First Presbyterian Church, Evanston: Chancel Choir & Orchestra (Choir & Orchestra)

Founded: Evanston, Illinois, USA

Music

There is a rich heritage of music at First Presbyterian Church of Evanston. Music is considered an important part of worship; it is often through music that people can most easily respond to God's call on their lives. Vibrant congregational singing is a priority, and within our blended format opportunities abound for singers and instrumentalists to contribute their gifts in worship.

The Chancel Choir and Worship Band offer their leadership in worship weekly. The Children's Choir joins them in worship six times a year. The Chancel Orchestra leads in worship several times a year. Four handbell choirs alternately play in services five to eight times a year. And on a regular basis, worship is also enhanced by organ, percussion, piano, keyboard, trumpet, and various other instruments.

Chancel Choir

The Chancel Choir is comprised of adults who, having a musical gift of singing, desire to use that gift in worship leadership. Rehearsals are Thursday evenings from 7:30-9:30 PM from September through May, and on Sunday mornings at 9:00 in June and July.

In addition to leading the congregation in hymns and songs, they present two anthems each week. The choir sings a wide spectrum of anthems, from classics to spirituals, from gospel to contemporary offerings. In addition to weekly contributions at worship services, the Chancel Choir, enhanced by additional singers from the congregation, presents two concerts a year with orchestra. These concerts, one in December and the other in the spring, feature major choral works.

Chancel Orchestra

The Chancel Orchestra is comprised of 35-40 instrumentalists from high school age through adults. They play in worship, leading the congregation in hymns and songs as well as playing prelude and postlude, six to eight times a year. Rehearsals are Sunday morning at 8:00 just prior to the services for which they play.

Sources:
First Presbyterian Church of Evanston, IL (version of February 5, 2005 from the Internet Archive)
Bits & pieces from other sources
Contributed by Aryeh Oron (August 2024)

Daniel D. Russell: Short Biography | Ensembles: First Presbyterian Church, Evanston: Chancel Choir & Orchestra
Bach Discography: Recordings of Vocal Works

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