"Music is a fair and glorious gift of God." So believed Martin Luther. We at First Church agree, and we seek constantly for ways in which God's gift can be used to deepen and enrich our lives together. From the earliest nursery songs to the powerful hymns of a memorial service, music adds immeasurably to our spiritual life.
 

"Senior Choir"

For this purpose we have two vocal choirs: the Celebration Singers (an intergenerational choir that sings mostly gospel and contemporary works) and the Senior Choir (an excellent volunteer choir that sings serious works ranging from medieval through modern - read below* about their recent recording). We also have the Heart in Hand Bell Choir. All choirs participate in the worship services and in occasional special events, including the annual Christmas concert. We also benefit from the talents of individuals, either soloists or instrumentalists. Our organ is a 1969 Austin pipe organ of three manuals and 37 ranks.
 

"Celebration Singers"

Rehearsal times are as follows:

Celebration Singers - Mondays, 6:15 - 7:15 PM
Senior Choir - Wednesdays, 7:30 - 8:45 PM
Heart in Hand Bell Choir - Mondays, 7:30 - 8:45 PM
African Drumming Group - Monday evenings at 6:15 or 7:30.

We are a congregation that loves to sing. Hymns are carefully selected, with attention given to melody, text, theme of the service, issues of inclusive language, and familiarity, so that our singing will help the spirit soar in our midst. Sometimes, worship services feature hymn singing or choral anthems as the main expression of God's word for that day.

"Heart In Hand Bell Choir"

Our African Drumming Ensemble was added in 2004. First Church owns a number of African instruments including a number of djembes, two doun douns, a krin and other various rhythmic instruments. The groups focuses on rhythms from Guinea in West Africa.

"African Drumming Ensemble"

* In 1997, under the direction of former organist and choir director Solveig Solem, the Senior Choir recorded its first compact disk (CD), entitled "Sing Praises". The eighteen selections include works by Scarlatti, Herbert Howells, J.S. Bach, Randall Thompson, Mendelssohn, Brahms, Grieg, Billings, John Rutter, and others. Choral works are augmented by vocal and flute soloists, a bell choir, and a brass ensemble. Copies of the CD are available in the church office.

"Hallelujah Chorus"