Update on Music Showcase 2027
After considerable thought and prayer, the Department of Music and Worship has decided not to host Music Showcase in 2027.
This was not an easy decision. Music Showcase has been a meaningful tradition and an important opportunity for the Department of Music and Worship to welcome Christian school students and directors to Cedarville University, celebrate their musical accomplishments, and introduce them to the university community. We are deeply grateful for the many years of participation and support from the schools, directors, students, faculty, and staff who have helped make Music Showcase a special event.
Several factors have contributed to this decision. New university policies and requirements related to hosting minors on campus have created significant additional responsibilities and costs. At this time, those requirements make it increasingly difficult for the Department of Music and Worship—and for the visiting Christian schools—to participate in Music Showcase in a way that is financially and practically sustainable.
This decision also comes at a significant transitional moment for our department. Dr. Lyle Anderson, who is retiring at the conclusion of the 2026–2027 academic year, has given 57 years of remarkable service to Cedarville University. His influence on generations of students, ensembles, churches, and Christian schools has been extraordinary, and his leadership has been an important part of the history and development of Music Showcase.
Given these circumstances, we believe this is an appropriate time to pause, listen, and prayerfully consider the best path forward. Rather than simply continuing the event because it has been a longstanding tradition, we want to take this opportunity to evaluate how Music Showcase might best serve students, Christian schools, and the mission of Cedarville University in the years ahead.
We are trusting God to provide the next choral faculty member who will join our department and bring fresh vision, gifts, and ideas for the future. We look forward to welcoming that person into our community and, in time, considering together what opportunities may exist for Music Showcase or a similar event in the future.
We are sincerely thankful for the many years of Music Showcase and for the partnership we have shared with Christian schools throughout the region. Our decision to pause Music Showcase for 2027 is not a reflection of its value or significance, but an opportunity to thoughtfully consider how we might best serve our students, our partner schools, and the Lord in the future.
We appreciate your understanding and continued partnership with Cedarville University and the Department of Music and Worship. Soli Deo Gloria!