Existing music programs at our church

This is the information about our existing music program contained here on the church website:

“…music is about as physical as it gets; your essential rhythm is your heartbeat; your essential sound, the breath. We’re walking temples of noise, and when you add tender hearts into the mix, it somehow lets us meet in places we couldn’t get to any other way” - Anne Lamott

The music program of The Universalist Church involves people of all ages and seeks to transform us through the power of the arts. Our choirs enrich worship and offer special events and concerts throughout the year.

Adults and teens who would like to share in music ministry may choose from several choirs. Depending on interest, they may join The Universalist Church Choir, The Folk Heritage Singers and/or The Bell Choir. We also have a Children’s Choir for children in grades 1-3, and a Youth Choir for children in grades 4-7, both choirs led by talented directors who have degrees in music education and vocal pedagogy.

Universalist Church Choir

Directed by Cheryl Wadsworth, The Universalist Church Choir is the primary leader of our musical worship. This choir performs all levels of works and from all eras. On Music Sundays, which occur twice a year, the choir sings larger, extended works, often with extra instruments accompanying. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings. Some experience in singing is recommended. Our director, Cheryl Wadsworth, holds degrees from UConn and Yale School of Music and the Institute of Sacred Music, and is on the faculty of the Hartt School of Music, Community Division.

Folk Heritage Choir

The Folk Heritage Singers perform quality folk music at the 11 o’clock services about 6-8 times per year. Rehearsals are 45 minutes before service. The singers often learn their music that morning before sharing it in worship. All are welcome to join this group at any time.

Bell Choir

Teens or adults interested in learning to play handbells are encouraged to attend a rehearsal. Past experience in music is an asset since the group plays music with varying levels of difficulty. Those with little or no prior musical experience will be given additional assistance with music fundamentals such as rhythm or note-reading and will be paired with an experienced bell ringer. Experienced ringers may sign up for 6-8 week rehearsal commitments prior to a performance. Rehearsals are on Sundays from 12:30-1:30 PM. The choir is directed by Theodore Hine, who holds degrees from Harvard and San Francisco Conservatory.

Children’s Choir

Directed by Connecticut-certified music educator, Stacey Tinker, the goal of the Children’s Choir is for children in grades 1-3 to have fun while they learn the basics of music: listening, singing in tune, basic note-reading, and an introduction to intervals. All children are encouraged to participate regardless of previous musical instruction or ability. Rehearsals are on Sundays 10-10:45 AM.

Youth Choir

The Youth Choir is directed by Louise Fauteux, who holds a masters in vocal pedagogy from Westminster Choir college. The Youth Choir consists of children and youth in grades 4-7 and periodically provides music for church services. Along with an opportunity for spiritual expression, members receive some music education, including healthy vocal production and skills in reading music. Rehearsals are held on Sundays from 10:00 to 10:45 AM.