The music program at Plainfield UMC embodies a spirit of service, fellowship, commitment, and involvement. From the newly-renovated carillon that calls us to worship, music supports our worship services in many ways, and involves both gifted volunteers, and professional performers. The Bell Choir and Chancel Choir energize and embellish the worship experience primarily in the 8:30AM service. Meditative organ preludes and uplifting organ solos by Kathleen Hermansen are complimented by other soloists, brass ensembles, string ensembles, and specialty performances. These all contribute to the musical diversity that makes worship at PUMC a special experience that touches spirits in exciting ways!
Chancel Choir welcomes singers of high school age and older to this SATB choral worship experience. Under the direction of John DeGroot, the choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 – 8:15pm, and prepares anthems that include diverse styles of music: from light masterworks to gospel, spirituals to Mozart ~ and up-tempo contemporary selections as well. Often accompanied on organ, piano, drums, bass guitar, and electronic instruments which add color and vitality to their presentations, they lead worship at the 8:30am service each Sunday morning.
In early 2012, PUMC welcomed the addition of a new Worship Band to the 11 am service. Led by Jason Hawkins, the Worship Band augments and enhances the musical offerings of the service with praise hymns, interpretations from The Faith We Sing hymnal, and other anthems. In addition to Mr. Hawkins providing vocals and guitar, band members include Chip Mackley (guitar), Tim Scates (piano), Mary Snydersmith (bass), and Eric Wellman (drums). Participation is welcome from others, including youth members.
The Bellissimo Handbell choir rehearses at 9 am on Saturday mornings in the sanctuary. Directed by Kelly Markwell, they provide special music at both 8:30 and 11 am services. The ensemble benefits from a wide spectrum of ages. Whether age fourteen or seventy-four, they ALL have a great time, and provide a real blessing to us on Sunday mornings when they share their gifts!
Enjoy this sample of the Bellisimo choir, performing “You Raise Me Up” (Loveland) on October 2, 2011, arranged by Kelly Markwell.
United 4 Him – Gospel-Style Men’s Quartet
United 4 Him is focused upon proclaiming the gospel and its promises through 4-part gospel music. Performing many Gaither Vocal Band arrangements as well as more traditional men’s quartet selections, this very talented ensemble consists of Larry Stephens (TI), Jason Hawkins (TII), John DeGroot (BI), and Kelly Markwell (BII).
The Junior Chimes rehearse on Wednesday evenings from September to May from 5:45-6:30pm. Directed by Janine Valkema, this group of 2nd graders through jr. high students provides special music at both the 8:30 and 11:00am services at various times throughout the year.
If you would like to learn more about the Music Ministry at PUMC, contact John DeGroot or call (815) 436-9651
