Music at First Congregational Church is a vital part of our ministry. We enjoy one of the richest programs in Chicagoland fueled by the many talented volunteers in our congregation. No matter what your experience is we would love to have you participate in our music program. Please contact Ryan Cox to become involved!
Chancel Choir: The Chancel Choir is looking forward to another wonderful year of making music together with great music and fellowship. Our first Sunday is Kick-off Sunday on September 9th. The rehearsal format will see two changes this year. First of all, rehearsals will be from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. on Thursdays starting August 30th. Second of all, continue to the Festival Choir article.
Festival Choir: Each year the Chancel Choir has done at least two pieces with orchestra – the December Choral Sermon and a spring cantata or concert. In the past, these pieces were integrated into the Chancel Choir rehearsal. The same will hold true for this year, however, the large works will always be rehearsed from 7:30 – 8:30 p.m., starting September 6th. This is a great opportunity for Sunday school teachers and shepherds as well as others who can’t sing regularly on Sunday morning to be able to add their gifts to a couple of wonderful services each year (and hopefully more). Many of you also have friends who like to sing who are not regular FCC attendees. They are welcome too! Invite as many as you can so we can make an even more joyful noise. Again high school age and up are welcome.
Carillon Handbell Choir: Carillon Handbell Choir rehearsal will start on Wednesday, September 5th from 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. Please consider joining this really fun group. We also need some help! Two of our very talented ringers will be in college in the fall and they covered a lot of bells. If you have never rung before or not for a while, Ryan can give lessons so you can hit the ground running with the ensemble. Please let Ryan know if you are interested. Also see below.
Adult Beginner Ringers: Many of you have probably sat in the congregation listening to the Carillon Handbell Choir and said: “I can’t do that!” We.., now you can. If you would like to learn to ring bells or would like to get back into it but don’t want any pressure, please contact Ryan Cox to set up a rehearsal schedule. This could also be a separate choir if there is enough interest. Rehearsal can be flexible – late morning/early afternoon as well as late afternoon.
Children/Youth Choir: When children participate in worship, a sense of joy is felt by all. This is especially true when children sing. I truly believe that every child should learn to sing the songs of the church – hymns, biblical songs and celebratory anthems. If they don’t, what will we be able to sing together when they are adults?
The Children’s Choir will consist of K – 4th grades and will rehearse on Sundays from 12:00 – 12:35p.m. starting September 17th. Children and youth from 5th – 12th grades are wanted and needed to be big brothers/sisters to our younger singers. The older children will also rehearse on Sundays from 12:00 – 12:50 p.m., with the last 25 minutes spent on music tailored to their ages. Please contact Ryan Cox for more information.
Plymouth Handbell Choir: Last year we were small, but mighty. This year we would love some new ringers to help play some bigger songs in worship. We will rehearse on Wednesdays starting September 20th from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. If you’ve never rung before, that’s ok. There is a new ringer’s class from 3:30 – 4:00 p.m., also on Wednesdays. Please contact Ryan Cox for more information.
Miscellaneous Music: I am always looking for ways to enrich our music with the talent that is in our congregation. Adults and children alike – if you would like to play or sing in an ensemble or as a soloist this year, please let Ryan know.
Classes for children ages 1 - 5 years are being offered at First Conservatory of Music at the First Congregational Church of LaGrange. The classes are held either Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday mornings. For more information on curricula, times and costs please contact Kindermusik educator and director, Joan Burke, by calling the Conservatory voicemail at 708-352-8843. For more information on this program at First Congregational Church of LaGrange, click here. Visit the Kindermusik website at www.kindermusik.com for everything you want to know about this highly regarded music program for encouraging the development of young children.