Music Ministry

Music expresses that which can not be said and on which it is impossible to be silent. -Victor Hugo

First UMC’s music ministries work to glorify God and enliven our worship experience while ministering to the congregation in ways that provide spiritual growth, musical challenge and many opportunities for wonderful fellowship.  Director of Music Ministry, Kevin Harbison, works to create new opportunities for musicians of all levels, passions and styles.  His work alongside Liz Vancura, the Children’s Choir and Youth Bells Director, and Rhonda Ritter, our pianist, provides a unique musical experience for all who receive as well as participate.

Chancel Choir

A wonderful combination of great music and fellowship.  The Chancel Choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:30 and presents anthems during the 9am Sunday worship service from September through May.  This 4-part ensemble strives to enhance the worship experience by presenting a diverse mix of traditional and contemporary choral music, with larger works presented for Christmas and Easter.  Rehearsals are a mixture of laughter and learning, and we invite any interested singers to join us!

Chancel Bells

The Chancel Ringers is a 3-octave handbell choir that presents musical offerings generally once a month from September through May as well as during festival services.  The choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 6:15-7:15 and has performed outside of FUMC as well – most recently in concert with CU’s University Choir and in a workshop with Kevin McChesney and the Pikes Peak Ringers.  In the fall of 2010 we hope to embark on a fundraising campaign to add the fourth octave of bells to the choir.

Children’s Choir

Our Children’s choir meets from September – May at 9:20am on Sunday Morning.  All children from 2nd grade – 5th grade are invited to join us after the Children’s sermon in worship to learn fun music, explore our faith through singing, and even learn some musical skills.

Youth Bells

As the newest addition to our musical ensembles, the youth bells have added a wonderful element to our worship experience each time they play.  Rehearsals are held on Wednesday evening from 7:30 -8:30pm, and kids in 3rd grade – 8th grade are invited to join.  This group also explores faith through music, but works on musical skills such as reading music and offers a chance for the kids to explore a musical instrument.

Summer Music

As our music groups take a short break during our summers we would invite any congregation member interested in sharing their musical talents with the congregation to speak with Kevin Harbison, and sign up to offer Special Music for one of the Sunday’s over the summer.