Howard Payne University senior Katie Curry loves the opportunity to lead others in praise and worship. Since she was a high school sophomore, Katie has been involved in praise and worship bands. She has served as the HPU Chapel Band leader for the past two and a half years and is a member of Rev 38, a worship band at Southside Church.
On Saturday, April 10, Katie will have a unique opportunity to perform her debut concert during the 15th annual HPU Fest. Taking the stage at 6:15 p.m., she will perform a set of eight songs, including two of her original works.
HPU junior Austin Smith said, “Not only does Katie have an amazing voice, but she is also able to be genuine.”
Her original song, “Glory,” was inspired by personal struggles with pride.
“This song is about giving God the glory for everything in my life, because He is the only one who deserves it,” she said.
The second song Katie wrote and will perform comes from Psalm 51.
“Psalm 51 is one of my favorite passages,” she said. “There is so much that really resonates with me, especially verse 12 where it says, ‘restore to me the joy of your salvation.’ We can forget how amazing it is that God is saving us and only He can bring that joy.”
The additional songs she will perform were written by Christian artists who have inspired her, including Christy Nockels, Kari Job, Bethany Dillon and Switchfoot.
Her band members include HPU students Kris Redus on drums and Grant Newman on keyboard, and Brownwood native Jonathan Dunlap on acoustic guitar.
Immediately following Katie’s set, contemporary Christian artist Ben Rector will perform, followed later that evening by headliner Jimmy Needham.
“It is truly humbling to be on the line-up with such talented artists,” Katie said. “I know I don’t deserve it, but I am honored to be a part of such a great day.”
HPU Fest is an all-day, free Christian concert beginning at 3 p.m. in Old Main Park on the university’s campus. Additional performers include Chronic Frailty, Rise to the Challenge, Miranda Dodson, HPU Vinyl Club, the Justin Cofield Band, One Less Stone, Jason Gray and Echoing Angels.
Katie is majoring in practical theology with a minor in music. She is a native of Farmington, New Mexico, and will graduate in May. Following graduation, Katie would like to work as a worship leader on a church staff.
“Singing is a gift that God has given me, and I was taught from a young age that when God gives you talents, you are supposed to use them to glorify Him,” she said. “The great thing about God calling me to lead worship is that I get to use this gift for the rest of my life. I am excited to see what He has in store for me.”
