From Printing to Recording

How, though, did the Watchtower Society​—well known for its printing operations—​become involved in making sound recordings? In 1966 the Society arranged for a costumed Bible drama to be presented at its yearly district conventions. This dramatic portrayal of ancient Bible events was so well received that similar presentations became regular features at these conventions.

Back then, the first Bible dramas were presented live. Later, it was decided that prerecorded tapes could be produced to add music and sound effects to the presentations. Thus, the actors on stage would simply mime the voices already recorded on tape. The Society had its large headquarters staff at Brooklyn to draw from to provide actors and technicians, and a recording studio was established. But when the decision was later made to produce original music for these dramas, a new challenge presented itself.

Assembling an Orchestra

A search began for composers and musicians among Jehovah’s Witnesses in North America who would be willing to donate their time and talents to producing Christian music. Over the years, the Watchtower orchestra has grown to nearly symphonic proportions​—60 to 70 volunteers. Quite a few among them are professional musicians. However, they will tell you what their primary profession is. David has played cello with the Denver symphony orchestra for several years. His view of the music industry has been affected by the truth of God’s Word. He expressed it this way: “I have scaled down my personal ambition and desire for advancement in the music world. I am glad to support my family as a musician and also have time to engage in the full-time ministry.”

John’s view also has, as he put it, “changed dramatically. Although I was still working on Broadway as a bassist when I was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, I began to see that it was hard to balance my love for Jehovah and my love for music. I found the music industry to be a master. I could not give my whole soul to Jehovah in the preaching work when I knew I had to play music at night. There are too many opportunities to compromise our faith. So I started in the full-time ministry.”

Nearly 50 of the participants in the Society’s music recording projects, including music copyists and technicians, serve in local congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses as elders or ministerial servants. About 35 are able to devote their full time to the ministry, including service at Brooklyn Bethel and Watchtower Farms.

Dramas and Bible Readings

The voices for the Bible dramas are recorded in the Society’s studios. Members of the Brooklyn headquarters staff serve as actors and actresses. Drama scenes are recorded separately and then edited together. Finally, sound effects and music are added.