Music Ministry
Crawford has historically enjoyed a vibrant Music Program with a Chancel Choir, Handbell Choir, and frequent guest musicians. Our music director, James Gutierrez leads our Chancel Choir, while our very talented organist, Helena Veranian accompanies them on piano. Our handbell choir is lead by Crawford member, Randie Black-Schaffer. See videos of some of our choirs’ performances on our YouTube channel, HERE. All are welcome and encouraged to join either of our choirs. Questions? Contact either director by leaving a message for them in the church office (office@crawfordumc.org or 781-729-5056).
Chancel Choir
Rehearsals on Thursdays @ 7:30 pm in the Sanctuary
The Chancel Choir is Crawford’s most active music group. Composed of professional and amateur singers, this group blesses Crawford each and every week with their music ministry. Those who are 16+ are encouraged to join us. The group sings everything from classical to gospel and contemporary. If you believe that the spirit is calling you to sing, we invite you to attend any Thursday rehearsal so you can see if you like it before you officially join.
While it’s helpful if you have experience reading music, this isn’t an requirement. If you enjoy singing and are interested in joining the choir, don’t hesitate to reach out to our music director, James Gutierrez.
Handbell Choir
Crawford’s Handbell and chimes Choir plays familiar hymns and new compositions at Sunday church services, alone and in concert with the choir or piano. Rehearsals are after church on Sundays, with run throughs before church on days we ring. The ability to read treble and bass clefs and to count in time is helpful. Please contact Randie Black-Schaffer, Director if you might be interested in playing with us.”
Special Ensembles and Other Opportunities
If you play an instrument, our organist is available to arrange special ensembles, or we also welcome solo musical offerings from time to time during the service. We encourage our community to use their gifts in the service of others. Members and friends are welcome to accompany the choir and our organist at our 10:00 am service, and we often bring in professional musicians for Christmas, Easter, and other special occasions. Please contact our Music Director, James Gutierrez if you’d like more information or to volunteer your services.
Music Meditations
Sure On This Shining Night
This week's Musical Meditation will be the final installment before taking a break for the summer. With late, warm evenings upon us, I'm thinking of Sure On This Shining Night by the quintessential and vastly underrated American composer, Samuel Barber. The text, by...
Crown Him
Crown Him with Many Crowns is an epic hymn, rich with imagery honoring the kingship of Jesus after his ascension to the throne. Across twelve(!) stanzas, written by two separate hymnodists, the text is reflecting upon the many divine honors Christ the King possesses...
Mother’s Day
As this Sunday is Mother’s Day, I’m thinking of the most famous, exemplary mother in Christendom. The words of Mary as she learns that she will bear the Son of God are full of awe and hope. Bringing a child into the world is a radically hopeful act. Bringing the Hope...