We at First Presbyterian Church believe strongly in the power of music as a means to enhance and elevate our worship services. On any given Sunday, you are likely to hear selections from a variety of sources such as traditional hymns, choral anthems, spirituals, and contemporary music—all chosen to align with the week’s message and scripture readings. We are blessed to have a strong musical team composed of the chancel choir, praise band, and handbell choir, and organ. In addition, we try to bring in guest singers and instrumentalists from the University of Delaware’s music program and the local community.
Outside of worship services, First Presbyterian church strongly supports local and regional music programs by making our sanctuary available for concerts throughout the year. Some groups who regularly perform here include the Newark Symphony Orchestra, Newark Community Band, the Chesapeake Brass Band, and various groups from the University of Delaware.
Chancel Choir
The Chancel Choir leads the congregation in hymns, sings with the Praise Band, and provides special music. Led by Director of Music Ministry Christian Hendricks, their repertoire spans classical choral anthems, through to spirituals, and more contemporary pieces. The choir is always looking for more members. If you are interested please join us on Thursday evenings at 7 pm in the lower sanctuary choir room.
Praise Band
The Praise Band, ably assisted with vocals from the Chancel Choir, provides songs and music from traditional hymns to the latest Christian artists to inspire the congregation. The Team meets each Sunday at 8:30 am to prepare for the coming service. We are always looking for new players. If you are interested, please contact the Praise Band leader Larry Benson or any of the musicians.
Carillon Ringers (Handbell Choir)
The Carillon Ringers is an enthusiastic group who love playing handbells and bringing their music into our worship services. Led by our Director of Music Ministry Christian Hendricks, the Ringers usually play monthly at a worship service. Their music is selected from a variety of styles and difficulty levels. The Carillon Ringers are a welcoming group of people and are always seeking additional ringers. If you are interested please join us on Wednesday evenings at 7 pm in the lower sanctuary bell room.
Organ Music
Our hybrid pipe organ is a Moeller, which was renovated and expanded by Robert Gladden and Associates in the early 2000’s. It is a three-keyboard movable console that contains 24 ranks of 1437 pipes; 40 digital stops which equal an additional 30 ranks; Harp, Celeste, and Degan Tower Chimes (all digital); existing conventional chimes; and a MIDI system with play/record and transpose capabilities.