Music
First Presbyterian Church of Wilmette strives to offer the very best in worship music, but that’s not our only goal. The spirit of participation is central to our music ministry. The Bible tells us to sing and make a joyful noise in praising God, and that means all of God’s people. If you are interested in making a joyful noise, you’ll be warmly welcomed by Peggy Massello, the talented musician behind the organ and director of Music Ministries. There’s place for everyone in one or more of our music groups, whether you’d like to participate with your family or on your own. All it takes is a love of music and a desire to serve the church--everyone is welcome!
Chancel Choir
The Chancel Choir sings weekly at the 10:00 worship service. The choir leads the congregation in singing hymns and responses, and offers one or two anthems during the service.
A variety of musical styles are represented in the repertoire of this group, ranging from early music to gospel. Rehearsals are Wednesday nights from 7:30-9:00 in the music room on the lower level of the church.
Singers and Ringers
Children and youth can participate in this Thursday evening, after-school music program, which meets as follows:
4:30-5:15 Fourth and fifth graders sing and ring. Children learn how to ring handbells and learn basic music skills. The group sings or rings on Family Worship Sundays, about every 6 weeks.
5:15-6:00 First through third-graders learn a variety of songs, from fun camp tunes to anthems. Singers learn how to find and use their voices and understand basic music skills. Rhythm instruments are a big favorite!
6:00-6:45 Church Family Dinner. All are invited to join this delightful time of food and fellowship. Suggested donation is $6 per adult and $4 per child. Please RSVP to Peggy Massello by Wednesday at pmassello@fpc-wilmette.org.
6:45-7:30 Sixth through eighth graders sing and ring. Youth in this group learn a variety of choral and bell music pieces representing a wide range of musical styles. No prior experience is needed for ringing.
7:00-8:00 Senior High Bells
Letter to parents click here
To register for Singers and Ringers click here
To view the S & R brochure click here
Senior High Bells
The high school bell choir rehearses and rings in worship periodically throughout the school year. No prior ringing experience is necessary to join. Occasionally, the Chancel Bells and Senior High Bells pair up to do some particularly challenging pieces!
Chancel Bells
If you can count to six and can tell the difference between a line and a space, you’re on your way! No experience is necessary to join the adult hand bell choir. The Chancel Bell Choir chimes during Sunday worship about six times per program year. Rehearsals begin about 6 weeks before each of the six Sundays. Ringers can choose to participate year-round or simply join in one or more sessions throughout the year.
Instrumentalists
Whether solo or as part of a small ensemble, instrumentalists add variety and inspiration to our worship music. Those who are interested in participating are encouraged to contact Peggy Massello.