I will sing & make music to the Lord" Ps. 27:6 

First United Methodist enjoys a rich and varied music ministry with many opportunities.  Under the direction of Brett Miller, Music Director, and Jessica Scott, Organist, the many volunteers make First Church's music ministry truly something special.

The Music Ministry of First United Methodist is a long-established means of using the spiritual gifts and talents that have been given to us, not for our own glory, but for the praise of God and the building of God's kingdom. Nearly 25% of our congregation participates in one or more of the ensembles.

 The Music Ministry programs all share these goals:

1. 1. To give of time and talent to develop our skills, that the songs we offer are our best gifts.
   2. To share the fruits of these efforts with both the current membership and the community beyond, not to be praised, but to direct praise to God.
   3. To prayerfully and intelligently explore many wonderful styles and types of sacred music, modeling the desire for diversity within our church.
   4. To cherish both the 'head' and the 'heart' of sacred music, acknowledging that this art has powerful ability to speak to both our intellect and our spirits. We seek to choose texts and tunes that have integrity, theologically and musically.

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HeartSong:  our small ensemble of adults dedicated to singing contemporary sacred music --- folk, praise, gospel, and global. They practice monthly and sing in worship every 4 to 6 weeks.

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Chancel Choir:  the main adult choir of First Church, leading the congregation in worship throughout the year. Weekly rehearsals are held Sunday morning before worship. The Chancel Choir also participates in special services and concerts at First Church and beyond.
Family Choir (children & adults)  has been the "norm" during pandemic periods

First Church Handbells:

Led by Music Director Emeritus

(Don Gardner - Volunteer status)

 12 member adult handbell choir, rehearsing weekly and performing in worship every 3 to 4 weeks as well as on major holy days. Ringers in this ensemble must have basic music reading skills.

Madrigal Singers - Led by Don Gardner, Music Director Emeritus

Link to Madrigal News

Link to Clarksburg Madrigals - "My Home among the Hills" (EW James)