Getting to know — Faith Abercrombie, Accompanist
By Jeff Rivenbark
How long have you been at Holy Covenant?
In the Spring of 2006, I agreed to serve as an interim pianist for the Summer. Five years later, I’m still here.
How long have you played piano?
Last year, I was with a childhood friend while her Dad was hospitalized. We took a walk and noticed a piano in the hospital chapel. She said, “I’m going to stretch out on a pew while you play songs for me – just like the old days!” It was a special moment to reflect on the people who have walked my pianist journey with me.
I started taking lessons when I was 6 years old. I knew pretty soon that I loved it; however, like most students didn’t practice very seriously until high school and then college. Thankfully, my mother NEVER said, “If you’re not going to practice, I’m not going to pay for it.” I was blessed with friends and family that were continuous encouragers. I was fortunate to study with wonderful teachers who were not only very fine musicians and pianists, but truly lovely people and role models.
What is your favorite hymn?
Having sung/played hymns all my life, it’s hard to choose. When I was young, it was “At Calvary” with its peppy chorus that says, “Mercy there was great, and grace was free.” I love “For the Beauty of the Earth,” “Fairest Lord Jesus,” and “Lift High the Cross.” The soprano solo “I Know That My Redeemer Liveth” from the Messiah stops me in my tracks every time and makes me wish I could really sing!
Can you name a composer/songwriter who inspires you?
Bach and Handel. A more contemporary composer that I really like is Melody Bober who is also a piano teacher from Minnesota. I’ve played some of her pieces and arrangements for worship and use many of her teaching pieces with my students.
What brings you the greatest joy playing the piano?
Some of my greatest joys are the friends I have made through the years as a teacher and accompanist. It’s a joy to see a student learn to play well, or hear the congregation sing. A choir’s hard work and personal sacrifice is always inspiring to me. A third grader once asked me if I was “born to play piano.” I told him that I hope I’m doing what God wants me to do, because I sure am happy doing it!
Advice to young musicians:
Be kind, be humble, be tenacious, be grateful. Don’t take one person’s criticism as the final word. Don’t let any teacher or professor “eat you for lunch” more than once. If it makes your body ache, rest immediately. If you choose music for a career, you might want to marry someone with a real job. (Sort-of-a-joke-but-at-the-same-time-true.)