Music Ministries

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 forty 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.

Chancel

The Chancel Choir rehearses each Wednesday from 6:30-8:30pm. The choir leads worship each Sunday at the 11:00 am traditional service. 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

Fourth Street Sound rehearses each Thursday from 6:30-8:30pm. This choir leads worship each Sunday at the 8:30 am contemporary service. Repertoire emphasis is on contemporary Christian and gospel music. Some special staging is designed for this ensemble at various times.

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, a fine ensemble of long-standing tradition at First UMC, participates in the 11:00 am 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 every Wednesday at 8:30pm.

New ensembles of woodwinds and strings are planned for the future, as participants become known.

Youth Choir

The Youth Choir is comprised of young people from grades six through twelve. This choir rehearses each Sunday from 3:00-4:00pm (and at other times as announced). All young people of this age are invited to discover their true voice, experience creative and dramatic activities, increase musical skills, prepare and present special music for worship, and participate in other special events and concerts throughout the year. The Youth Choir prepares and presents a "musical" that is taken on the Youth Music and Mission trips in the summer.

Children’s Choirs

A graded children’s choir program is a vital and important part of the music ministry of First UMC. The various choirs, in addition to developing musical skills, participate in Sunday worship services at various times throughout the year. Rehearsals of all children’s choirs take place each Sunday from 9:30 - 10:50 am during the Sunday School hour.

Youth and Children’s Choirs are offered throughout the school year, September - May.