Proverbs 22:29. "Observe people who are good at their work—skilled workers are always in demand and admired; they don't take a backseat to anyone.

Proverbs 22:29; Says "Observe people who are good at their work—skilled workers are always in demand and admired; they don't take a backseat to anyone. This principle is certainly true for Ross Lippencott, a 20-year old who has just released his fourth album, and for 17-year old Robert Quintin, Jr. who was invited to come and perform in Atlanta for members of the King family; during an awards ceremony.

So "what does Ross Lippencott and Robert Quintin, Jr., have to do with the International Worship Ministry Conference?"

Everything! It is our responsibility, as leaders, to make an investment in guys like Ross and Robert, every chance we get. They are our future. Anyway, I want to share with you 5 very good reasons why you should attend IWMC 2009.

Reason # 1
The IWMC provides its participants with real-world training by seasoned executives, professionals and worship ministry leaders who are experts in their fields of study.

Reason # 2
The IWMC provides mentorship: Dave Eastman (Congregational Worship Leader and Evangelist Chicago Church of Christ), J. Brian Craig a prolific song writer and friend, and Winston Philip, a veteran NYC Music Producer have provided me with invaluable insights, critique and encouragement in my capacity as the Music Ministry Leader in Baltimore.

Reason # 3
The IWMC provides incredible networking opportunities - The recent African American Heritage Festival (AAHF) community worship service hosted by the Baltimore Church would not have been as successful without the involvement of 10+ churches in our fellowship alone, not to mention two-time Grammy-nominated artists like Michelle Bonilla and others. I have just given you three (3) very good reasons to attend. Please read below for Reason #s 4 & 5.

Reason # 4
Ross Lippencott is an independent Singer/Songwriter from the heart of New Jersey. As a young boy he started singing and playing guitar, and by the age of 15 he had written and recorded his first full-length album. In total, Ross has released 4 albums of original music – 3 solo albums (at ages 15, 17, and 19) and a band album. Ross has toured up and down the east coast playing music with his blues-rock hip-hop band, The N Result. The N Result, which blends diverse musical styles to create a positive and inspiring eclectic product, features Ross as the lead vocalist and includes a rapper, keyboard player, bassist, guitarist, and drummer. The group has opened for headlining acts such as Pharrell Williams/N.E.R.D., Motion City Soundtrack, and Ryan Leslie. The band recently released their debut album, “Lines”, to rave reviews. The N Result is currently under the management of Yandy Smith, of Monami Entertainment, who also manages rapper Jim Jones of The Diplomats and Missy Elliot. In 2008, Ross was accepted to the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, where he studied Classical Bel Canto vocal technique under the renowned tenor and vocal coach, Frederick Urrey. At Rutgers, Ross has performed in productions such as Offenbach’s “Les Contes D’Hoffman” and Purcell’s “Fairy Queen”, as well as productions of the Verdi Requiem, Durufle Requiem, and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “Five Mystical Songs” with the Rutgers’ Kirkpatrick Choir. Ross is currently finishing his final year at Rutgers and playing concerts with The N Result.

Reason # 5
Last December, Robert Quintin, Jr., performed, for music industry executive and Multi-Grammy song writing artist, Makeba Riddick, during her annual community Christmas party for the disadvantaged. This year, Robert was invited to perform for the King Family of Atlanta to perform a new urban contemporary anthem. "The Dream Realized," inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King's famous "A Knock at midnight" speech, given in 1967.

Robert and Ross are scheduled to perform at the IWMC.

I have just given you 5 very good reasons you should attend IWMC 2009.

For more information go to http://www.nechristianconference.com/

We can't wait to see you at IWMC 2009.

Tony Martin for
The IWMC Planning Committee