Music creators around the Southern Asia-Pacific Division discussed the digitalization of music, sound engineering, music production, and the importance of worship in modern media during the first SSD Digital Music Creators Conference in Cagayan De Oro City. Hosted by the SwPUC from November 14-17, 2024, the event featured workshops, keynote sessions, and group activities where participants created original music and transformed it into digital content.

The more than 80 delegates came from the Malaysia Union Mission, West Indonesia Union Mission, North Philippine Union Conference, Southwestern Philippine Union Conference, Southeastern Philippine Union Mission, and Central Philippine Union Conference. 

SSD Communications Director Pr. Heshbon Buscato emphasized the responsibility of the Communications Department to help Adventist musicians digitize their content and take advantage of recent technologies to share their music in the best way possible.

"The church's mission can spread through music. We need to learn how to transform raw musical talent into digital formats that can reach people online and on social media," he added. 

During the discussions, participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to meet other music creators within the region. Many shared plans to collaborate and develop new ideas on making their music both relatable and inspiring to listeners.  

One participant, Dann Merck Arellano, from the SePUM, shared, "This program is very interesting. It gives us a chance to learn more about using digital music in ministry. I hope the music missionaries can share their talents and what they’ve learned from this program. This will encourage and empower them to use their skills in music ministry."

The conference concluded with a commitment service, during which delegates pledged to improve the role of digital music in worship and church ministry.

By Quin Salarda
SwPUC ComDept.