The goal of the music ministry at St. Thomas is the active participation by all members. We aim to underscore the liturgy with music and texts that are inclusive of all styles and are offered by participants of every age group.We are blessed with a congregation who actively support this ministry. All Are Welcome.
Traditional Choir
The volunteer choir sings at the 10:45 service. Although we sing mainstream hymnody and traditional anthems, we have also sung gospel and spiritual hymns, and even twentieth-century works with synthesized electronic accompaniment and new notation. The choir tackles major works with brass or chamber accompaniment in addition to the piano, organ, or harpsichord arrangements. Our major assignments include providing special music for Christmas Eve, Easter Vigil, Easter morning, Confirmations, and Veteran’s Day.
Praise Ensemble
The praise ensemble is composed of a vocal ensemble accompanied by an acoustic band. The band folders reflect the liturgy of the church, and the styles range from gospel to pop/rock and blues. The members of the church frequently add to the creativity of the ensemble, providing input to amplify the musical offerings during the wonderful church year. Besides singing at the 8:45 a.m. service, this group is responsible for leading the music on Thanksgiving Eve, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday, and the Mardi Gras pancake feed, and summer vacation Bible School.
Children’s Choir
Elementary students meet weekly to practice music designed to enhance the worship services. The students are creative. In addition to learning the notes, the students have created texts to communicate the message of the music. Besides singing in robes at the traditional services Christmas Eve, the Children’s Choir sings with the praise ensemble on occasions and even helps to lead the younger singers from Children’s Chapel and singers from the Christmas Pageant. If your child would like to learn to sing in a supportive environment, please talk with Dr. Beth through our parish office! The number is 913-451-0512.
Children’s Chapel
The children attending Children’s Chapel sing music appropriate to the season during both of the morning worship services. They share their music during the year, especially during the holy seasons. Our Children’s Chapel program takes place during both Sunday worship services, and gives children a chance to experience some teaching and music appropriate for their age. Parents are welcome to sit in and see what it’s all about!
Cantors
The cantors lead the music at the 5:30 Saturday evening worship service. The members alternate weekends in order to spread the ministry of this important team. The singers are accompanied by piano and sing hymns and occasional solos.
Section Leaders/ Mentoring
St. Thomas maintains a group of section leaders, college musicians who are training to become professionals. These students help to lead worship singing, conducting, accompanying, and work at the Arts Camp.
