MUSIC AS MINISTRY
Congratulations to the winners of Woodfords Church Hymn Writing Contest - Anne McNair and Patrick Michaels!
In October of 2022, Woodfords announced a contest for a new hymn that would speak to the life of mission of our church community. As we celebrated the Church's 150th year, we requested a new song that expressed our mission statement: creating community, championing justice, and growing with God.
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We were so pleased to receive hymns from composers from all over the United States (including local submissions), Canada, and the United Kingdom.
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We were thrilled to choose two pieces of music. One which expresses the journey of worship and faith, and the second of mission, and the sharing into the community.
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Music is well said to be the speech of angels.
-Thomas Carlyle
Music lifts us up to embrace our connection to God and each other.
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Special musical guests and events abound at Woodfords, including: Portland String Quartet Sunday, Easter Brass and Tympani, Portland Trumpet Ensemble, Christmas Orchestra, guest youth bands, and more.
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The Music Department is under the direction of Paul Schnell. Paul directs the choirs, is the organist and coordinates all guest musicians. We enthusiastically welcome all those who would like to join us as we celebrate God through music.
CHANCEL CHOIR
The Chancel Choir sings each week at the 10 am Sunday worship service and for special services and events throughout the year. We do a variety of styles of music from Gospel to Classical to Contemporary. Open to all those from seventh grade through adults who find joy by expressing themselves through song.
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WOODFORDS RINGERS
The Woodfords Ringers Handbell Choir plays monthly at the Sunday worship service. Here is where rhythm really counts. You may only play two or three notes. But the question is “when;” it is a lot of fun being part of the Ringers team!
FAMILY ORCHESTRA
Our Woodfords Family Orchestra is now in their third year playing Advent and Christmas music. The orchestra consists of instrumentalists from Woodfords and the wider community of our friends. Ages range from middle school to middle age and beyond. All are welcome.
