Music

Historically, music has been an integral part of Christianity since the early Roman Church. Music becomes the medium by which the gathered congregation can offer sung praise to God. Latrobe Presbyterian Church recognizes the important role music plays in the liturgy of worship and spiritual formation. It has the ability to move us beyond ourselves, beyond the visible and beyond the tangible. At times, music can provide an auditory window through which we might glimpse, if only for a brief moment, the profound glory of God,

The purpose of the music program at LPC is to support the Word spoken. The choirs lead in the singing of hymns, psalms and service response as well as pray on behalf of the people through choral or hand bell anthems. The music ministry of LPC offers many opportunities for non-members and church members of all ages to experience the Gospel through sacred music. The anthems are chosen according to the liturgical seasons of the church year and the scripture lessons of the day.

Choirs

Chancel Choir – Grades 9-12 and Adults

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.

Belle Ringers I – Adults

Wednesdays – 9:15-10:00 am – September to May – This bell choir is made up of retired folks who enjoy making music together. We usually ring three octave music by a variety of composers. However, most of the arrangements are based on hymn-tunes or music that fits a particular season within the church year. Our worship participation is based on the schedule of the participants and we tend to play about 6-7 times each season..

Belle Ringers II – Grades 9-12 and Adults

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

Children’s Choir – Pre-K to 2nd Grade

Wednesdays – 4:30-5:45 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.

Kids’ Club Choir – 3rd thru 8th Grades

Wednesdays – 4:30-5:45 pm – September to April –  A vocal choir for older elementary 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.

Joyful Noise Chimes – 3rd thru 8th Grades

Wednesdays – 4:30-5:45 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.

Unity Chapel Summer Chamber Music Series

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..

The Organ

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