Music Programs for Children & Youth

Throughout the history of The First Church, the music program has played a central role for children and youth. Currently, there are numerous ways that children and youth can become involved in the First Church music program. To date, there are three children’s and youth choirs that meet weekly. Also, choristers have the chance to participate in a fully-staged musical every Fall. The talented Alumni Choir, made up of former choristers, sings on Christmas Eve and other special occasions. The Alumni Choir demonstrates the importance and longevity of a First Church musical education. Many of these returning alumni claim that their love for music began at First Church.

For more information regarding the music program, please contact Alfa Radford at aradford@uubelmont.org.

To register your child for the Youth/Children’s Music Program for 2012/2013, please click here.

Please read the current newsletter & schedule information by clicking on the links below.

  • NEWSLETTER (updated edition coming soon)
  • SCHEDULE (updated edition coming soon)

Junior Choir (Grades K-4)

  • Rehearses on Monday evenings 6:30-7 pm . Children learn warm-up exercises, songs, play instruments, and learn the basics of notes, rhythms and pitch.
  • Currently there are 44 boys and girls in the Junior Choir.
  • Sings in worship services approximately 4 times per year, including a Christmas Eve Service in which first graders ring handbells.
  • Participates in the annual Fall musical.

Chancel Choir (Grades 5-6)

  • Rehearses on Monday evenings 7-7:45 pm. Choristers begin to read music, sing in parts, and sing in various languages.
  • Currently there are 28 boys and girls in the Chancel Choir.
  • Sings in worship services approximately 4 times per year, including a Christmas Eve service.
  • Participates in the annual Fall musical.

Youth Choir (Grades 7-12)

  • Rehearses on Monday evenings 7:45-8:30 pm. Youth Choir members further their understanding of musical concepts, sing mixed chorus pieces (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) in various languages, as well as solos, duets, trios, etc. Pieces are often sung with instruments and percussion.
  • Currently there are 30 members of the Youth Choir.
  • Sings in worship services approximately 4 times per year, including a Christmas Eve service in which they also sing with the Alumni Choir (former choristers).
  • Participates in the annual Fall musical.

Alumni Choir

  • Sings on Christmas Eve and other special occasions.
  • Approximately 40-45 former choristers return each year to sing and reconnect with their peers.

Parent Participation

Parents are involved with the Children’s and Youth Music Program in many ways. First Church parishioners play a key role in the production of the annual musical, assisting with music, scenery, costumes, lighting, sound, make-up, and communication.