A new season of music is beginning at First Christian Church of Stow—and there may be a place in it for you! Whether you love to sing, have always wanted to try handbells, play an instrument, or simply miss the joy of making music with other people, we invite you to come and join us. Our music ministry includes opportunities for children, youth, and adults, from beginners to experienced musicians, and you don’t have to be a church member to participate. As rehearsals begin for the fall season, this is a wonderful time to come to a rehearsal, meet some new people, and discover where your own musical gifts might fit.
Use what talents you possess;
the woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best.
Henry van Dyke (1852-1933)
At First Christian Church, we believe music is something to participate in, not simply something to listen to. Here are some of the ways you can make music with us this year.
If you see a group that interests you, we welcome you to talk with Ralph, Cheryl, Cora, Barb E, or Scott – or maybe ask someone in the group what it’s like. For the open groups, you’re also welcome to come to a rehearsal and see for yourself what it’s like, with no obligation. There is a place for everyone!
Choral Groups
Chancel Choir (open to all singers, high school juniors through centenarians!) rehearses Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. in the Choir Room. Ralph is the director.
Grace Notes (middle school and high school girls) rehearse at 10:15 Sunday mornings in the Chapel. Cora Dowey directs Grace Notes.
Children’s Choir (age 3 through 5th grade) meets during worship in the Choir Room; Cora Dowey directs the children’s choir.
Silent Praise (adults; children are welcome accompanied by an adult) – We use American Sign Language to express music. We rehearse as needed, and anyone can learn! Cheryl leads this group.
Spiritus is an adult vocal ensemble that requires a certain skill level. They meet most Sundays at 9:15 a.m. in the Choir Room, led by Ralph and Cheryl.
The Good News Quartet meets periodically to sing four-part harmony.
Handbell Ensembles
Joyful Noise (beginning/intermediate handbell ensemble) meets Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. in Room 201. Director Barb Eppley invites anyone and everyone who wants to learn to play handbells to join us!
Youth Bells (grade school through high school) meet most Sundays after worship, in the balcony. Ralph is the director.
Joy Bells (advanced adult handbell ensemble) meet Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. in the balcony; Ralph is the director.
Instrumental Ensembles
Resurrection Brass rehearses as needed. Scott Haywood is the leader.
The Way is our worship band, which includes guitar, bass, percussion, and keyboards. Ralph is the director.
The FCC Orchestra is open to any instrumentalist (of any age) who can play at the level of a hymn. They play for special services and rehearse as needed.
You don’t have to be the best singer in the room, an accomplished instrumentalist, or an experienced handbell ringer to have something meaningful to contribute. Music is meant to be shared—and sometimes the hardest part is simply deciding to give it a try. So if one of these groups sounds interesting, come to a rehearsal, introduce yourself, and make some music with us. There is a place for you at First Christian Church of Stow.