Ministries

Developed in conjunction with the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra’s former Executive Director, Morrie Brand, the chamber series provides an opportunity for audiences to hear very fine small ensemble concerts. In the beauty of an acoustically friendly environment, trios, quartets, and quintets all find Unity Chapel a wonderful site to present small ensemble programs. Concerts take place during the summer months, underwritten by The Sawyer Music Fund and ticket donations provide much needed support of the Westmoreland Youth Symphony Program.

Wednesdays – 4:30-5:30 pm – September to April – Through this experience children learn the basic rudiments of ringing chimes, build note and rhythm reading skills. This can prepare them for hand bells in the future and a life-long enjoyment of music. Participates in worship about 3-4 times per semester.

Wednesdays – 4:30-5:30 pm – September to April – A vocal choir for older elementary/middle school children. We continue to build musical skills while learning anthems and hymns for worship, as well as, silly Bible camp songs. Each summer, children in this age group are given either a piano lesson or a vocal coaching lesson once a week. At the end of summer we join together to participate in worship and share some of the music we have learned. Participates in worship about 3-4 times per semester.

Wednesdays – 4:30-5:30 pm – September to April – A vocal choir for younger elementary children. Children learn the basics of pitch matching, breathing/breath control and use rhythmic instruments to aid in their development. Musical games provide a medium to learn the basics of music reading skills. Participates in worship about 3-4 times per semester.

Thursdays – 7:30-9:00 pm – September to May – The Chancel Choir prepares hymns, responses, and anthems for the worship service each week. Major choral works have been presented along with orchestral ensembles. A wide range of choral music is sung: Spirituals, Shape Note Hymns, Latin American, Folk, Classical European, English, and a host of others by both living and deceased composers. Sacred music from the Christian tradition spans more than 2,000 years! Several social events are held throughout the year which build meaningful relationships and long-lasting friendships.

Thursdays – 6:30-7:20 pm – September to May – The Thursday evening bell group rings six octaves of bells and sometimes incorporates hand chimes when called for in the music. In addition to ringing music by a wide variety of composers, we have participated in bell festivals and community events from time to time. Based on the schedule of the participants, we ring about 6-7 times each season