Music at First Unitarian Church
At First Unitarian, our music program features a vibrant blend of lively contemporary tunes and performances by our exceptional choir, the Sanctuary Singers. This foundation of musical excellence is enhanced by adding guest musicians, including anything from guest artists from the Omaha Symphony, Celtic vocalists, and mariachi bands. We are proud of our diverse and engaging music!
The Sanctuary Singers
Building Community One Note At A Time
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The First Unitarian Sanctuary Singers is an all-volunteer SATB ensemble. Our mission is to provide each singer an opportunity to grow musically and spiritually and to have fun doing it. Guest instrumentalists often accompany the group on designated pieces. Under the direction of William Miller and accompanied by J Gawf, the Sanctuary Singers serve the First Unitarian Church community with a diversity of music to lift the spirits and enhance the worship experience. Contact our Choir Director William Miller at choirdirector@firstuuomaha.org
Join Us!
We welcome new singers and invite you to try us out. If you choose to join, the commitment is modest:
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The choir rehearses 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesdays from late August through early June.
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We sing two, occasionally three, services each month with a larger concert in May.
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Sanctuary Singers members are invited to lead the congregation in traditional carols during our Christmas Eve candlelight services.
We are a very sociable group. While many members have sung in the choir for 10, 15 or 20 plus years, we always offer a warm welcome and a helping hand to new singers.
Repertoire
Our growing repertoire embraces the full diversity of the human experience:
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Contemporary choral arrangements, including those by local and national Unitarian-Universalist composers
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Sacred choral classics from the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods, including anthems, chorales, masses, motets and opera choruses
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Gospel favorites, both classic and contemporary arrangements
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Folk music, including popular tunes and sacred hymns
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World music from Africa, Asia and Latin America embracing a variety of religious and cultural traditions
Our singers’ artistic versatility allows us to perform everything from ancient church chant to Fauré to spirituals to South African, jazz, and gospel songs.
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Music Opportunities
First Unitarian Church of Omaha features professional local musicians and performing artists during our non-choir Sundays. Instrumentalists from the Omaha Symphony are frequent guests at our services, as well as guests from other professional music organizations. We also feature talent from our inside our congregation as well, both as soloists and in a group setting, known as the Offbeats, as well as duets and trios. We also offer our beautiful sanctuary for rentals for recitals, concerts, and music recording. We have a beautiful Steinway grand piano, as well as a wonderful pipe organ. For information, please contact Judi Unger at music@firstuomaha.org.