Have you ever wondered who is on the Sing For Joy team? Besides Pastor Bruce Benson, the program host, there are a few others working behind the scenes to bring the program to your ears every week. Last month we introduced you to Jeff O'Donnell, executive producer. Today we sit down with Joshua Wyatt, associate producer of Sing For Joy.

How long have you been involved with Sing For Joy?
7 Years

What is your current role at Sing For Joy?
Associate Producer -- My regular involvement includes oiling the gears that run the website and streaming services, developing and refining features, and installation and maintenance of studios. I also assist with the production of shows as needed, and do QA checks for the shows before distribution.

If someone peeked in your office, what would they find sitting on your desk?
Lots of gear and tools -- cables, connectors, crimpers, soldering station, hand tools -- in addition to drawings and schematics for equipment in various stages of construction or repair.

What is your favorite "season" of the church year?
My favorite liturgical season would have to be Lent -- there's so much packed in there, that you can create a meaningful experience for a congregation whether you just break the surface or dive to the bottom. I also enjoy cross-pollinating music between Advent and Lent, which both have many rich texts and tunes.

What is one of your all-time favorite hymns?
One of my favorites is "Christ, Mighty Savior." Reading the text evokes some beautiful imagery (among others, "... while in the heavens, choirs of stars appearing, hallow the nightfall.") Most of our worship services are in the morning, so evening hymns are, sadly, infrequently sung. Come hear for yourself on this archived Sing For Joy program. (Editor's note: coincidently, this is the same hymn O'Donnell mentioned in his interview!)

Tell me about one of your favorite Sing For Joy memories:
Before joining the professional staff, I had the joy of participating in hymn festivals with John Ferguson and Bruce Benson, as a member of the St. Olaf Cantorei while a student. Those experiences helped to shape my outlook and work as a church musician.

What do you love most about your job and being part of the Sing For Joy team?
I enjoy being able to connect my training and interest in church music with my interests in audio engineering and technology. It's always a pleasure to work with the rest of the great Sing For Joy team. Being on a college campus and interacting with our student staff keeps me young at heart.

What is something our readers don't know about you?
Outside of work, I am a pilot, house-builder, and hobby farmer. I served as music director at an ELCA church for 8 years.