and no desire to start a church choir or orchestra.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good overview of music ministry.