Field Trip: Sandra McCracken in Lancaster!

Yesterday my husband and I went to Lancaster to attend a workshop and concert of my favorite singer/songwriter, Sandra McCracken.  The tickets were a present from my husband.  What a guy!

She's an independent artist who lives in Nashville, so it's not too often that she tours up in this area.  I was so excited when I found out she would be so close!  The event was sponsored by an organization called The Row House.  The first part of the afternoon was a workshop at The First Floor.

The workshop was a time for us to mingle with other people, engage in some conversations about art and faith, hear a little bit about Sandra and her journey, and of course eat some great food!  The  Row House did such a great job hosting this event.  The food was delicious!

After a time of food and fellowship, it was time to hear what Sandra had to say.  She talked about her songwriting process and how it's evolved over the years.  She talked about her love of hymns and why they are an important part of her life.

  

Sandra has been involved with the Indelible Grace project.  It's a group of people who have started to put new tunes to old hymns.  I used many of their arrangements when I worked as a worship leader.  One of my favorite parts of the day was when Sandra sang one of her songs from the project, "O Love That Will Not Let Me Go," and everyone in the room started singing along.  In a moment we were instantly connected to these new, old hymns and to everyone in the room.  It was such a powerful thing to be a part of.  

After the workshop, it was time to head over to the concert venue.  The concert was held at the Elks Club.

Again, The Row House did an amazing job coordinating everything.  They decorated the hall with candles and had snacks for people to eat.  They even had a guy spinning records to create some ambiance before the show.

Finally, it was time for Sandra's set.  She played a good variety from all of her albums.  She did a lot of story telling between the songs that added to the intimate feeling of the show.  She took a few requests from the audience.

Here's a video I took of one of the songs at the concert.  This song is a special one that we used to sing when I was working as a worship leader.  This goes out to all of the folks from Allison!

I brought along a copy of her latest album, and at the end of the night she signed it for me.  It really was a great night and one that I'll remember for a long time!  I hope you'll take the time to check out her music.  I have no doubt that you'll be inspired by her thoughtful lyrics like I am!