First Presbyterian Church aspires to be centered in the worship of God and bearing witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ our Lord. The Music Ministry plays a vital role in worship, witnessing and proclaiming the gospel. We seek to glorify God and proclaim His word in worship with offerings of praise and prayer. The Ministry provides musical leadership and undergirding to the worshiping congregation in hymn singing, anthems and concert offerings. We seek to fulfill an educational role by training, educating and equipping the members of the congregation for active participation in worship and the music ministry.

Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8

Chancel Choir
The Chancel Choir, the cornerstone of the Music Ministry, has served faithfully in worship leadership since its inception. This non-auditioned, volunteer choir of approximately 40 singers, lead each week at the 11:00 AM Sunday morning worship service. The repertoire includes traditional, contemporary, and classic anthem literature. The choir performs large scale choral works for Advent, Christmas, and the Lenten season as a part of the Concert Series. The choir will also begin recording the ARP Bible Songs (Psalm Book) to produce a compact disc of these beloved psalms. The choir will also record the large works and anthems to possibly produce a collection CD. The Chancel Choir meets each Wednesday evening, except for the months of June and July. Dr. Gabriel C. Statom is the director of this ensemble.

Chancel Brass

Chancel Handbells
Five-Octaves of Schulmrich Handbells have been a part of the Music Ministry since the mid-1970’s. Two levels and age groups of handbell choirs meet weekly based on the number of people involved. The Chancel Handbell Choir is our group that is utilized in worship services regularly. Members of t his choir generally can read music and have had experiences in other instrumental ensembles.

The Children’s Handbells meet weekly and learn about ringing, theory and prepare music for special events usually for children. Regular rehearsal attendance is mandatory for its participants.

Gabe Statom and Pat Nepute, co-directors