Music Ministry

Organ

First’s 26-rank Holtkamp pipe organ was installed in 1985 and refurbished in 2018. This lovely organ is played for every worship service. Guest organ recitals are given annually, often by American Guild of Organists’ National Competition winners. FPC’s organist, Janice Robison, performs recitals several times throughout the year including Christmas, Lent, and during the summer.

Chancel Choir

The Chancel Choir is made up of church members, as well as section leaders and soloists from Ohio University and the Athens community. Dr. David Tadlock is the choir director. Rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings from 7 – 8:30 p.m. in the sanctuary and on Sunday mornings at 9:45 a.m. in the choir room. All are invited to join the Chancel Choir which sings weekly for worship services during the academic year.

Handbell Choir

The Handbell Choir rehearses weekly from 6 – 7 p.m. in the overflow area of the Sanctuary. The ensemble plays during worship services about once a month during the academic year. The choir explores repertoir composed specifically for handbell ensembles, and experiments with creatively integrating bells into worship. All levels of skill and experience are welcome. The handbell director is Tyler Thress. 

Special Music Sundays

FPC welcomes guest musicians to weekly worship services during summer months and at special times throughout the church year. The second Sunday of Advent is the annual Christmas Music Service and Christmas Eve is a service of Lessons and Carols. The Ohio Brass, Ohio University’s Faculty Brass Quintet, join the Chancel Choir, Organ, and Handbell Choir every Easter to enrich worship and proclaim God’s glory.

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