Nourishing souls and transforming lives through music
First UU is blessed with a robust music program featuring some of the best musical talent in Austin. The Adult Choir (ages 15 and up) is directed by Brent Baldwin, First UU’s Director of Music; a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and conductor. The Children’s Choirs are split into the elementary Children’s Choir (K-3rd) and the Youth Choir (4-8th). Click here to read about the children’s choir directors.
These leaders have extensive training and experience and have created a music program designed to help singers build their skills, as well as deepen their own personal worship experience by sharing their musical gifts with the congregation. Choir participation fosters dedication, community and teamwork while having a joyous time along the musical journey. Through the sharing of music in services, we aim to nourish souls and enhance the worship experience for both musician and congregant.
The three choirs often join together to form the First UU Intergenerational Choir, the largest and most dynamic intergenerational group in the church. Across all three choirs, singers learn about healthy vocal production, including resonance, projection, beautiful tone, and breath management. Together, choir participants collaboratively engage in a musical process of self-awareness, cooperation, community and creativity. All this, and you don’t even have to have prior choir experience to join — just a willingness and desire to sing!
The music program features an eclectic array of musical styles, drawing from classical, pop, world, and beyond. Collaborations with a wide variety of exciting instrumentalists and guest artists further enhance the quality of music provided by the choirs.
The Adult Choir rehearses on Wednesday nights from 6:45 p.m.-8:30 p.m. in the sanctuary, and sings for select morning services throughout the year (except summer). It provides our congregation a high level of vocal musical experience and the opportunity for personal expression of faith. Through the sharing of music in services, we aim to nourish souls and enhance the worship experience for both musician and congregant.
Our Children’s and Youth choirs meet Sundays during first service around 9:30 a.m. in Rm. 11 (Youth Choir, grades 4-9) and Rm. 13 A/B (Children’s Choir, grades K-3). Singers explore age-appropriate music that focuses on singing in the context of self-awareness, cooperation, and creativity. Each session culminates in multiple musical offerings showcased during both First UU Sunday morning worship services. There may be special musical offerings at other times during a session.
Not sure about participating in choir? Try out a rehearsal with no obligation!
