The National Forum of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians (National Forum) convened July 3rd through the 6th for their annual meeting. A New Music Symposium was held in conjunction with the annual meeting.
Delegates and musicians from throughout the Archdiocese, representing every Metropolis met at the Holy Trinity Church of Clearwater, Florida. Over one-hundred and fifty pages of music sung during the Lenten Period were submitted by composers of our Holy Orthodox Church. Sight reading sessions led by our many accomplished Choir Directors were held each day interwoven with the sessions of the annual meeting. We were most honored with a surprise visit by His Eminence Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain who happened to be visiting in the area.
The delegates discussed a wide variety of topics important to Church Music Ministry.
It was announced by National Chairman Nick Chimitris, that the National Forum is now a 501C3 entity. Reports by the many committees of the organization were presented as were updates by each Church Musicians Federation which comprise the National Forum. Highlights included the funding for development of a National Forum APP and our Church Music Leadership project which will provide comprehensive informative and training opportunities for all musicians within the Orthodox Church with special modules for Clergy and Youth. Important discussions regarding the development of the Saint Romanos Church Music Festival, a festival modeled after the Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival, also took place. The newly produced Anastassioiu Enharmonic Greek/Official English Liturgy was on display and will be available by the end of August 2025.
Social activities included an evening at Tarpon Springs with dinner at Mamma’s Greek Cuisine restaurant and a very special evening on July 4th at the Safetey Harbor Hotel and Spa concluding with a spectacular fireworks display. Visits to the Dali Museum, Chihuly Gallery and beautiful Clearwater Beach took place as well.
The National Forum will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary during the 2026 Clergy Laity Congress. Plans are already underway for a year-long celebration beginning with the Congress and continuing throughout 2026. The Saint Romanos Church Music Festival will debut as part of the celebration as will events held by member Federations throughout the year. Many more events are being planned.
The annual meeting concluded with the attending members singing at the Divine Liturgy Sunday morning. The choir was directed by the most talented Joanne Kambouris, Director of the Holy Trinity Choir.
