Musician Sponsorship Program
The First Presbyterian Church Musician Sponsorship program is a special, and fun, way to engage with the Worship & Music Program and make a personal connection with some of the wonderful musicians who will be coming to our church to perform throughout the year.
Our amazing roster of professional musicians love to perform in our beautiful sanctuary. The music adds an element of worship that words cannot.
Your contribution through the Musician Sponsorship program ensures that we continue to attract the finest musicians to First Pres this year and in the future. This program also affords us the possibility of expansion of our special music/events in the future.
Your support is vital to help offset the rising costs of our musicians and will be greatly appreciated. Musician Sponsors are invited to meet and mingle with the musicians at the hosted dinner for musicians that precede our evening performances.
We have Musician Sponsorships ranging from $125 to $300.
We also have a Patron Sponsorship for any total up to $125 which allows us to purchase sheet music and cover other administrative costs associated with our special events/performances.
Musician Sponsors and Patrons are listed in our bulletins/programs and can dedicate their contribution in memory or honor of a loved one. Sponsorships are welcome from individuals and groups within the church.
Contact Director of Worship & Music, John McClain.
Choir Program Year
The choir program year begins in late August and leads worship each week through Memorial Day.
Each Christmas, the Chancel Choir presents a major work with orchestra and soloists.
The choir sings another major work during Lent, again with orchestra and soloists and usually collaborating with another local congregation. Each Easter, the Chancel Choir sings for Resurrection Celebration along with guest brass and timpani.
Christmas Masterworks
The Chancel Choir presents a Major Work/Choral Presentation in December usually on the 2nd Sunday of Advent. This major work presentation is endowed as part of the Hannah Thrash Memorial Gift.
2016 - Leavitt, What Sweeter Music
2017 - Vivaldi, Gloria
2018 - Mechem, The Seven Joys of Christmas
2019 - Rutter, Gloria and other works
Lenten Masterworks
The Chancel Choir presents a Choral Masterwork Presentation each Lenten season, collaborating with other local/regional congregations when able.
2018 – Hayes, Requiem
(Conducted by Nathan Ogg and Brady Brennan, collaboration with Boulevard Presbyterian Church, Columbus.)
2019 - Dubois, Seven Last Words of Christ
(conducted by Nathan Ogg and Clarence McCoy, collaboration with First United Methodist Church, Lancaster)
Celebration Ringers
A 5-octave bell and hand-chime choir that is an integral part of congregational worship and the Lancaster arts community. The Ringers participate in worship approximately one Sunday each month and perform in the annual Candlelight Tour. Weekly rehearsals are held in the Bell Room on the Upper Level (3). New members are always welcome. Some experience is helpful but not required.
Instrumental Musicians desiring to share their instrumental skills are also of great value. All ages are encouraged to participate.
For other musical interests, speak with the Director of Music and Worship, John McClain.