Worship is the central activity of our church. We gather on Sunday mornings to express praise to our sovereign Lord, thankfulness to our gracious God, contrition to our forgiving Savior, dependence on the Holy Spirit, our receptivity to the Living Word, and to reaffirm our need for fellowship with Christ’s body, the Church.
Music can be a significant part of corporate worship. Depending on the talent and abilities of our musicians, the musical styles in our worship services can range from classical and traditional sacred music to contemporary worship and praise songs, and from bluegrass to pop, gospel and spirituals.
There are a number of opportunities for participation in the Music Program at Friendswood Friends Church:
Friends Chorale
The Friends Chorale sings at both Sunday services an average of 2 Sundays per month, plus singing at occasional special services and events. The Chorale occasionally presents concerts in conjunction with other choirs, orchestra and soloists.
Rehearsals are Sunday evenings, 6:00 to 7:00 PM. Childcare is provided. All are welcome. Although we do not have try outs for the Friends Chorale, the ability to match pitch and count beats are welcomed qualities appreciated by participants and audience alike. Very few in the choir are trained musicians, and some do not read music. Love of music and the desire to work with a group of delightful people to create a worshipful experience for the congregation are also important qualities for the members of the Friends Chorale.
Persons interested in joining the Friends Chorale should call and speak with the Associate Pastor (Jim Towne at 281-482-7821) prior to attending rehearsal for the first time.
Music Team
In order to explore more fully the large spectrum of contemporary Christian music, we have formed a Music Team to lead worship services and to bring today’s praise and worship songs to a wider audience. The Music Team leads worship most Sundays and practices together one evening each week. The group consists of both instrumentalists and singers. If you play electric or acoustic guitar, electric or string bass, drums, or keyboards, you are encouraged to contact the Associate Pastor (Jim Towne at 281-482-7821) about being part of this group.
Sound Ministry
This group of dedicated and talented individuals works to operate and maintain the sound, lighting, and audio-visual systems in the Worship Center, Chapel, Friends’ Center, and other areas of the church during services and special events. If you would like to serve in this group, contact the church office.
Over-The-Hill Gang
The Over The Hill Gang is a group of instrumentalists and singers whose primary mission is to bring joy to the hearts of people through music, laughter, fellowship and love. The band was founded in 1999 to entertain seniors living in assisted living and nursing facilities. While that group remains the focus of our mission, over the years we have extended our reach to include elementary schools, church groups, community seniors’ organizations, civic clubs and organizations, and special needs groups.
Our music includes gospel, old time favorites, western, patriotic and special event music. Our director, Marian Gordner takes great care to tailor each program to the specific audience and occasion. For information, contact Marian Gordner 281-482-7019 or at email othgmusic@att.net.
Ringing Friends
From time to time we have had a group of musicians interested in participating in a hand bell choir. Currently we do not have the leadership or a “critical mass” of participants to sustain the choir. But, should the interest return and leadership arise, Ringing Friends will again offer their unique expressions of praise to God in our worship services.
Friends Brass
The Friends Brass is made up of both students and adults, and plays on special occasions such as Christmas, Easter, and other services. The group is not restricted to brass instruments; all wind instruments plus percussion are welcome and encouraged to participate. Rehearsals are as called by the Director. For further information, contact the Minister of Music.
There just might be a place in the Friendswood Music Ministry for you, whether in a choir, instrumental group, on the sound and lighting technical team, or in other artistic expressions of worship and praise.