First Presbyterian Church of Athens | Ministry of Music

Ministry of Music...

What role does music play in worship?

the music of AFPC

Throughout Biblical history, music has played an important role in Christian worship. The Bible repeatedly mentions music and singing as forms of praise and worship. At First Presbyterian Church, we believe that music is a means of praising God and is one of the most beautiful and richest expressions of God's word and prayer. Through music, all of God's people unite in prayer and worship.

The Ministry of Music at First Presbyterian enjoys a long and outstanding tradition as leaders of our worship service. Singers in our Chancel Choir provide musical leadership for our 11:00 a.m. services and for special services and programs of major choral works. Our graded choir program includes choirs for children and youth, age three through high school. The Mellows minister through music weekly to senior adults at home or in various facilities throughout the community. Instrumentalists are also an important part of our music ministry and include their playing wind, string, percussion, guitar and keyboard instruments in various ensembles and services.

You may want to consider developing and using your God-given gift of music by joining one of our choirs or by playing an instrument. We have many opportunities for involvement and hope you'll join us.

The Schantz Organ

Schantz pipe organ

Our musical heart at First Presbyterian Church received a new beat in 2002. We replaced the organ installed in 1900 with a magnificent Schantz pipe organ. Each Schantz pipe organ is a unique instrument crafted to serve the special musical requirements it is called upon to fulfill.

Painstaking attention to detail was applied to all aspects of the design, physical layout, tonal composition, construction, installation and tonal finishing ensuring that the instrument met the Schantz Company's exacting standards. Each component of the organ's mechanism underwent rigorous testing before being installed in the instrument.

Truly a breathtaking masterpiece, this organ provides our worship service with beautiful music. Come experience our new musical heartbeat and enjoy its splendor as together we worship God.

The Choirs of First Presbyterian


Choir Name	Rehearsal Time	Description
Children's Music Program (ages 3-grades 5)	Wednesdays 5:00-5:45 p.m.	Children learn to praise God through a variety of musical experiences. Tom Granum, Meg Granum, Wendy Arthur, Kathryn Nichols, Melynda McCutchen and others provide leadership.
Youth Music Ministry / Celebration Singers (youth, grades 6-12)	Sundays, 5:00-6:00 p.m.	Celebration Singers participate frequently in worship and have special events during the year, including a tour in early summer.
Chancel Choir (open to all adults)	Wednesday nights 6:30-8:00 p.m.	The Chancel Choir sings for the 11:00 am Sunday worship service year-round. Additionally the Chacel Choir provides music for special services during the year and presents several programs. The Chacel Choir is open to all college students and adults. High-school students interested in singing with the Chancel Choir are also encouraged to participate in the Youth Music Ministry. If you are interested in joining the Chancel Choir, please contact Tom Granum in advance so that he will have a folder prepared for you.
The Mellows (open to all ages)	Thursday afternoons 1:30 p.m.	Open to all ages, The Mellows provide on of our outreach ministries to the community, especially to shut-ins at home and to residents in nursing facilities and retirement homes. Though participants are encouraged to attend when they can, attendance is very flexible. The mellows lead sing-alongs with senior adults focusing on gospel songs, familiar hymns, and popular music of the early 20^th century. If you would like a copy of their current schedule, please contact Tom Granum.
Instrumentalists	Various Opportunities	If you are interested in playing instrumental solos or playing with ensembles, please contact Tom Granum to schedule a time for your participation.

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