To the editor:

I am writing in regard to the blind condemnation of the entire music department in the Friday, October 24th, Clarion.  It seems to me that the editor of our All-American newspaper could document her accusations with facts rather than obviously erroneous opinions concerning the music students and faculty.

In the first place, it was stated that the image presented by students in musical organizations is a distorted image of the Bethel community.  There are over 200 members involved in the touring groups.  To say that all of these, or even the majority are unfit to convey "where Bethel is at" is simply an unfounded accusation.

I would be the first to admit that I am not a spiritual giant on this campus, but my purpose in being in music is to serve Christ in the best possible way according to the desires and abilities which He has given me.  I have experienced more spiritual growth in College Choir because of the music we have sung and the influence of the mature spiritual thinking of fellow choir members and Dr. Robert Berglund, than in any other single phase of my college life.  I know that this is also true of many other members of College Choir and all of the other groups.

Why is it necessary, then, to condemn our spiritual influence because our avenue of self-expression, and our level of musical appreciation and understanding is different from the so-called typical Bethel student?

The second possibility stated was that music students are perhaps the "timid, bookish parasites" on campus.  If any research had been done to find out exactly who music students are, the inquirer would have readily found out how ridiculous this line of thinking is.  Involved in the music program are students who are active participants in all facets of Bethel society.  It isn't hard to find examples of leaders, athletes and scholars who are also fine musicians.  A study of last year's Who's Who list reveals that one third of the 25 who were elected were involved some way in music.  Out of 16 class officers, eight were in music in some form.

In the past two graduating classes, one of the top two students has been a musician.  Musical organizations have helped supply the Homecoming and Sno-Daze courts with many beautiful young ladies for years and significantly six of the twelve student missionaries last summer were involved in performing organizations.  Could these outstanding individuals possibly be representative of the "dead weight" of the campus?  I am in no way trying to slight those individuals who are actively involved in Bethel life but not in music, but I am merely pointing out the fact that the music department not only attracts the persons who accurately represent Bethel life, but those who represent the best that Bethel has to offer.

I feel strongly that the Bethel music department, under the very capable musical and spiritual leadership of its faculty members, is making not only a significant contribution to the daily campus life, but is performing a relevant ministry to the outside world through music.

I would hope that in the future the Clarion would refrain from condemning the music department and displaying its obvious lack of musical and personal understanding.  A high level of excellence is being achieved in music and a great deal of self-discipline and hard work is involved in arriving at such a level.  Rather than doubting our motivation and achievements, it would be wise to allow our spiritual and personal lives to be judged by God alone.

Within the choral program alone there are three separate ministries performed, each appeals to a different type of people.  Our musical ministry is not to hippies, but this doesn't mean we don't minister.  Everyone is in need of Christ, not just hippies.

Perhaps those people who feel so strongly about the lack of relevance of the music department would reconsider their position and concern themselves with the best way for them to serve.  If my interests and desires are right between God and myself, there is no reason for any other individual to doubt that my actions are proper.  I trust that God will continue to abundantly bless our department, and that people will not only become interested in Bethel because of it, but will be won to Christ.

Lynnette Port '71