Music

"I will be glad and rejoice in You; I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High." (Psalm 9:2)  

The song of the church is a song of prayer. Through our music ministry, the people of Woodridge United Methodist Church answer the call of Christian commitment through the leadership of music in worship. Choir members of all ages demonstrate their pledge to God and to each other by engaging people in the magnificent event of worship. All who enjoy singing or playing an instrument are welcome!

 

 

Music Ministry and Football Inspirations?          

by: Annie Sloka

“Each one should use whatever gifts he has been given to serve one another faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms” 1 Peter 4:10

As I watched the playoffs recently, I thought about how so many of the winning teams have not only 1st string talent, but equally valuable bench strength. And while I can honestly say we’ve got some really amazing gifts here, I’m quite certain that there are some who aren’t even on the team (yet).  Not everyone has to be a superstar, but each player enhances the strength of the team with their encouraging presence.

As I look ahead to how we can embrace the gifts we have as a body, and how I can help provide opportunities for the unique and special talents each of you may have, I may have to think outside of the box a bit.  If the Holy Spirit is nudging you to lift your voice in song, or share your musical gifts, please know that we have a place for you! 

 

Angel Choir/Band (K-5th grade)

We’ve been busy behind the scenes getting ready to share our latest song “Trust in the Lord” on January 29th.  Flute, Oboe, Violin, Viola, Ukulele, and a few other instruments will help us share the message as we lift our voices in song. Have you been thinking about checking us out?  Come see what we’re up to on Tuesday nights from 6:00-6:45.  Our next song will include some South African lyrics and drums!

 

Choir (8th grade and up)

We are praying for more bench strength and support as we gear up for a very touching and tender Tenebrae service for Good Friday. We need all hands on deck for this challenging 8 song cantata contemplating Christ’s sacrifice for us. Come join us on Thursday evenings from 7:30-8:30 for a time of fellowship, prayer and lifting our voices together in song!

 

Brass Choir. (7th grade and up)

Easter is just around the corner, and we’re planning to include Brass in our Easter services.  If you are interested in joining us (or in coming back), please let me know! If you’re feeling rusty, or a little unsure, please know that we will provide custom parts to fit your range, ability and comfort level! Sundays after 2nd service practice will resume on March 11 for Easter.

 

Worship Band Guitar, Bass, Drums, Keyboard, and Vocals.  

Need we say more? With the pilot 5:00pm service, as well as, our monthly morning service opportunity, we can use more help in each of these areas. If a more contemporary or alternate style is your cup of tea, grab a mug and join us Tuesday evenings from 7:00-8:30 PM. 

 

Bell Choir 

Under the direction of the talented Ingrid Mueller, this wonderful opportunity meets on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 PM.  If you’ve never tried bells before, you don’t know what you’re missing!

 

Out-of-the-box

Do you have a musical gift that doesn’t quite fit in the categories above?  Let me know!.  Ukelele?  Hammered Dulcimer?  Violin?  Glee-style vocal choir?  Who knows where exploring a new song to the Lord could lead.  Contact me at Anniesloka@aol.com or stop me on a Sunday if you have questions or ideas.

 

 

The Parable of Ice Cream and Music                         

by: Annie Sloka

What do ice cream and music have in common? 

When it comes to music during worship, I find it has helped me to remember that music is sometimes like ice cream:  The flavors are many, and there is something for everyone, but often times you’ll find that not everyone enjoys every flavor in the same way.  Sometimes a simple chocolate scoop is just right, and other times, you need a  banana split with extra cherries on top to fit the need.  The good news is, if you taste a flavor that just isn’t your cup of tea, it is fairly likely that another flavor will come your way the next time around.  I have also learned that if I ordered something that wasn’t quite right for me, I still get the pleasure of enjoying watching others as they enjoy their favorite scoop!

The opportunities in music ministries are many, and a variety of ingredients (you!) can help make new and exciting flavors! 

Angel Choir/Band - Tuesdays 6:00 to 6:45pm

Worship Band - Tuesdays 7:00 to 8:30pm

Handbell Choir - Thursdays 6:30 to 7:30pm

Chancel Choir - Thursdays 7:30 to 8:30pm

Brass Choir (seasonal)

Please contact me if you have a gift or talent that you’d be willing to throw into the mix!

In Christ,
Annie Sloka
 

Chancel Choir

Chancel Choir is composed of approximately 20 individuals, all with varying levels of talent. We perform at the 10:30am service 3-4 Sundays a month and at both services on holidays and special occasions.  Last year, we performed the cantata "Praise the God of Resurrection," with the help of high school and college students from the area.  This year, we plan to sing a Christmas cantata, which will be performed before the 10:30 pm Christmas Eve Service...but don't let these performances intimidate you.  This is the perfect opportunity for you to experience complex choral singing in a relaxed, supportive setting!  Come join us, and continue to rehearse with us every Thursday from 7:30-8:30 pm in the Music Room. 

 

Bell Choir

If you are interested in learning to play bells, please join us and we will learn together! If you have any questions, feel free to call Ingrid Mueller at 630/968-6198.


Worship Band

If you love music, but prefer a more modern twist to worship, come check out our Worship Band!  Originally titled "Youth Worship Band," this group is expanding and is now open to musicians of every age.  We currently play guitar, bass, and drums, and are eager to welcome other musicians (and even other instruments) into our group.  The performance schedule of this group revolves around the academic schedule of the students in the group.  During the school year we perform at both services on one Sunday every other month.  During summer vacation, the demand is higher, performing in both services practically every Sunday. This group will provide you with the opportunity to experience a contemporary style of musical worship.  Rehearsals take place every Tuesday at 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary.  
 
 
Angel Choir

Sing with friends and perform the music you love once a month during the Children’s Conversation at both services.  Rehearsals take place on Tuesdays at 6:00pm throughout the school year.  The Angels performs periodically throughout the year at the 9:00am and 10:30am service.

 

God's Sparklers Interpretive Dance Group

Dance to your favorite worship music with your friends, and learn new techniques from an experienced dancer!  Our interpretive dance group is open to all ages. Rehearsals take place on Mondays at 5:00pm throughout the school year. Please contact Deonne Senese for further information.

 

For more information about our Music Ministry, please contact Music Director, Annie Sloka.