Music
Choir
The choir meets weekly for rehearsals on Thursdays from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. and every week leads the music of the Sunday service, presenting a wide variety of styles and genres. In addition, the choir presents a Festival of Lessons and Carols every December and a spring concert in May. Potential members are encouraged to join us for a few practices or sign up for a specified length of time before making a commitment if they so desire. No formal audition is required, but a brief consultation with the Director of Music is requested.
Handbells
With the handbell program at Port Nelson, many people have discovered an activity that is musical, educational, social, and just plain fun. At present there are three ensembles which rehearse on Mondays for one hour each, beginning at 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. respectively. We can always find room for more ringers, so if you think that you might like to give it a try, or would just like more information, please contact the Director of Music.
Performing Opportunities
Port Nelson United Church is blessed with an abundance of singers and instrumentalists who often share their talents with the congregation on Sunday mornings. Anyone who can sing or play is encouraged to contact the Director of Music to make plans to be part of one of our services.
Choral Scholarships
Every year, Port Nelson United Church awards one or more choral scholarships to students with musical ability. Applications for these scholarships may be made at any time throughout the year, and we are happy to receive applications from both secondary and post-secondary students, those receiving private music lessons, and from both instrumentalists and singers. Music does not necessarily have to be the applicants’ primary field of study. Application forms are available on request.
Children’s Ensemble
The Children’s Ensemble sings and plays hand chimes during worship services periodically throughout the year. It is operated as one of the children’s ministries and led by Tania Laurie. All children are most welcome to participate.
The Port Nelson Organ
The pipe organ in Port Nelson United Church was built in 1962 by Casavant Frères of Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec. It has fifty-five ranks of pipes distributed among five divisions, with three manuals and pedals.
The Port Nelson Piano
The grand piano is a beautiful and well-maintained Yamaha Model C7 which is appreciated by many performers for concerts and recordings.