Unitarian Universalist Church of Silver Spring
Participating in the Music Program
There are several ways to participate in the Music Program, either on a regular or occasional basis.
The Sanctuary Singers (the Church Choir)
The Sanctuary Singers choir is at the heart of UUCSS’s Music Program. Choir members' backgrounds represent a broad spectrum of skill levels and abilities. Some are seasoned performers with locally known choral groups as well as talented instrumentalists, while others have little musical training. Choir members support each other and are committed to working cooperatively with the Music Director to bring both familiar and new spiritual music to our community.
From September to June, the choir sings at worship services, usually two or three Sundays a month. The Singers also provide music for special events, including the UUCSS Suite Treat Café fundraiser, our annual Multi-UU Church Choir Concert (with Paint Branch UUC, Davies Memorial UUC, and the Bowie UUF), and collaborations with visiting artists from our thriving Music Residency Program. It has been said that the choir has more fun than any other group in the church. A healthy balance of laughter and focused hard work accompanies most rehearsals! The choir is open to everyone who enjoys singing. Some experience with reading music is helpful, but not compulsory. Special Ear Training and Note Reading classes can be arranged by the Music Director as needed.
There are two ways to sing with the choir:
- Join us for rehearsal every Thursday evening at 7:30 in the Sanctuary, or
- Participate in a Flexible Rehearsal Arrangement.
Contact Director, Michael Holmes, musicdirector@uucss.org, to discuss and negotiate your commitment
UUCSS House Band
Our most recent success story! Formed in the Spring of 2007, the House Band consists of UUCSS members and musician friends in the community who are experienced folk, rock, and jazz musicians. The Band often collaborates with the Sanctuary Singers and the Children’s Choir to perform high-quality arrangements, but it also performs on its own. This venture is geared toward galvanizing and inspiring the congregation and fostering bonds among people of different generations and varying musical tastes. The House Band is a volunteer group, yet it plays on a professional level, demonstrating the immense talent at UUCSS. Contact Michael Holmes at musicdirector@uucss.org for further information.
Children’s Choir
The UUCSS Children’s Choir continues as a thriving group that performs normally for two to four services per year. The performances include the Intergenerational Holiday Service, Christmas Eve, Religious Education Sunday, and other special services and public performances. The young singers range in age from 5 to 12, and no audition is required. Members receive training during weekly rehearsals leading up to the performances. Contact Michael Holmes at musicdirector@uucss.org for further information.