Dear Friends of Music,
Welcome to WSUMC’s New Music and Arts Ministry!
Welcome to the 2011-2012 Program Year! As many of you know, we will be combining our 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. service into one service now at 10 a.m. It is an exciting time to be worshiping together and I look forward to having our congregation all in one time and place. I hope you will be joining us for this new year of endless possibilities!
To encompass the various artistic talents of the WSUMC community, we now have two new offerings this year. One for music, the other, an Arts Ministry (see below). Our new music offering is the Orff Schulwerk Ensemble. Orff Schulwerk (pronounced Shool-verk), was a method of teaching created by composer, Carl Orff. It involves singing, moving and playing instruments. Originally created for children (Orff Schoolwork), this method ranges from the simplest parts to extremely complicated. The beauty of his music is that even the simplest pieces are quite beautiful and satisfying, much like the music of Aaron Copland was to American music. Orff Ensemble will be for ALL ages and skill levels! So, families can share music with their children, adults who enjoy music but who are uncomfortable singing and have not played an instrument before, can all enjoy making music together. It’s really difficult to do something wrong and beautiful sounds come so easily, therefore highly rewarding and inspiring. 
Orff Ensemble I (on hiatus until fall)
ALL Skill Levels and ALL Ages! Families included!
Sundays from 11:15-12:00 in the Choir Chancel or Choir Room
Arts Ministry
The mission of the Arts Ministry is to bring us closer together in worship as a congregation through the arts. Visual art, textiles and even drama may characterize this ministry, as it’s up to those talents that would like to be shared! Displays during worship to highlight themes or liturgical seasons, or interactive displays that stimulate the five senses, can bring to life the message worship and the season is communicating. If you are interested in learning more about this ministry, please contact Victoria (vshields@me.com), if you have a talent you would like to share or would just like to explore what this ministry can be for the life of our church. We will meet as a group as needed (not every week!), and based on a schedule that works for us. I look forward to sharing this exciting ministry with you!
Chancel Choir (on hiatus until fall)
This diverse group who enjoys ensemble singing of a variety of styles from traditional classical to spirituals, and modern day compositions. Besides singing together, this small group really enjoys each other’s company through fellowship time after rehearsals and other times during the week! If you enjoy singing (you don’t need to already be trained!), consider joining this great group of people! Contact Victoria (vshields@me.com) . We’d love to have you help us lead inspiring worship together!
Soloists and Small Ensembles
If you play an instrument, have an interest in singing solos, duets or other small ensembles, worship always has a need for these talents! They add another element to our worship that shows who we are as a congregation. If you have a gift you would like to share for worship, please contact Victoria. Sharing our talents is an awesome way to praise God and to lift up others in worship and song. There are dates available just waiting for you to fill them. Please consider sharing the gifts God has given you!
I wish you all a blessed back to school and church year and I look forward to making music with you for the glory of God!
Soli Deo Gloria,
Victoria Shields, Minister of Music
