The Chancel Choir is a group of devoted singers who unite their voices to glorify God through song each Sunday in worship. The Chancel Choirs mission is to foster the spiritual growth of its members through God’s gift of song, to develop a sense of community among its members, to understand the personal and corporate responsibility in leading the First United Methodist Church of Palatine’s congregation in the worship of God, to explore a wide variety of sacred literature, and to share its musical gifts with the community. We believe that everyone can sing and should have a chance to do so. We provide encouraging and supportive learning opportunities for everyone who wants to raise their voice in song. Our Chancel Choir members share a passion for singing, a desire to grow and explore their own abilities, and a commitment to making excellent music together. You will find the music rewarding and the musical direction inspirational. We work together to develop a collective sense of community — musically and spiritually — that enables us to share God’s love through music with one another and with our congregation. The chancel choir sings a sacred choral anthem during the 9:30 am service. Throughout the year, the Chancel choir presents special worship music for Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter. Rehearsals are Thursday evenings, 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the sanctuary and there is a brief review rehearsal on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.
Add some joy to your life! Anyone interested in joining is welcome! Membership in the choir is open to all who have a love of God and a love of music, from teenagers to adults. The requirements for membership are enthusiasm, energy, and effort. Whether you sing five notes or five octaves, we have a place for you in the Chancel Choir so stop by a rehearsal. We don’t hold auditions but we’ll always hold a chair for you. Contact Michael Grippo, Director of Music Ministries, at michael@fumcpalatine.org or (847)-359-1345 for more information.
- Who are they? The Chancel Choir is an all-volunteer group which works with the pastor and the Director of Music Ministries, Michael Grippo, to provide music for the various services held at the church.
- What do they do? The primary job of the choir is to provide music during church services but this only tells part of the story:
- Special services such as Christmas, Easter, and the Maundy Thursday service get extra attention.
- How can I Become a Member? Anyone who would like to become a member of the choir may do so simply by showing up to rehearsal.
- Do I have to audition? All you need is a love of music and the passion for singing.
- Do I have to be a trained musician? No musical training required.
- What are rehearsals like? Warm-ups start at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday evenings. We practice upcoming music in an atmosphere that is fun and laid back. We allow time for announcements and share prayer concerns. Rehearsals end at 9:00 with a prayer. In addition, the choir gets together about 30 minutes before Sunday services to review the music for the service. Generally the choir practices from late August through early June.
- When does Chancel Choir sing? At the 9:30 a.m. service. We also sing at special services such as Holy Week and Christmas Eve and present a Christmas Cantata each year.
- Whom do I contact if I have more questions? Director of Music Ministries Michael Grippo – michael@fumcpalatine.org or (847)-359-1345.