The Music Ministry exists to lead the congregation of Westminster Presbyterian Church in joyful worship through music that glorifies the living God, encourages the body of Christ, and magnifies the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name.
about
The Music Ministry plays a vital role in the worship of Westminster Church. Under the leadership of our Director of Music, the Music Ministry nurtures the musical gifts and spiritual lives of all ages in the preparation of music for worship services and special events.
Our Music Ministry includes numerous choirs, instrumental ensembles, and small groups. There are also recurring opportunities for soloists and accompanists to serve.
vision
As we lead through music, the Music Ministry strives to exercise and develop the God-given musical talents of our congregation, so these gifts can be further used to glorify Him now and throughout eternity.
Praise the LORD! For it is good to sing praises to our God;
for it is pleasant, and a song of praise is fitting.
Psalm 147:1
Choirs
SATB singers, Grade 9-Adult; presents a variety of outstanding choral repertoire covering a wide range of time periods and musical styles. Rehearsals take place on Wednesdays, 7:30-9 PM, in Music Room 203. This choir sings weekly at the 11 AM Sunday service, and at specials services such as: Thanksgiving Eve, 10 PM Christmas Eve, Holy Thursday, and both Easter morning services. The Sanctuary Choir also has a Saturday choir retreat in the fall and presents a major choral work each year.
SATB singers, Grade 9-Adult; requires less time commitment than the Sanctuary Choir. Rehearsals take place on Wednesdays, 6-7 PM, in Music Room 203. The Matins Choir sings every 2-3 weeks at the 8 AM Sunday service, and additionally at the 6 PM Christmas Eve service and both Easter morning services. Matins are encouraged to attend the fall choir retreat.
All children in Grades 1-2; introduces the fundamentals of good choral technique to beginning singers. Rehearsals take place on Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 PM, in Room 210, including both singing and fun games to build music reading skills. The Primary Choir sings monthly at the 11 AM Sunday service and at the 6 PM Christmas Eve service.
All singers in Grades 3-6; builds the skills necessary to sing anthems in two and three parts. Rehearsals take place on Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 PM, in Room 212 and challenge students to reach their full potential as young singers. The Junior Choir sings monthly at the 11 AM Sunday service and at the 6 PM Christmas Eve service.
All singers in Grades 7-12; sings regularly in Sunday worship services with rehearsals most Sundays, 12:30–1:45 PM. Singers will be musically challenged, develop 3-part singing, and be spiritually nurtured.
Sing to him a new song; play skillfully on the strings, with loud shouts.
handbell Ensembles
JUBILATE RINGERS
2-3 octave bell choir; open to beginning and intermediate ringers of all ages, Grade 4–Adult. Rehearsals take place Tuesdays, 6:15-7:15 PM, in Music Room 203.
WESTMINSTER RINGERS
3-4 octave bell choir; open to experienced ringers Grade 7-Adult. Rehearsals take place on Tuesdays, 7:15-8:30 PM, in Music Room 203.
Instrumental Ensembles
Instrumental ensembles are open to experienced musicians, Grade 7 – Adult, and rehearse periodically. Music is presented in Sunday morning and evening services. Frequency varies with each ensemble. Contact the Director of Music for more details.
The following INSTRUMENTAL ensembles play periodically throughout the year, with rehearsals scheduled by the
directors:
Additional Opportunities to serve
There are many opportunities for vocal and instrumental soloists to share the gifts God has given them throughout the year in our worship services. Preludes, anthems, offertories, and musical offerings are scheduled quarterly by the Director of Music.
Pianists are specifically needed to play Sunday evening services and to accompany various groups and Sunday School classes.
Contact our Director, Frank Dodd, to learn more or become involved.
Qualifications for Participation
In addition to a saving knowledge and acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord, we desire these fruits in the lives of our active musicians:
So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
Hymn of the Month
COncerts
Public Invited | Free Will Offering
Joy to the World
Sunday, December 7 | 6 PM
Presented by the Westminster Adult Choir, chamber orchestra, and readers, this traditional service of lessons and carols will feature the
beloved Christmas music of John Rutter.
New Jersey Chamber Orchestra
Saturday, January 31 | 7 PM
Under the direction of Thomas Hong, the New Jersey Chamber Orchestra performs works by Italian composer Ottorino Respighi.
Messiah University Choir Concert
Saturday, April 11 | 7 PM
Under the direction of Dr. Joy Meade, this choir of 45 students will perform a variety of Baltic and American choral music from their
upcoming international tour to Estonia, Latvia, and Finland.
Sandra McCracken in Concert (Ticketed event)
Saturday, May 9 | 7 PM
Hear celebrated Christian singer-songwriter Sandra McCracken live in concert!
Tickets go on sale March 2.
MUSIC CAMP
2025 Theme: Music Through the ages
Our goal for music camp is strengthening young musicians to become lifelong worshipers of Jesus Christ.
Next Camp: Summer 2027
