Our adult choirs provide many outlets for those musically inclined. The Chancel Choir, Chancel Ringers, and Chancel Orchestra with occasional Men’s Chorus, Women’s Ensemble, and other groups formed as needed are active in leading the music in worship services at SSPC. There is room for growth in each group and for new groups to form. Contact Rhonda Hambright, Director of Music, for more information (rhonda@sspres.org; (912) 638-2220)
Choirs & Instruments
Chancel Choir Wednesdays @ 7 PM & Sundays @ 10:15 am (mid-August through June) in the Sanctuary choir loft. For ages 18 years and older The Chancel Choir leads the congregation in song each Sunday morning at the 11:00 service. We gather early before that service to warm-up, review service music, and put on robes. During the Advent season, this group along with a chamber orchestra presents a cantata during the 11:00 am service.
Chancel Ringers Wednesdays @ 6:30 PM in the Bell Room. For all youth and adults The Chancel Ringers meet weekly for rehearsals mid-August through June in the Handbell Room on the Ashantilly Wing. Playing four octaves of bells and handchimes, they use special techniques such as shelley ringing (four-in-hand.) The music and direction skill is up to HMA (Handbell Musicians of America) standards and this choir occasionally attends workshops out of town. The ringers have also performed at local venues such as the Heritage Center at the Lighthouse. A love of music and some music reading ability is required. Contact Suzanne Morrison, Director, for more information (morrisonconsult@bellsouth.net)
Chancel Orchestra Thursday @ 10 am – check times with director For all youth and adults Throughout the year instrumentalists from the congregation, the community, and beyond enrich our Sunday worship services. There is a group that is coordinated by Anne Marie Stirewalt that meets weekly. The gatherings on Thursday mornings @ 10:00 am allow them to fellowship and just play when they are not preparing for an upcoming worship service. There is interest in taking this group on field trips to share with others outside the church as the orchestra continues to develop and grow. If you would like to share your instrument and musical gifts, please contact Rhonda Hambright, Director of Music or Anne Marie Stirewalt, Coordinator (2annemarie@comcast.net; (912) 399-2749.)
Montreat Worship & Music Conference Last two weeks of June each summer Adults, Youth, & Children SSPC provides an opportunity for those interested in the worship and music of the church to attend the week long conference at Montreat held annually in the mountains of North Carolina. This conference is usually during the last two weeks of June. Weeks I & II are identical in programming. Our church normally reserves Week I for adults and Week II for Youth and Children. SSPC pays a portion of each registration for Youth and Children. Guided by the principles of Reformed worship, conferees explore opportunities for vital worship experiences and enriching the liturgical life of the local church. Oh, and it’s really fun!
