Youth Music Ensemble! Rehearsals are part of Youth Wednesdays, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m., resuming September 16, and are open to all 6th-12th graders regardless of prior experience. Sign up below.
We have a predictable schedule of carefully structured rehearsals, designed to progressively build skills. Rigorous preparation enables freedom to lead worship music with confidence, including adapting and improvising when appropriate.
We welcome and celebrate the contributions of students with a variety of backgrounds, identities, and experience levels; anyone willing to make the commitment to show up for rehearsals can be part of the team. The music we make together draws from a rich diversity of styles and genres across cultures. Any voice or instrument can find a place in our ensembles. No prior experience necessary—really!
Students grow together in community with each other, and have opportunities to learn from and make music alongside experienced professional musicians.
IS SIGNING UP REQUIRED? — YES. We require students to sign up so that we can prepare a place for them in our structured rehearsal environment, including providing them with all necessary printed materials (sheet music, etc.), seating, part assignments, clear goals and expectations, and a high-quality custom printed t-shirts!
CAN ANYONE REALLY JOIN, EVEN WITHOUT PRIOR EXPERIENCE? — YES. Since sign-ups are required, we can plan repertoire and part assignments that are developmentally appropriate for the abilities of each student, and we specialize in including students of all skills and experience levels, together in a cohesive ensemble. Friends and neighbors who do not regularly attend Abiding Presence are also welcome to join, as long as they sign up!
CAN I TRY YOUTH MUSIC ENSEMBLE BEFORE COMMITTING? YES. Fill out the sign up form above and just add a note in the “Notes” area specifying that you wish to try a rehearsal before committing to becoming a regular member of the group. We’ll help you find the right place for your gifts and interests.
CAN I PARTICIPATE EVEN IF I CANNOT MAKE IT TO EVERY REHEARSAL? — YES. Just email Dr. Dave to let him know (ahead of time if at all possible) when you need to miss a rehearsal or miss a time we’ve planned to play in church. This helps us plan ahead to use our rehearsal time efficiently and make sure to maintain a high-quality experience for the rest of the group.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN INSTRUMENT? — IT DEPENDS. If your primary instrument is voice, just bring yourself! If you primarily play a band or orchestra instrument that is portable (like trumpet, viola, or bassoon), you should plan to bring your own instrument. If you play piano/keyboard/organ or most percussion (e.g. drum set, glockenspiel), you do not need to bring your own instrument. If in doubt, ask Dr. Dave (dave@abidingpresence.net).
