Music

Music is an important part of the ministry at St. John's Church, helping to make every church service a joyous and beautiful occasion. From the enthusiastic singing of hymns by the congregation, to the choirs and handbell choirs, there are opportunities for all ages to become involved in the music ministry at St. John's. The program is led by our Director of Music, Bryce Westervelt and Organist, Dr. Carol Weitner.
Anyone who is interested in joining a group, or has a child wishing to participate, please contact either the church office or the staff member directly. Church membership is not necessary to participate in the music program.
Chancel Choir
The Adult Choir is open to all singers from high school age and older. A hard-working and talented group of volunteers, they prepare two anthems for each Sunday service from September into June. The anthems represent a wide variety of sacred music, from Renaissance motets to spirituals. They also present special programs annually throughout the year including Evensong services and a Bach cantata, with soloists and period instruments, during a Sunday service in May. The choir rehearses from 7:30-9:00 pm, Thursday evenings. We are happy to welcome new members
Handbell Choir
The Handbell Choir performs during the Sunday service several times throughout the year. The church is pleased to have a set of Whitechapel English handbells, by the maker of the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia. The group is open to all, from 4th grade through adult, who have some musical background, although experience playing handbells is not necessary. Rehearsals are held Thursdays at 5:00 pm.
Junior Choir
The Junior Choir is open to children from second grade through sixth grade. They rehearse Wednesdays during the school year from 5-6:30 pm, and sing in church monthly. In addition to preparing for the Sunday service, there is training in music reading and voice development the Royal School of Church Music's Voices for LIfe curriculum. The Junior Choir annually presents a Lenten musical on the fourth Sunday in Lent.
Concerts by the Pond
Concerts by the Pond presents the best of classical, contemporary, and liturgical music in the historic setting of St. John’s Church. The series, with a special emphasis on the new Casavant organ, is committed to expanding St. John’s spiritual and musical presence in the greater community. Programs feature a range of artists, from established professionals to highly talented young musicians, in innovative and informative concerts for all ages. For more information click here or call 516-692-6368 ext. 5.
Most Recent Music Posts:
Handbell Choir
Lift Every Voice and Sing: The Details
LEVAS music coaching sessions (Deadline for signing-up is Oct. 22nd)
Virtual Congregation Musical Offering
We Are St. John's Music Ministry
Greetings from Jun Kim, Director of Music
Welcome Jun Kim!
"The Lord's Prayer" sung by Irene Gubrud, Soprano
Oyster Bay Music Festival Concert at St. John's
Calling All Musicians: Third Annual Summer Music Festival