First Church Music Groups
Harmony in Worship
The music program at First Church includes two handbell ensembles and three vocal groups, all of which contribute to worship services from September through early June. Most groups are directed by our Minister of Music, Shari Lucas, with the exception of the Court Street Singers.
The Handbell Groups
The handbell groups use our four octave Malmark handbells and three octave Malmark hand chimes.
Faith Ringers
Our beginner handbell group, playing level 1 repertoire – no experience required. Formed in 2022, it provides an opportunity for first time ringers and music readers to learn the play bells. Rehearsals are on Mondays nights from 6:15 p.m. until 7:15 p.m. and they play in worship once a month.
Heart in Hand Bells
Our advanced bell group playing level 2+ music. You don’t need to have rung bells before to join, but prior experience with reading music is helpful. Members have note reading skills and use a variety of bell techniques. Rehearsals are on Mondays nights from 7:30 until 8:30 p.m. and they play in worship once a month.
Our Vocal Groups
First Church Choir
The First Church Choir is our mixed SATB group that sings traditional and modern repertoire. They sing in worship on the second and fourth Sundays of the month.
Rehearsals are on Wednesday nights from 7 p.m. until 8 p.m. from September through May. The repertoire ranges from classic to contemporary anthems. First Church boasts a large library of choral anthems of all styles.
Treble Choir
The Treble Choir is our soprano/alto singing group.
They meet on Wednesday nights from 8 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. and sing in worship once a month. Rehearsals run from September through May.
Court Street Singers
The Court Street Singers are our tenor/bass group.
They meet on Wednesday nights from 6:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and sing in worship once a month. Rehearsals are from September through May.
Candlelight Music
Annual Christmas Concert
It is a long standing tradition at First Church to have a Candlelight Christmas Concert with music provided by all the First Church music groups. Traditional music mixes with Christmas readings and carols sung by the congregation to make this a highlight of our holiday season at First Church.
A Celebration of Church Music
First Church is proud of our 1968 Austin organ, opus 2483. With three manuals and 34 stops, it can easily play the breadth of organ repertoire, as well as accompany hymns and our choirs. Our recently refurbished 1919 Steinway Grand Model O is also a delight to hear in our worship services.
Inspire, Uplift, Lead.
Be a Part of Our Music Ministry
Our program plays a vital role in leading worship and enriching the spiritual life of our congregation from September through early June. We celebrate music as a powerful form of praise and community connection. If you’re called to inspire through music and foster meaningful worship experiences, we’d love to hear from you!