Syntax Creative has added three church-based music partners to its distribution roster. The new partners are Gateway Assembly in Imlay City, Michigan; Foothills Christian Church in El Cajon, California; and The Grove Church in San Diego.
Each church is preparing or releasing original music for audiences beyond its local congregation. Together, the agreements expand Syntax Creative’s work with churches and worship ministries in the digital marketplace.
Three Churches, Three Releases
Gateway Assembly plans to release SEVEN, a new album from its worship band WE ARE ONE, in June. The project will arrive through the church’s newly launched Mainstay Records. Meanwhile, the band has already released a self-titled EP to digital services.
“The fact that everything seems to be moving digital is an incredible advancement for anyone willing to take their art seriously and devote themselves to doing it with excellence,” Gateway Assembly’s Stephen Krist said.
According to Krist, digital distribution lowers some of the risk involved in creating music and film. At the same time, it gives creators a faster way to reach a wider audience.
In August, The Grove Church plans to release the first full-length album from Grove Church Worship. Dream Project will feature original worship songs recorded live at the outdoor amphitheater atop Mt. Helix in San Diego County.
“We don’t believe that the digital marketplace is the future. We believe it is the now,” Caleb Hoffman of The Grove Church said. “We believe that digital streaming is the best way to spread our music beyond our own congregation.”
Foothills Christian Church, meanwhile, has released Return. Church members wrote nine of its 10 songs, and the project also includes one cover. In addition, the El Cajon church operates the long-running Future Quest youth conference and five Youth Venture after-school centers.
“We understand that this is the future and are excited that doors will be opened to share our church’s worship music in a broader way,” Foothills’ Mike VanMeter said.
Local Songs, Wider Audiences
For Syntax Creative CEO Timothy Trudeau, the partnerships show how locally written songs can reach people far beyond the congregations where they began.
“While a song, teaching or event may originate with an individual or local church, the message within might be what the whole world needs to hear,” Trudeau said. “It’s a privilege to assist these three local churches with their goal of getting their music to a much wider audience.”
Gateway Assembly launched in 1998 and also produces film and media projects. Founded in 2010, The Grove Church is based in San Diego. Foothills Christian Church began in El Cajon in 1987.
In addition, the three churches join other ministries already working with Syntax Creative. Those partners include Saddleback Church, Elevation Church, Free Chapel and Vineyard Worship.