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CONGREGATIONAL LIFE• Adult Programs home See also Admin and Religious Education for more Service opportunities Rowdy Chat Listserv |
CHOIR and MUSIC PROGRAM
MUSIC at UUCE
Music at UUCE plays a vital role in the ministry of the church. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to participate in this fun and supportive program. As a singer, you may join one of our choirs. As a pianist or instrumentalist, there are a variety of opportunities for you to share your talent. Musicians and non-musicians alike are invited to become involved in our dynamic Music Committee. And for those of you who prefer to listen, you fill a most important role, that of an appreciative supporter. Rehearsals begin in September and continue through early June. If you are interested in participating in our music program, or would like further information, please contact Music Director, Tom Sears at 686-5972 or tesears@comcast.net.
Music Staff
Music Director, Tom Sears, came to UUCE in 1994 when the choir was 10 voices strong. Since then Tom has helped develop the music program to include a 40 voice Sanctuary Choir, the 12 voice Chamber Singers, and the women’s Chalice Choir.
Lynn Smith is the Accompanist for the Sanctuary Choir and our Sunday pianist. An accomplished musician, Lynn has experience in both instrumental and vocal music. She is a Middle School music teacher in the Springfield School District and joined the UUCE staff in 2001. 
Sanctuary Choir
The Sanctuary Choir is open to all members and friends of the church who enjoy singing and who can offer a high level of commitment to the choir schedule. Although prior musical training is an asset, it is not a requirement. From September 5 through early June, the SC provides a varied and colorful blend of music at both the 9:00 and 11:00 o’clock services two Sunday mornings each month. The year includes Music Sunday in December, a Music Soiree in March and culminates with a Spring Concert in June. Rehearsals are Wednesdays from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
Chalice Choir
The women’s Chalice Choir is for those who want to sing together under a less demanding schedule than the Sanctuary Choir. This is a great place to get started in choral singing. Here, we focus on the elements of singing beginning with simple anthems and rounds. Rehearsals are Mondays from 7:00-8:30pm in the Sanctuary. We skip the first Monday of the month.
Chamber Singers
The UUCE Chamber Singers is an auditioned group of 12 vocalists exploring a cappella music of the Renaissance and contemporary anthems. In addition to singing for occasional Sunday services, the group presents a concert in December and sings for community gatherings outside the church. Rehearsals are Wednesdays, 5:15-6:45 p.m., beginning Sept. 12.
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Music Committee
The Music Committee will be composed of between 5-8 members or friends of the church. Members are non-elected persons serving one-year renewable terms. Although choir members offer a likely pool of candidates, an equal representation of congregants should be sought. The committee meets nearly once a month between September and June to discuss issues pertinent to the Music Program.
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1) supporting the Music Program by: a) offering constructive feedback on decisions considered by the Music Director, b) suggesting ways in which to build on the health and reach of the program
2) helping coordinate and produce special music events, i.e.: concerts, soirees
3) undertaking special fundraising projects that benefit the musical life of the church, i.e.: raise money to purchase hymnals, instruments, piano covers, etc.
4) making recommendations to the Board, in conjunction with the Music Director, regarding the Music Program budget
5) making available to the congregation a brochure providing information about the music program
6) assisting in the process of hiring music staff
7) advocating for the Music Director when appropriate
FAQ
How may I join the choir?
Openings for new members are in September and January. During those months you may attend an evening rehearsal or call Tom Sears if you have specific questions.
I play a musical instrument. How might I volunteer my services as musician for Sunday services?
Call Tom Sears to let him know your interest. He schedules instrumentalists for the Sundays when the choir is not performing.
I’m not musical but wish to support the Music Program. How might I do this?
- • You can join the Music Committee and help organize musical programs (food, seating, tickets, etc.) and help determine how best to invest in the Music Program.
• You can volunteer to help at the Soiree, the Spring Concert, the Holiday Concerts in December, and for other music related programs.
• Attend church on Sundays and enjoy the choir and guest instrumentalists performances.
Contact Information
- Tom Sears, Music Director
tesears@comcast.net
686-5972
Lynn Smith, Accompanist and Spirit Choir
other33@earthlink.net
933-1505