Music at Northminster
The music program at Northminster has always been a vital part of both the worship services and the arts community on the North Shore.
A 26-rank Casavant pipe organ is the foundation of the worship music. This instrument is played primarily by renowned organist Paul Vander Weele. Paul can be heard both during regular worship and in concert at various times during the year.
Chancel Choir
This 30+ voice adult ensemble is under the direction of Dr. Christopher Owen. Made up of both volunteer and professional members, the choir rehearses weekly and performs throughout the year.
The Chancel Choir prepares and performs several major works in both worship and in concert each year. These larger works have included Masses by Schubert and Haydn; cantatas by Pinkham and Bach; as well as Requiem masses by Faure. It is open to musicians of all levels and welcomes new members.
Hand Bell Choirs
Northminster has both an adult and a youth hand bell choir. These ensembles are made up of volunteer musicians and open to all who are interested. They rehearse weekly and perform monthly in the worship services.
The 6th–8th grade bell choir meets on Sunday mornings at 9 a.m. in the Bell Room to rehearse under the direction of Dr. Christopher Owen. This choir prepares anthems to be shared with the congregation in the 9:30 a.m. worship service.
Joyful Noise Choir
This children's choir for grades 1-5 is under the direction of Molly Kelley. The choir frequently sings in the 9:30 a.m. worship service.
Sunday School Choir
Children in grades 1-5 rehearse under the direction of Molly Kelley following Sunday School, from 10:45 to 11:05 a.m. This rehearsal time reinforces songs the children have learned throughout each of the Sunday School units. The Sunday School Choir frequently shares this music with the congregation in the 9:30 a.m. worship service.
Cherub Choir
Cherub Choir (ages 3-5) is offered on Sunday morning from 10:45-11:05 in Room 203, under the direction of Martha Henrickson. Parents, please pick up your cherubs at the conclusion of rehearsal!
Instrumentalists
We also have a talented pool of brass, string, and woodwind instrumentalists who are called upon throughout the year to share their talents in worship.
Contact NPC Director of Music for information on any of these music activities.