Director Resigns Over Administration Cowardice

From the month-old news department:

A complaint that the music at Monroe County Community College's commencement ceremony was too religious has led to the resignation of the school's music director.

John Tyner, 59, submitted a single-line resignation letter to the college after he said decisions were made without his input about the type of music that can and cannot be performed at the ceremony.

"This is another example of how our country is acquiescing to a minority," he said. "I'm not teaching religion. I'm teaching the history of choral music."

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But MCCC President Dr. David E. Nixon said efforts must be made to keep church and state separate at school-sponsored functions. So when a person complained about the songs performed at the commencement ceremonies being too heavily religious, decisions had to be made.

Dr. Nixon said he consulted the school's attorney, who suggested the college choose from a list of "approved sacred songs," such as "Battle Hymn of the Republic."

Editor's reminder, v. 3:
In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea, With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me: As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free, While God is marching on.

At the commencement ceremony in May the chorale, under Mr. Tyner's direction, sang "Soon and Very Soon," and "To Everything There Is a Season," which was made popular by the pop band The rds, who performed it under the name "Turn, Turn, Turn."

Both songs, which were selected by the students, have references to God, Jesus and Heaven. Someone made a complaint that they were too religious and Dr. Nixon felt the school had to act.

"This is very serious," he said. "We had to address it. All it takes is one lawsuit."

It was the second time in the last year or two that a complaint was made about sacred music being performed at the public college. Mr. Tyner said he and Dr. Nixon agreed the first time to address the issue if it became a problem.

What prompted the resignation, he said, was that decisions were made about what music should be performed without his contribution. He was disappointed that Dr. Nixon did not consult with him about the changes.

"Instead he went to an attorney," Mr. Tyner said. "He didn't even discuss it with me. He had no contact with me whatsoever. I don't need this frustration."

Dr. Nixon said he simply contacted the attorney for a legal opinion to protect the college from a lawsuit. He said he was surprised there was no explanation included with the resignation letter that amounted to one or two sentences.

He said it was unfortunate that a select few forced a decision that affects many. Sacred text is found in the vast majority of lyrics and the Supreme Court ruled it can be taught without perpetuating religion, Mr. Tyner said.

He added it would be difficult to effectively teach music with such shortcomings, and limiting the choices for commencement songs would eliminate a vast array of beautiful music.

"Maybe I could do Disney themes," he said.

Full story here.