The following is an email interview I conducted with Glen Zehr (Random Pitches) of Voice of Praise. I used the event of their recent release, Deliverance, as a reason to ask him a few things I was curious about.

One might deduce from “Deliverance” that VOP has ventured into a little new territory as far as musical arrangements (e.g. Down By the Riverside, I’m Going to Let it Shine). Is this shift premeditated and intentional? If so, why?

As far as Riverside we really liked the song and found it a lot of fun to sing. So this was a premeditated change. However, there were some songs on our last album, Resting In His Grace, that were somewhat of a switch for the group. As far as the children’s medley, we asked Rumsey to do an arrangement of children’s songs for us and this was what he sent us. So, we did it. I guess that would be premeditated also.

How did you happen to have Marcus Yoder contribute liner notes?

Besides the fact that Marcus and I are really good friends, we wanted someone who had some recognition in Mennonite circles. We also wanted someone who appreciated what we are trying to do musically. More importantly he understands the struggle we have in finding Deliverance. He understood the message of these songs.

The last few recordings, you used John McVey to record/co-produce. What would you say are the unique qualities he brings to a VOP project?

Mcvey is the reason the group has improved. He has pushed us to be more rhythmically correct. Learn how the chord sounds when it “snaps” or “locks.” Realize what this sound is and learn to get it all the time.

How did you happen to become acquainted or start working with him?

He was working at Alive when we went to do the “What A Friend” album. He worked us over so well we decided that we really could not live without him. He brings so many things to the table. Ideas about what to do with songs, etc.

What is the status of your commission to Tim Rumsey for O for a Thousand Tongues?

Well, we are scheduled to record this song on our “Reunion” album this summer. This is another wonderful arrangement of an old hymn. I love the way he makes the words fit the music. His music brings the words to life.

What do you have in the works for “Reunion?”

Well, we are planning on doing an album this summer and going on a 2 week tour in ’07. At this point everyone (all former and current group members) is planning on going so we will have group of ten.

How did your relationship with Rumsey begin?

This is interesting. Rumsey did a Christmas work “Emmanuel” that was recorded at Alive. McVey was the engineer. Anyway, we got him to play some of the stuff for us. I really liked it and ordered the album. Later (six months) I visited Rumsey’s website and looked at all his sheet music. I noticed there was none listed for male voices so I emailed him and asked him if he had any. He replied and said no. I emailed him back and asked him if he wanted to do any for us. He said sure and wanted us to give him some song titles to choose from. So we did.