Kurt Kaiser

Kurt Kaiser: Icon and Conscience of Contemporary Christian Music is a welcome--and long overdue--addition to the scholarship of sacred music in the twentieth century. Kaiser's towering influence on the music of the Church, not just CCM, is gracefully acknowledged and chronicled in his friend Terry W. York's biography. Future music historians will note that this was only the first book to attempt to understand Kaiser’s genius.

~Robert F. Darden, Emeritus Professor, Baylor University

Terry York, in his book, Kurt Kaiser: Icon and Conscience of Contemporary Christian Music, pulls back the veil to reveal an intimate and profound look at this musical giant. York’s exhaustive research and personal friendship with Kaiser, combined with his masterful storytelling skills provide a portrait of man who is humble, faithful to God’s call on his life and blessed with genius. York’s brilliant text is an important history of a man who changed the course of contemporary Christian music.

~Mark Hayes, Composer, Arranger, Concert Pianist

For all who cherish sacred music in its various expressions, Terry W. York's new book on the life and work of Kurt Kaiser is a gift and inspiration. A pioneer in the field of Contemporary Christian Music, Kaiser's work as a pianist, composer, arranger, and producer has impacted generations of musicians and worshippers. Best known for his groundbreaking worship songs, 'Oh, How He Loves You and Me' and 'Pass It On,' and youth musicals 'Tell It Like It Is' and 'Good News,' Kaiser's influence and contribution to the worship life of the Christian church are legendary. What I find most inspiring is York's thoughtful exposition of Kurt Kaiser as the man behind the music. In Kaiser's own words, 'Look what God can do if we simply turn our gifts over to him.'

~Allen Hightower, D.M.A., Director of Choral Studies, University of North Texas