The Music Program
The music program at Westminster First Congregational is an integral part of the church’s culture, and has been ongoing for over 200 years. Over time, a number of Directors of Music, Organists, and Organist-Choir Directors have led the church’s music program. Thanks to the record keeping of the church’s Office of History we know that our first choir was formed in 1773 – some 252 years! It wasn’t until 1795 that a musical instrument was allowed in the sanctuary, as they were quite strict (and conservative) in those days. It was about this time that Squire Abel Wood formed the first Singing School. “This early choir was quite large, some thirty or forty members strong, with an exceptionally good reputation for its musical ability.” Over the years, the Sanctuary Choir has ebbed and flowed with societal changes, epidemics and pandemics, and social issues. Presently, we are rebuilding an adult choir and a children’s choir. Here is a list of music leaders at First Congregational:
The Church Organ
The church houses an Allen Renaissance organ in its sanctuary. The Allen Organ was purchased in 2003 and features an antiphonal system in the rear of the church, a wide variety of solo stops, including chimes, harp, and celeste. The organ is capable of articulating English, French, German, Italian, and American repertoire. Though electronic, if provides the equivalent of ___ ranks housed in three divisions. And two keyboards. A list of stops can be seen by clicking this link: Renaissance Organ Stop List.
Bells
Various pianos have been utilized by the church, the most recent one in was donated in1986 as a memorial gift from Muriel (Beers) Wagner,
The Legacy of Music at Westminster First Congregational
Introduction
The music program at Westminster First Congregational stands as a vital element of the church’s identity. For more than two centuries, music has played a central role in the congregation’s worship experience, reflecting a rich tradition and deep-rooted cultural significance within the church community.
Early Beginnings
The origins of the church’s music program can be traced back over 200 years. Historical records maintained by the church’s Office of History reveal that the first choir was established in 1773—marking over 250 years since music began to shape worship at Westminster First Congregational. In the early years, the community maintained strict and conservative practices; it was not until 1795 that a musical instrument was permitted in the sanctuary!
The Formation of the Singing School
Around the time musical instruments were first introduced, Squire Abel Wood organized the first Singing School. This early choir was notably large, boasting thirty to forty members, and quickly gained an outstanding reputation for its musical excellence in middle Massachusetts.
Evolution Through the Years
Throughout its history, the Sanctuary Choir has experienced numerous changes, adapting to shifts in society, navigating the challenges of epidemics and pandemics, and responding to various social issues. The choir’s resilience is a testament to the enduring importance of music within the church.
Recent Developments
In the present day, efforts are underway to rebuild both the adult choir and the children’s choir in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The commitment to revitalizing these ensembles highlights the continuing dedication to fostering musical expression within the congregation.
Music Leadership Since the Mid-20th Century
Over the decades, Westminster First Congregational’s music program has been shaped and guided by a succession of talented Directors of Music, Organists, and Organist-Choir Directors. Their leadership has played a pivotal role in sustaining and advancing the church’s musical excellence.
Recent History of Music Directors and Organists
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1948 - 1956: Florence Grimes
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1956 - 1957: Sherman Hall
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1957 - _____: Mrs. Everett Daulton
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1987 - 1990: Dr. Marjorie Ness
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1995 - 2009: George Matthew
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2010 - 2012: Ashley Garafolo
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2012 - 2023: Chris Berquist