Music

Let every instrument be tuned for praise… — Fred Pratt Green

As a ministry, we seek to illustrate Divine Love by proclaiming God’s word through excellent sacred music.

First Presbyterian Church has a long and rich history of music making. In 1930, Pietro Yon played this building’s inaugural organ recital. Since then, we’ve hosted composers like Gwyneth Walker, Andrew Carter and Carrie Newcomer, all who have written music for our congregation. As a ministry, we seek to illustrate Divine Love by proclaiming God’s word through excellent sacred music.

The Choir, supported by professional section leaders, sings weekly at the Sunday morning service. We prepare a diverse repertoire celebrating many historical periods, cultures, and contemporary voices. Membership is open to ages 14 and up, with some basic music reading skills required.          Rehearsals | Thursdays 7:00pm-9:00pm

The Red Door Ringers, our three octave handbell choir, performs at the Sunday morning service about once a month. Ringing is a fantastic learning experience for developing musicians, as well as fun for experienced players of other instruments. Membership is open to ages 14 and up, with no musical background required. Rehearsals | Thursdays 5:30pm-6:30pm

The Organ, a 63-rank Casavant with over 3,000 pipes, was rededicated in 2020 and is the principal instrument heard in worship each week. Recitals and demonstrations of the organ, one of the largest in Kalamazoo, are also regularly scheduled. Additionally, our Yamaha baby grand piano, guitars, drums, oboes, violins and other instruments all make music to the glory of God often through hymns, anthems and instrumental meditations.

Continuing partnerships with Western Michigan University, the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, and the Kalamazoo New Years Fest bring some of the area’s finest musicians here for performances each year. These event listings can be found on the church calendar. If you are interested in joining an ensemble, auditioning for a section leader position, or would like any more information, please contact the Director of Music at michaelm@fpckzoo.org.