“The covenant people have always used the gift of song to offer prayer… To lead the congregation in the singing of prayer is a primary role of the choir and other musicians. They also may pray on behalf of the congregation. Music as prayer is to be a worthy offering to God on behalf of the people.” – Book of Order, Presbyterian Church (USA)

Music is a very important part of life at SCAPC.  We offer a variety of opportunities to get involved, or just to enjoy a plethora of listening opportunities, as described below.

THE CHANCEL CHOIR

The Chancel Choir leads the music for 10:30 a.m. worship each Sunday, except six weeks in the summer. In addition, the ensemble has special performances, including Gospel Music Sunday and SCAPC’s annual Broadway Night. At least twice a year, Sunday morning worship centers on a choral masterwork with orchestral accompaniment: our Palm Sunday Music Service and our Celebration of Carols, held the Sunday before Christmas. The Chancel Choir works hard to bring quality music to the worship experience but believes in having fun during the process.

Rehearsals
Wednesday evening rehearsals run from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.  They also meet at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday to prepare for the 10:30 a.m. worship service. Additionally, two Saturday rehearsals are held to prepare for the Palm Sunday Music Service and the Celebration of Carols.

Auditions
To schedule an informal (painless!) audition, e-mail Director of Music Steven Blackmon or call (504) 897-0101 x125. We are always delighted to welcome new singers into the fold.

Children’s Choirs (Cherub Choir and the Ringers & Singers)

There are two opportunities for the youngsters of the church to join in celebration and worship through music. The Cherub Choir is open to children in Pre-K – 1st grade and rehearses on Sundays from 4:00-4:30 p.m. The Ringers & Singers group is open to children in 2nd – 5th grade and rehearses on Sundays from 4:30-5:00 p.m. To get involved, please e-mail Director Peggy Crain.

SCAPC Organs and Harpsichord:

Our Sanctuary has an Austin Organ (III/37) that was installed in 1980.  In addition to the main organ in the rear choir loft, there is a Chancel division that works well antiphonally or as an integral feature of the complete instrument.  There also is a trompette-en-chamade on the front wall of the Sanctuary that was installed in 1996. Our Chapel has a smaller organ that was built in 1996 by Peter Collins, Ltd. Of Leicester, England and J. Adrian Cook, POB, of Thibodaux, Louisiana. This organ has six stops and operates (with the exception of the wind supply) by mechanical action. We also have a harpsichord of Flemish design that was built by Richard Kingston of North Carolina. It utilizes two sets of strings at 8′ pitch which may be played separately or in combination, and is equipped with a “lute” stop. It plays normally at A415, but is able to convert to modern pitch as well, making it extremely useful as a solo or accompanying instrument. For more information with a complete specification of the sanctuary organ, visit neworleanschurches.com.