Music

Chancel Choir

Janice Gibson, Zion's choir director, directs the 15-member adult choir. Accompanied by Renita Jarret, the members of the choir enhance and enrich worship at Zion.

Our Church Organ

In 1963, the congregation approved the purchase of a new Moller organ which cost $22,500.00. At that time the console was move to the pit in the choir loft where it is now. The new organ was dedicated in 1964 with the Rev. Walter Krebs as organist. For more information on the Moller organ see the Wikipedia page about its creator.

Zion has been blessed since its earliest days with music produced by a series of organs, and played by a long line of organists. Learn their history here.

Handbells

English Handbell ringing has been a part of worship at Zion UCC for almost 50 years. The original set of Whitechapel English Handbells was given to Zion by an anonymous donor, and they have been a beautiful addition to our worship services over the years. The original 3 octave set of bells came from the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London, England.

We later purchased additional bells from Schulmerich Bells in Sellersville, Pennsylvania. Over the years the bell choir has not only performed during worship at Zion, but we have played at church and civic events around the community. There were several original bell groups, a ladies group directed by Verna Meuler, a high school group and a junior high school group, both directed by Paul Bischoff. “Mr. B” directed the bells for many years and we certainly missed him when he retired.

Our numbers have fluctuated over the years but we continue to have a wonderful group, and we ring whenever we have the opportunity. We have had ringers of all ages and invite anyone with an interest in “making a joyful noise” to come join us.

Kindermusik

Kindermusik on the River, taught by Janice Gibson in space on the lower level of the church, offers music and movement classes for children newborn to 7 years and their families. Learn more at KindermusikOnTheRiver.kindermusik.net.