The National Association of Pastoral Musicians (NPM) as an organization helps to identify and

advance the state of music ministry in the catholic faith. Their mission statement is The National
Association of Pastoral Musicians fosters the art of musical liturgy. The members of NPM serve the
Catholic Church in the United States as musicians, clergy, liturgists, and other leaders of prayer. Their
national conferences benefit all those who participate by providing a wealth of instructional
information that can be sold or taught to other parishes/schools. There are programs that help
Cantors improve in their singing techniques, presentation, delivery, understanding of material,
and a connection to the scripture. There are masterclasses that teach techniques that show
how to get a choir, no matter what age, engaged and on track. There are sessions to help
expose directors to different venues and avenues of music that normally wouldnt be performed.
There is exposure to newer works of music that can be used to liven up a parish or school.
There are associations and meetings that help progress under-represented segments of the
catholic faith. There are showcases of new repertoire can classic repertoire. There are areas in
which artistic masses are help with multicultural influence and many key speakers.

The magazine showcases new pieces and helps keep directors on track for learning whats next
on their liturgical calendars. There are in-depth analysis of both classic/standard pieces of
repertoire and brand new pieces including an interview with the composer. There are selections
of suggested pieces for the liturgical calendar and there are products available to help with the
learning of music and including materials that help with music instruction.

As a music director at a catholic school, NPM has provided me with resources that have aided
my instruction to allow my students to succeed in their musicianship and be more prepared as a
college musician.