"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 two bell choirs (one practices in the daytime, the other in the evening). 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
Charlie's Angels Bell Choir - Mondays, 11 AM - Noon
Heart in Hand Bell Choir - Mondays, 7:30 - 8:45 PM
African Drumming Group - Monday evenings at 6:15 or 7:30.

"Junior Choir"

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. Each year several worship services feature hymn singing or choral anthems as the main expression of God's word for that day.

"Heart In Hand Bell Choir"

* In 1997, under the direction of 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"
 

The mission of First Church is to engage and support people in worship, learning, fellowship, and service, so that all may find in our community the Spirit of the living Christ.  We are an Open and Affirming Church: All are welcome into the full life of our community regardless of their race, age, gender, nationality, marital status, economic situation, mental or physical ability, or sexual orientation.