Young family explodes with talent

We Are Seeking Friesen Family Band. MCM Studios, 2007.

The Friesen Family Band “Live” was a jaw-droppingly inspiring experience – a genuine release of young musical talent. I sat in rapt attention at Sardis Community Church, Chilliwack, B.C., for the rare opportunity to hear a young family of five children, from four months to 12 years old, sing folk-roots music with honest gusto. Not to mention that parents Chris and Louise have taught their children excellent musicianship, intonation, vocal production and rhythmic precision.

Like the live performance, their CD captures this outpouring of joy. Chris Friesen, recent pastor of Lendrum MB Church in Edmonton, wrote all but a few of the 17 songs, which includes a setting of Gerard Manley Hopkins’ God’s Grandeur. Scripture figures throughout, teaching good values and a positive faith.

The first song begins with the four children in a simple canon, “Abide With Us.” Silas, age 12, Simone, 10, Godwin, 8, and Amos, 6, all hold their own with confidence and excellent articulation. Louise plays guitar and recorder accompaniment in a song about tough decisions faced by families today, and Chris follows with Psalm 107, singing a song of praise, gratitude, faith, and promise.

The great pleasure of this album is not only found in its musical quality but also the knowledge that you’re observing the fruits of good training – the marriage of strong teaching and the fun and discipline of music. “Where Can I Go,” based on Psalm 139, is an example of how to teach children the priceless truth that God’s presence is with us always and everywhere (yes, even baby Junia participated). It reminded me of a quote from evangelist John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church, when he said that, “more Scripture is caught through songs than taught through sermons.”

Songs of praise dot the album, as the little members trade off instruments, accompanied by harmonizing parents. “Praises to God” has daughter Simone as lead singer, Godwin at the piano, Amos on glockenspiel, Silas on trumpet, and Chris on guitar, a variety of rhythmic instruments, and alto recorder.

The disc contains a clear statement of their vision of the “good life,” in “We Are Seeking.” Here the family unites with all their vocal and instrumental skills in a bold statement of invitation to “Come and join us on this way.” I can only imagine how much time, effort, and patience went into the preparation of this musical package.

For samples, visit friesenfamilyband.com.

Neil Matthies taught music at Columbia Bible College, Goshen College, and Bethany College. He is now responsible for Church and Donor Relations at CBC.