New Dedicated Music Ministry Area

You may have noticed a few changes in the area near the Organ console. For years, the choir sang from the steps of the High Altar. This posed several issues. There was a great deal of excess movement in the Sanctuary as well as considerable overcrowding. Because the Organ console and piano were basically around the corner, there was no way for the organist/director to communicate visually with the singers. By removing pews and placing the singers in the new music area, they have visual contact with the Presider, the Lector and the altar. We have moved the upright piano out of that area (it’s sound in that space was less than satisfying) and we have moved the Yamaha grand piano from the Upper meeting room to the new Music Ministry area. The grand piano has more carrying power in the church and has a fuller, richer tone. The organ console was rotated 90 degrees so that the organist can see and communicate with the choir/schola, as well as being able to see the main aisle and body of the church. With the addition of our new professional Livestream equipment, it was determined that that area was also the best location for the live streamers. Future plans involve removing the remaining 2 pews (all of the removed pews will be used in other areas or dismantled and put safely into storage) and replacing them with flexible seating, chairs which can be placed in any configuration. We also hope to put in seated risers for the choir and ensemble in the future. Congregational seating will be available in that area when the choir is not present. It is our firm hope that you will find this a pleasing solution and that the entire Music Ministry team can work closely together in our ministry to you, the Parishioners.

In Christ’s peace,
Jeffrey Porter, Director of Music and Liturgy