“Music is a fair and glorious gift of God… Music makes people kinder, gentler, more reasonable…” Such was the opinion of Martin Luther, an opinion we share at The Presbyterian Church of Okemos. Our goal is to provide people of all ages with an opportunity to make a joyful noise unto the Lord, to enjoy the fellowship of others in a choir setting, and to grow in their faith and life.
Chancel Choir
The choir performs on Sundays at the 10:00 am worship service from September to May and for a variety of other special occasions, with at least one major work with instrumental accompaniment. Senior high school students and older are invited to join us for music and fellowship.
Rehearsals
- Thursday evenings at 7:30 pm
- Sunday mornings at 9:15 am
Directed by Dr. Colleen Chester
Accompanied by Dr. Marlene Brewbaker
Handbell Choirs
Two handbell choirs perform at worship services and for other occasions. The JuBellees meet Thursday’s at 6:15 to 7:15PM. They play mostly level I music ( easy). Ages 8 through 94 played last year! Please join us if you are new to bell ringing to learn techniques etc. The Monday Mallets are the more advanced group meeting each Monday from 6:45 to 7:45 PM.
Directed by Irene Shutt
Jazz Weekend
Jazz Weekend is held the Saturday and Sunday preceding the beginning of Lent. The Saturday evening concert features some of the best jazz musicians in the state. The Sunday morning worship service highlights jazz selections relating to the spoken word. In addition, a lecture and discussion of various jazz styles is presented on the Sunday preceding Jazz Weekend.
Lessons and Carols
During Advent the choirs present “An Evening of Lessons and Carols” as a Christmas gift to the community with proceeds benefiting a local charity. The Chancel Choir and Handbell Choirs along with guest musicians perform a variety of Christmas music, including carol arrangements and congregational singing.
Clip from the 2016 Lessons and Carols service: