Jonte’ Moore

St. Stephen has been blessed with great musical talent for many years; the names Althea Reed, John Nickens, Phillip Kimble and Bobby Laird are just a few who quickly come to mind. But the time has come to add the name of Jonte’ Moore to this group of talented musicians.  Since his high school graduation six months ago he has quickly become recognized as a fabulous musician and choir leader here at St. Stephen.

For Young Adult Day, 2004 Jonte’ has been giving the great task of teaching the Sanctuary choir the music to be performed on that day. The musical selections promise to have everyone clapping their hands and stomping their feet to the beat of traditional and contemporary styles of music. Jonte’ who is a freshman at Azusa Pacific University plans to pursue a career in Piano Performance and if you have heard him you know that he is well on the way to making his dream come true.

How long have you played the piano?

I’ve played classical music for almost 15 years and I have played for St.Stephen for 8 years.

When did you decide to pursue piano as a career choice?

During my senior year of high school I began to focus on piano.  It was then that I decided to dedicate more time to piano and make it a first priority in my life.

Your father, Dr. Rudolph has been a musician at St. Step hen's for many years. How has this had an impact on you as a musician?

My dad has shown me through his leadership and experience the discipline and dedication it takes to grow in this craft.  My dad started me in music at an early age and he helped me to learn how to be a good musician as well as how to polish my performances.  “I was basically acting like a sponge.”

What do you like most about playing the piano?

I like being able to inspire others with my ability to play. I also like to show others the talent that God has given me.  I always play for God but I also like to entertain people.

Who do you consider to be your role model?

My dad is my role model. As I grew up I played just like my dad. As I got older I began to develop my own style but my dad continues to support me. Although my dad likes traditional music he supports my desire to use contemporary music.  I guess you could say that he is open to understanding my point of view.

As a Young Adult Christian in a time when the world believes that anything goes, what advice would you give others who want to pursue a career in the music industry?

First, I believe the music is the thing that pulls you away. When you begin to try to please the world your music becomes secular.  Then you begin to think of the music and the money. My advice is not to let the music take over. I had many opportunities to play events outside of St. Stephen and each time I must remember who I play for and who gave me the talent that I have.

You are currently working with the Male and Sanctuary Choir’s is their a connection and or difference between the two?

The most obvious difference between the two choirs is the sound which is mainly due to the size. Another difference is the style of music that they sing. The Male Chorus sings mainly traditional music and the Sanctuary Choir gives me a chance to work contemporary style music.  I think the choirs are alike because all of the members make an effort to practice and are dedicated to the ministries.

As you prepare the Sanctuary Choir for YA Day 2004, what has influenced your selection of music the choir will sing?

The songs that I picked are songs that stick with me.  The words must have meaning to God. For example, I’m Coming Out by Doreenda Clark it talks about trials being a test and that with God we will make it through all of our trials.  I go through all types of situations and I try not to take conflict too heavy. There always seems to be jealousy or people who want to put me down. I try to look for something positive in every problem that I face. All the songs that the choir will sing have a message that will hopefully comfort and encourage everyone that hears them.

Lastly, what characteristics are you looking for in a woman?

First anyone that I date must be a Christian.  She must be willing to accept me for who I am.  I also want a woman who is patient and won’t try to pressure me to move the relationship too fast.  Finally, I want to be friends.

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