The Institute of Liturgical Studies has named ALCM member Nate Crary as the Brugh Emerging Leader for 2025. Nate has served as a church musician in many settings, from suburban church to campus ministry to camp. In addition to leading assembly song, Nate has composed settings of the liturgy and other music for worship, depending on his context. He leads assembly song genuinely with his voice and various other instruments. At ILS, Nate has led liturgies and sang in the Schola.
His nominator wrote, “Nate leads the song of the church confidently and with flexibility. He can adjust his approach to support the assembly he is leading while still using his own voice. Nate’s faithful leadership and creativity in creating new music for worship helps transform the church and foster community. Nate is experienced in a variety of forms of liturgical expression, yet he remains connected to the great tradition. He will encourage and help future church musicians approach their work with similar curiosity and thoughtfulness so that assemblies continue to sing boldly.”
Nate’s workshop presentation at this year’s Institute is emblematic of his commitment to the continuous development of the liturgical tradition; “Music: Developing Seasonal Liturgical Framework That Helps Expand Traditional vs Contemporary Labels.”
The Brugh Emerging Leader Award was established in recognition of Lorraine (Institute director, 2004–17) and Gary Brugh. The award’s purpose is twofold: (1) to honor and encourage individuals early in their vocation and (2) to acknowledge significant gifts already made by these individuals for the good of the whole church through such activities as creation of content—writings, music, art, presentations, and more—that, among other considerations: nurture relationships within communities; demonstrate an ongoing commitment to education; and balance received wisdom with new and creative expressions. The award is intended for individuals in the first 10–15 years of their professional careers (regardless of age or previous occupations) and is accompanied by a stipend of $500.00 to be used by the recipient for continuing education at their discretion.
Congratulations, Nate!
