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Catholic Association of Music (CAM)

CAM News 2004

by Lynn Geyer
Director of Public Relations

CAM, founded in 1996 by Catholic recording artist, John Michael Talbot, is a network of contemporary and liturgical music ministers who perform on the regional, national, and international levels. The mission of CAM is to provide spiritual, artistic, and professional guidance to Catholic musicians and to provide direction and education in the “business” of Catholic/Christian music ministry.

Benefits include a listing on the website, www.CAMmusic.com with a live link to each artist’s own website, contacts and leads to Catholic and Catholic friendly radio, TV, events, distribution, etc., co-op vendor participation in conferences (NCYC, NCCYM, REC, SCRC, NCEA and others) and trade shows (RBTE, CMN), subscription to our membership’s private e-group. The greatest benefit of membership is the fellowship, networking, and sense of community found among us . . . the willingness to mentor newcomers, share information, and good advice. The sense of “family” and “belonging” is very strong even though we are thousands of miles apart.

At the general conference each May, keynote speakers always include top industry professionals and include presentations on recording techniques, product marketing and packaging, performance (for concert venues) among other related topics. The highlight is always, Spirituality in Music, presented by John Michael Talbot . . . for his talks challenge and remind us to remain grounded in our Catholic faith as “performing artists.” The year 2003 was busy for CAM and NFCYM. CAM had a double booth at NCYC in Houston and many of our artists performed on the multitude of stages. As during NCCYM in Denver, CAM will again be represented in Pittsburgh on the Music Expo Task Group, and the Adult Conference Task Group, and is always present at the annual membership meeting.

CAM is not “youth ministry” per se, but rather has many members who are in youth ministry music. We are a cross section of musicians who can provide music for any type of event; in many cases these musicians are right in your own backyard and can fill a venue where flying someone in is not a possibility. CAM remains grateful to be part of this remarkable organization and is constantly inspired by the indefatigable spirit and commitment of the members who work for the “young church.”

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