A big part of our worship at First Presbyterian Church is finding spiritual connection through expressions of music.  We have a choir that has sung in Carnegie Hall, bands that raise the roof with hand-clapping and foot-stomping beats, bells that ring out to the Lord, and children who lead us in songs of praise to Jesus.  We are led in music at the 8:00 a.m. Early Bird Worship by Cathy Gaestel at the keyboard.  She has a host of volunteer singers and instrumentalists that assist her.  Music at the 9:30 a.m. Traditional Service is led by Marcello Velame who serves as Chancel Choir director and organist.  He is assisted by a dedicated group of singers and an assortment of people playing  brass, bells, piano, strings and woodwinds.  In 11 a.m. Family Worship we sing praise songs led by Stu Hooten on guitar and others who guide us in a contemporary expression of praise to God.  The Children’s Cherub Choir often sings at Family Worship.

Special musical presentations are provided by the Chancel Choir including Holy Thursday, Easter, Christmas, and Seasonal Cantatas.  Musical guests from within and outside the church family support our various services and provide special presentations.  We have Blue Grass, Country, and Rock concerts, Bell Choir Celebrations, and a variety of groups that come together for special occasions.  A big hit last year was the presentation of the Broadway musical Godspell.   

Whether you were born with musical talent or whether you just have a love and an appreciation for music and would like to develop your abilities, we encourage you (and children) to join us.  Our Music School provides helpful musical training in voice and instruments.  Some of the musical groups that meet regularly are:  

• Chancel Choir
  
• Men's Choir
  
• Women's Ensemble
  
• Soul Force (Praise & Worship Band & Chorus)
  
• Jubilee Bells
  
• Celebration Ringers
  
• Cherub Choir (Grades Pre-K through 4th)
  
• Radhouse Singers (Children)
  
• Recorder Ensemble
  
• Music Lessons

If you would like more information about these groups, please contact us or call the the church office at (732) 223-4627.