Music Ministry

Lakewood offers a variety of music and arts programs for people of all ages. Our mission is to use the gifts of music as a means of worshiping and praising God. Our primary purpose is to provide musical leadership and support for all worship services, as well as special programs during the year. New members are always welcome at any time during the year. Come be a part of this exciting ministry... you'll be glad you did!

Adults
Chancel Choir
This choir is the largest singing ensemble for adults and is also one of the most visible groups of the music ministry. Members sing at the 9:00 and 11:11 a.m. "traditional" worship services. Rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 to 8:45 p.m. in the choir room. The choir usually performs two major works a year, and takes a rehearsal break during July and part of August.  The next major performances will be our Advent concert on December 2 and a Ken Medema concert in late January 2008; please watch for additional information as the date draws near.

Joyful Noise Praise and Worship Band
This is a group of musicians and singers who lead the congregation in music during the New Song contemporary worship service at 11:11 a.m. most Sunday mornings.  We are always looking for dedicated people wanting to be a part of worship by either playing an instrument or singing.  Rehearsals are Thursday evenings at 7:00 p.m.  Anyone interested should contact Tommy Christian for more information.     

Chancel Bell Choir
This adult hand bell choir rehearses on Monday evenings from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. in the bell room under the direction of Stevie Berryman. Music reading skills are necessary and prior hand bell experience is helpful (but not required). Rehearsals are not held during the summer months.

Child care is provided during all adult rehearsals.

Youth
Youth Choir
For students in grades six through twelve. Rehearsals are on Sunday afternoons from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. from late August to May in the choir room. This choir performs in worship and presents an annual musical, and occasionally goes on tour.  For more information reagrding the Youth Choir, please contact Shary Winkelmann, Youth Choir Director, at 281-370-2273, extension 30.

Youth Hand Bells
For students grades six through twelve who read music. Rehearsals are each Sunday from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. from September through May. Prior hand bell experience is helpful but not necessary.

Children
Fabulous Fours (children age four as of September 1)

A fun, 45 minute "pre-choir" class stressing basic music and singing skills through simple songs, games and activities.  The class meets on Sunday evenings from 5:00-5:45 p.m. from September through May in the Children’s Chapel (located in the Ark).  Fabulous Fours perform 1-2 times per semester and are directed by Cheryl Strain.

Caroler Choir (children in kindergarten through second grade)

Hosanna Singers (children in grades three through five)

This choir sings in worship once a month and presents a Christmas program and spring musical with the Caroler Choir.  Rehearsals are Sunday afternoons from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. in room A200 from September through May.  Directed by Robyn Johnson.

Children’s music is a wonderful ministry at Lakewood UMC.  Participation in one of our three children’s choirs emphasizes the following elements:

• Learning of music skills and vocal techniques
• Practicing songs for performance
• Developing stage presence and comfort with public performance
• Promoting spiritual awareness
• Fostering fellowship and a sense of belonging
• Serving our Lord and community through music

Rehearsal activities for the children's choirs include warm ups, practicing songs and music games and activities. For more information about our children's choirs, please contact Robyn Johnson, Director of Children’s Choirs, at 281-370-2273, ext. 30.

Children's Chimes

This introductory music group is for children in grades two through five and meets Sundays from 4:00-4:45 p.m. in room A203 under the leadership of Stevie Berryman; you may contact her at 281-370-2273, ext. 30 for more information.

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For further information about Lakewood's other music ministries or to join one of our programs, please contact John Hemmenway, Director of Music, at 281-370-2273 ext. 30, or e-mail him.