Music Ministry
“…be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart, always and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father.” Ephesians 5: 18-20
The primary purpose of the Music Ministry at First Presbyterian Church is to provide musical leadership in worship, better enabling the congregation, the great choir, to make a joyful noise to the Lord. In addition the choirs, soloists, instrumentalists and ensembles provide anthems, introits, responses, descants, and a wide variety of service music and major works which not only affirm our own reformed liturgical heritage but also embrace expressions of other Christian traditions in spiritually enriching our worship.
The Chancel Choir…..
….is primarily responsible for leading worship at the 11 am Sunday services and those special services throughout the liturgical calendar such as Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, and Holy Week. An ability to read music is helpful but not required for those high school age and up who wish to participate. What is necessary is a commitment to the ministry as such, faithful attendance at rehearsals and services, and, most important, an understanding that membership in the Choir is a calling from God to minister to His people. The Chancel Choir rehearses Wednesday evenings from 7pm until 8:30 pm and Sunday mornings from 10:30 am until 10:55 am. The Choir also enjoys occasional retreats, dinners and fellowship opportunities.
Soloists and Instrumentalists….
….frequently add vocal solos, sung psalms, instrumental solos and choral accompaniment. While those are most often by members of the choir, those who feel called to this ministry and who are not choir members are welcome and encouraged to add their talents as they are able.
Handbell Ringers….
….on special occasions add instrumental selections or choral accompaniment with the exuberance of handbell music. Rehearsals are on an ad hoc basis as announced. Previous music reading ability is helpful, but not required for this intergenerational ensemble. Because of the interdependence of each ringer’s part, faithful attendance is necessary at rehearsals and performances.
The Chorister’s Prayer