Music, the “language beyond words,” is an essential component of our worship here at First Parish. It supplements the Spoken Word in ways nothing else can, and over the years, the congregation, realizing this, has supported the music program of the church substantially both financially and with their time and dedication. Recognizing that music “speaks” in different ways to different people, we don’t adhere to any one type of music for worship; our services offer music from the whole spectrum of pre-baroque to modern-day “praise music.” We also schedule occasional hymn-sings to provide the opportunity for the congregation to sing their favorite hymns.
Our Sanctuary Choir is open to anybody high school age or older and sings most Sundays during the school year at the main service at 10:30 AM. Our Junior Choir, open to children from kindergarten age up, rehearses after Sunday School during the school year and sings approximately once a month and for major holidays. The church owns a very fine 3-octave set of handbells, and our Handbell Choir plays for special occasions; the hope is to eventually develop a “full-time” Handbell Choir which plays regularly for worship.
Cornerstone, our contemporary worship band, performs twice a month for the sanctuary service and can be counted on to offer new music or to provide a new spin on the classic hymns.
FPCC also hosts a free Community Messiah Sing every December to which we invite anyone interested in singing along (or listening) to Handel’s great oratorio, accompanied by a professional chamber orchestra and harpsichord/organ. As well, the Music Committee sponsors at least 2-3 other free musical events during the year to which all are invited.
For any questions about the music program at First Parish, please E-mail the Director of Music Ministries, Don Hodgkins at donhodg@aol.com.