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
Earth Day Music Meditation
As we take a moment to pause and acknowledge the beauty of the Earth, this most precious and grand gift, I am reminded of a quintessential piece of choral music: Earth Song, by Frank Tichelli. Growing up in rural Montana, I first encountered this work as a student in...
We Mend
Pastor Anne's April 18 sermon, loosely, addresses the apparent paradox of evil existing in an existence governed by a God who is Love. I have wrestled with this myself for my entire life, as I am sure many before and many after me shall. I am left with the reality...
How Good and Pleasant
As spring beckons us outdoors and we finally enjoy the fruits of fellowship before the Doric columns and doors of the church, my mind is drawn to the words of the 133rd Psalm. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! Arvo Pärt's...