The Commission on Liturgical Music of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey will present “Making Melodists: A Workshop for Orthodox Musicians” on Friday and Saturday, November 6–7, 2026, at Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church, 285 French Hill Road, Wayne, New Jersey. The workshop is dedicated to the memory of +Fr. Dan Skvir, longtime Co-Chairman of the Commission on Liturgical Music.

The workshop will be led by Juliana Woodill, Music Program Director at St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Monastery in South Canaan, Pennsylvania. Woodill oversees the monastery’s music residents, conducts its Mixed Choir and Women’s Choir, and teaches conducting, choral methods, the eight tones, and musicianship. She has extensive experience conducting Orthodox choirs and leading workshops and training programs for church musicians.

Friday evening, from 6:00–9:00 PM, will feature a Conductors’ Round Table, with sessions addressing gestural language for conductors, physical exercises for conducting, and a forum devoted to the challenges faced by those serving as leaders in Orthodox music ministry.

On Saturday, from 9:00 AM–3:30 PM, the program will expand to a General Workshop for All Musicians. Topics will include warm-ups for church musicians, physical and vocal technique, introducing and learning new music, improving choral tone and ensemble sound, and developing better intonation.

The workshop is free for all participants, and light meals will be provided.

Registration opens October 1.

Register online:
Making Melodists Registration Form

For additional information or questions, contact the Commission on Liturgical Music at nynjmusicoca@gmail.com.