Music Ministry

MUSIC

The worship experience at BUMC is enhanced by a diverse range of musical offerings and styles. The music serves as a vital component of the worship service, helping to create an atmosphere of reverence, joy, and community. The use of different musical genres and styles also reflects the diverse backgrounds and preferences of the congregation, fostering inclusivity and a sense of belonging for all members.

TRADITIONAL CHOIR

The first service is a traditional music service with a choral group, a handbell choir, a pipe organ, and a piano. The choral group rehearses weekly (September through May) on Sunday at 9:00 a.m. in the choir room on the lower level, and ministers every Sunday from September through May. From June through August, the summer choir rehearses 45 minutes before the service at which they minister.

Also, during the summer months, choir members may volunteer to sing solos, duets, or ensembles, with one or two rehearsals, including a rehearsal 45 minutes before the Sunday on which they sing. The handbell choir rehearses on Sunday at 8:15 a.m. in the choir room on the lower level and ministers during the Christmas and Easter seasons. Their summer break begins after they ring during Easter. Both choirs resume weekly rehearsals the week after Labor Day.

SOUNDS OF GRACE HANDBELL CHOIR

The handbell choir, rehearses every Sunday at 8:15 a.m. The rehearsals take place in the choir room located on the lower level of the church. The handbell choir is an integral part of the church's music ministry and performs during the Christmas and Easter seasons, adding a special musical touch to the Advent and Lenten services. Additionally, the choir members take a summer break after their performance during the Easter season. It is helpful, but not required, if you can read music or studied an instrument.

PRAISE CHOIR

Experience the vibrant energy of our 11:30 AM African Contemporary Worship Service, led by our talented Praise Band and Choir, directed by Winston Holt. This service is a joyous celebration, featuring a dynamic blend of hymns, praise music, and inspiring choral arrangements with a distinctive African style.

Join our diverse community for an uplifting time of worship and musical praise!

PRAISE BAND

The Praise Band, a skilled group of four, provides the musical backbone for our second service. Made up of a keyboardist, guitarist, drummer, and bass guitarist, the band expertly navigates a diverse range of styles, from contemporary gospel to traditional African music and beloved hymns. Together with our 16-member worship team, they guide us in a rich and varied worship experience.

BUMC MUSIC DIRECTORS

Joan Carey

Meet Joan Carey, our extraordinary first service music director! With an impressive 71 years of service, Joan has dedicated her life to filling our church with beautiful music. She finds her greatest joy in the majestic sound of the pipe organ, an instrument she believes is limitless in its creative potential. Joan's favorite verses, Psalm 150:3-6, perfectly capture her belief that every instrument, and every voice, has a place in praising the Lord.

WINSTON HOLT

Winston Holt, is the dynamic force behind our second service music! Winston is honored to be a part of the BUMC music department, and his passion shines through every Sunday. His favorite instruments: the Hammond organ or a grand piano. He believes we are all "kingdom builders" and is committed to lifting the banner of Christ by using his incredible gifts and talents.