The influence of Delton Lynol Alford's life and work on the musical heritage of the Church of God
This dissertation provides a survey of the life, professional philosophy, theories, and works of Delton Lynol Alford (b. August 18, 1938). The primary purpose of the study incorporates two sub-problems: first, an overview of the education, musical advancements, ministry, and leadership roles of Delton Lynol Alford, and how his work and theological beliefs influenced the Church of God's evangelical church music heritage; second, a review of selected compositions and other writings, including a catalogue and discography of Alford's published and unpublished works. The dissertation is divided into seven chapters: Chapter 1 provides a statement of purpose and sets forth the delimitations and the need for the study. The historical background further establishes the importance of Delton Lynol Alford's contributions and the need for this research. Chapter 2 provides a biographical sketch of Alford's life. Chapter 3 discusses Alford's education. Chapter 4 examines Alford's academic career as a music instructor, department chair, choral conductor, dean and vice president of Lee University, Cleveland, Tennessee. Chapter 5 traces the continuing career Alford had in local churches while pursuing his academic and educational goals. His work as a Church of God national executive is detailed and his appointment as chairman of Church of God's National Music Committee. Chapter 6 investigates Alford's compositions, arrangements, productions, and writings. Chapter 7, a conclusion of the study, restates the purpose of the dissertation and describes Alford's influence in the Church of God. This includes the education and training of musicians, contributions to academic advancements in the denomination's university system, the establishment of national programs for training and music ministry, the creation of music products for ministry, and the direction of evangelical music in the Church of God. The Appendix includes a review of selected compositions and other writings, a catalogue and discography of Alford's published work, and samples of two original vocal/piano scores.
Alford, Delton L.--Influence., Church of God--Songs and music--History and criticism.
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