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 third grade through sixth grade. They rehearse Wednesdays during the school year from 5-6:00 pm, and sing in church monthly. In addition to preparing for the Sunday service, there is training in music reading and voice development. Along with the Primary Choir, they present an annual Lenten musical.

Concerts by the Pond

Inspired by our beautifully restored church and our intimate, historic, and scenic venue, Concerts by the Pond provides diverse programming and innovative live performances of classical, contemporary, and liturgical music, which, coupled with dynamic education programs, creates a sense of discovery and community within our St. John's parish and the citizenry of Cold Spring Harbor and surrounding region.

To learn more click here!