Music, that God-given gift, finds its richest expression in Christian worship. The Christian faith sings because it has the most beautiful and substantive message entrusted by God to people, namely, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Consider using your God-given gift of music through the ministry of music at First UMC. We are blessed with many opportunities to serve in the music ministry. Know that you are welcome to participate.
The Ministry of Music has enjoyed a long, outstanding tradition and reputation. Established over fifty years ago by the late Harry Hook, music at First UMC is known throughout Methodism in the United States for its excellence and opportunity. The tradition that was established many years ago continues today.
Opportunities to present the great choral/orchestral works from throughout history utilizing orchestras and soloists from the church's music ministry, etc., continue today. As new forms of worship have evolved, First UMC has expanded its music ministry of excellence to worship in the 21st Century as well.
Opportunities for vocal and instrumental solo and ensemble expression abound at First UMC. Do consider joining us in one of Methodism's best-known and respected ministries through music. We would be blessed by your company.
Music Ministry Information Booklet
Adult Music Ministries
Chancel Choir
The Chancel Choir
rehearses Wednesdays from 6:30-8:30 pm. The choir leads worship each
Sunday at the Traditional service at 11:00am under the leadership of
our Music Director, John Clark. The repertoire includes the great
sacred choral literature of the past and present. During the year this
choir prepares and presents various major works, often with orchestra
and other instrumental ensembles. The Chancel Choir has been the
foundation of the First UMC Ministry of Music for more than forty years.
4th Street Sound
4th Street Sound
rehearses Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30 pm. This choir, directed by Lissa
Clark, leads our Contemporary worship each Sunday at 8:30am. Repertoire
emphasis is on contemporary Christian and gospel music. Special staging
is designed for this ensemble at various times. For more information,
call (505 243 5646, X18) or email Lissa Clark.
Instrumental Ensembles
First UMC
seeks to provide church musicians with opportunities to play for the
glory of God. Instrumentalists at all proficiency levels are encouraged
to consult with the Music Ministry staff about placement in an ensemble
or for solo instrumental work.
First Brass
This fine ensemble of
long-standing tradition at First UMC participates in the Traditional
worship service each Sunday plus other special events and concerts.
Music for this ensemble is composed and arranged by the church’s music
staff and the great brass composers. Rehearsals are held Wednesdays at
8:30pm, September - June.
Jubilee Ringers
This adult hand
bell choir is made up of people with a wide range of musical skills and
knowledge. They rehearse Sunday evenings from 5:30 – 6:30pm in the
Sanctuary. They perform in Sunday worship services once a month as well
as for special events and concerts throughout the year. For more
information, call (243 5646 x15) or email Becky Talbott, Assistant Director of Music.
Youth Choirs
Mid High & Senior High
The
mid-high choir, comprised of students in grades 6, 7, and 8, rehearses
Sunday afternoons at 3:30pm. The senior-high choir, comprised of
students in grades 9 through 12, rehearses on Sunday afternoons at 4:45.
These choirs learn music from a variety of styles and time periods while expanding their musical skills. They prepare music that is shared in both the Contemporary and Traditional Worship services at least once a month. They participate in other special events and concerts throughout the year as well outreach events at local nursing homes and other facilities. They also prepare a Musical Worship Service that is performed at the Youth Music and Mission Trips in the summer.
Youth choirs meet Sunday in room 214 during the
school year but follow a modified schedule in the summer. Contact Becky
Talbott for more information.
Children’s Choirs
A graded children’s choir program is a vital and important part of the music ministry at First United Methodist Church. The various choirs, in addition to developing music skills, participate in Sunday worship service throughout the year. Contact Becky Talbott for more information. Children’s Choirs are offered during the school year, mid-August – May.
Cherub Choir - 3 & 4 year olds
Sundays * 9:40 - 10:00am * Room 110
Carol Choir - Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
Sundays * 9:00 – 9:35am * Room 211
Celebration Singers - 3rd – 5th Grade