UVF - Music Department

Many of you may have already heard that long-time UVF music professor, Dr. Kent Smith, is relocating to the West Coast.
After 30 years of faithfully serving on our music faculty, Dr. Smith and his wife are following the Lord’s call into a new season of ministry as church planters. While we are deeply saddened to see him go, we celebrate his obedience to God’s direction and the exciting journey ahead.
Dr. Smith has impacted hundreds of students with his teaching, excellence, and heart for ministry. His legacy at UVF is one of faith, friendship, and dedication, and he will be greatly missed by our department and community.
Please join us in honoring Dr. Smith and praying for him and his wife as they step into this next chapter.

Abigail Burris is a worship leading major from the University of Valley Forge. She chose this major because despite the uncertainties she had about her future, she knew the Lord had called her to use the gifts He had given her to serve Him. Abigail began playing violin when she was in the fourth grade. A couple of years later, the Lord provided her family with a piano and instructed her parents to put her in lessons. Music became a big part of her life as she played in the symphony orchestra, youth worship band, and privately for the Lord. Abigail saw the power worship music had over her grandfather's life as he battled Alzheimer's disease. She saw the Lord move through the obedience and worship of His people through their giftings. She desired for the Lord to use her in the same way.

Her advice to current music students is "Remember everything the Lord has done in your life to bring you to this point. Remember the call that you have to serve Him. Remember why you love to worship Him through music. It is easy to take it all for granted, but it is beyond a blessing have a career doing something that you love. Continue discovering your musical passions and pay attention to what stirs your heart. He will use you in ways you may not have expected, but His ways are higher than our own. Stay close to Him so that you recognize His voice."

1 Peter 4:10 says, "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms."

Meet Rachel Martinez, a music educator, worship leader, and youth pastor at Christian Life Center in Missoula, MT! With a heart for both teaching and ministry, Rachel has dedicated the last three years to shaping the next generation of musicians, leading worship, and guiding her youth team. Her journey began here at UVF, where she earned her degree in Music Education – Choral Track. Valley Forge helped prepare and equip her to not only teach music in different environments but also grow and develop beginner musicians in school and worship ministry. Now she’s using those skills to serve both in the classroom and the church.
Her advice to current music students is: "Always follow God’s leading first. He may be calling you to different areas in music and ministry that you never thought you would be in. Get involved in your local church and learn as many skills as possible. You never know what giftings God will ask you to use."