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The National Forum of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians is pleased to announce that the Saint Romanos Church Music Festival has received unanimous approval by the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Archdiocese of America. In his Archiepiscopal letter to the National Forum’s chairman, Nick Chimitris, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros coveyed the collective appreciation of the Holy Eparchial Synod for the efforts made to bring this “inspiring endeavor to fruition” and offered their congratulations.
The Saint Romanos Church Music Festival is akin to the National Archdiocesan Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival but is centered on musical excellence instead of oratorical prowess. This is an opportunity for our youth to discover, cultivate and offer their musical talents to the glory of God, inspiring a new generation of church musicians to preserve and perpetuate our sacred hymnody.
Youngsters will participate in junior and senior divisions beginning at parish and metropolis level events. They are required to investigate the origin of the hymn they select to sing, its composer, approximate year of its composition, the category of the hymn and in which service it is sung. Metropolis winners in each division will then participate in the national festival.
The inaugural events are already taking place in each Metropolis. Winners in each division from each Metropolis will be invited to join the National Forum of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians at the 2026 Clergy Laity Congress. They will attend youth centered workshops by EIKONA, sing with the National Forum choir at the congress Opening Ceremony, Synodal Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, National Forum’s 50th Anniversary Luncheon and the Grand Banquet. Their winning performance will be showcased at the Ministry Village National Forum booth on video loop, as well. The inaugural national event will take place in early 2027.
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