Florida Orthodox Community Hosts First Young Aspiring Chanters Conference

Photo: Sophia Pavlatos/PAV Photography

BOCA RATON, FL — St. Mark Greek Orthodox Church hosted the inaugural Young Aspiring Chanters Conference from March 6–8, drawing more than 40 young men and women from across the United States to explore the sacred tradition of Orthodox Christian chant. The three-day event introduced participants to the fundamentals of Byzantine chant, emphasizing its structure, beauty, and spiritual depth as a form of prayer in the Church.

The conference was co-chaired by Sam Atalis and Andreas Stamatakis, co-founders of The Chant Stand, who, along with volunteers, organized instructional workshops, mentorship sessions, and hands-on chanting exercises. Renowned chanters Samuel Herron and Joshua Boyd guided participants through liturgical practice and the theological significance of hymnography.

Attendees chanted together during services at St. Mark's, experiencing firsthand how Byzantine chant elevates worship and unites the faithful. Fr. Mark Leondis highlighted the event as “a living tradition that connects us to the faith of the apostles, the saints, and generations of Orthodox Christians.” Organizers hope the conference will grow and serve as a feeder program for the Metropolis’ Liturgical Arts Academy, nurturing future leaders in sacred music.

Previously, the UOJ reported that church musicians gathered in Phoenix for a winter institute.

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