What Music Means To Us
Without music, life would be a mistake.
-Friedrich Nietszche
First Unitarian is a singing, swinging congregation full of gifted musicians and attuned listeners. Music lies at the heart of our worship services, and is one of the strong community-building forces in the life of the congregation. Many members find ways to express their creativity through a wide range of performing opportunities; our musicians range in age from 6 to 76. Diverse, eclectic, and always energetic, our program encompasses classical, jazz, folk, rock, blues, gospel…just to name a few!
On any given Sunday, you might walk into our sanctuary to hear a classical piano trio, a gospel shout, a stirring organ-and-trumpet fanfare, spirituals, bluegrass, African drumming, or the shimmering sound of bells. We believe in listening with open ears and open hearts to the power of the divine which comes to us through music, and we believe in the unique power of music to heal individuals and bring communities together.
Performing Ensembles: Opportunities to Participate
Mary Lou Williams' Music For Peace, March 2005Chancel Choir
The centerpiece of our church’s multifaceted music program is the 45+ voice Chancel Choir. The choir is a mixed-voice, all-volunteer ensemble. Any church member or friend with the ability to carry a tune is welcome to join; prior choral experience, vocal training, or the ability to read music are desirable, but not required.
The choir rehearses on Thursday nights from 7:15-9:15 pm from late August through mid-June, and sings twice a month for our two Sunday services. We
sing music from a wide variety of cultures, genres, faith traditions, and time periods. For more information, or to schedule an informal audition, please contact Renée Witon, our Interim Director of Music Ministry.
Handbell Choir
The Handbell Choir is one of two lay-led regular church music ensembles. Our multi-generational handbell choir began in January 2003, thanks to the inspired leadership of member Cynthia Davis, an experienced handbell choir director. We started on a borrowed set of handbells, and in the spring of 2005, through the efforts of many, held a successful fundraising campaign. We now own a 3-octave set of Malmark handbells and 3 octaves of hand chimes.
Our ringers perform once a month for Sunday services, and enjoy
traveling to
other Unitarian Universalist congregations and other East Bay communities
several times a year. Handbells are a wonderful way to experience
community
and worship through music. The Handbell Choir rehearses Sundays, 5:00-6:30 pm For more information, please email director
Cynthia Davis at cldavis1@google.com.
Band Without Borders
The Band Without Borders is one of two lay-led regular church music ensembles. Under the fearless leadership of guitarist Stefan Schneider, the Band plays rock, blues, folk, or bluegrass music as the spirit moves them. Players or singers interested in participating must be able to commit to a six-week rehearsal schedule as determined by the leader. The Band performs four times a year in worship services. For more information, contact Stefan Schneider at 510-292-6576.
Children’s Choir: Touch the Earth, Reach the Sky
Our Children's Choir is on hiatus for the Spring, 2008. Watch for new information in the Fall.