Music

At Boston Avenue

Share your gifts

At Boston Avenue, we believe that music, architecture, and the arts can be a means of experiencing God.

Music has the unique capacity to stir our emotions and bypass the limitations of verbal language. It reaches deep within our souls, resonating with our feelings of joy, sorrow, hope, and awe. It lifts us beyond the ordinary, creating a sacred space where we can encounter the divine. Music has the remarkable power to unify individuals, bringing them together in a collective experience of spirituality. 

You are invited to join Boston Avenue’s Music Ministry!

We have a fantastic range of opportunities for people of all ages.

Whether you want to sing, play an instrument, or simply enjoy great music, we have something for everyone. Get ready to experience the joy of making music together in this place!

Music opportunities

There are many music groups to join at Boston Avenue – we look forward to you adding your gifts and voice to the ensemble!

For Children

Through music, children learn the joy of worship, develop their creativity, cultivate teamwork, build confidence, and embrace the power of self-expression, all while deepening their understanding of God’s love and fostering a sense of belonging in a supportive and inclusive community. All children are welcome – get your child involved today!

For Youth

When participating in a music program, young people have the opportunity to explore their talents, express their emotions, cultivate leadership skills, forge lifelong friendships, and deepen their faith. It empowers them to worship with authenticity, contribute their unique gifts to the community, and navigate the challenges of adolescence with a strong foundation of supportive fellowship, love, purpose, and grace.

For Adults

Enhance your spiritual journey and foster a sense of community and growth through music ministry at Boston Avenue! Experience profound moments of worship and find solace, inspiration, and connection with God and others, all while deepening your faith and contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the church community. Whether you sing, ring, or play a musical instrument, we’d love to have you be a part of our music ministry family!

The Organ

The first organ at Boston Avenue Church was built by the Kilgen Organ Company in 1929 at a cost of $40,000. This 48-rank instrument was playable from an electric-action, four-manual console. The organ was dedicated on June 12 of that year by Albert Riemenschneider.

In 1961, Boston Avenue purchased a new pipe organ from the M. P. Möller Company of Hagerstown, Maryland. It featured 72 ranks of pipes playable from a four-manual console. In 1962, the Möller Company installed a 32′ Bourdon and three years later a 32′ Posaune was added. The organ was dedicated on February 20, 1962 by Robert Glasgow.

In 1986, the church approved a major organ expansion by the Möller Company. Exposed pipes were added in the sanctuary and a new four-manual console featured electro-pneumatic action and a solid state combination action. The organ was enlarged to 105 ranks encompassing seven different organ chambers. It also included a new Trompette-en-Chamade located in the ceiling above the balcony. This instrument was dedicated on February 28, 1988 by Fred Elder.

In 1995 a tonal revision project was begun with Daniel Angerstein of Grand Rapids, Michigan. This project was completed in 1999 with the addition of a new Trompette-en-Chamade.

In 2014, the electrical system of the organ was replaced with the Peterson ICS-4000, complete with 256 memory levels, midi control, sequencer, and many other features.

In 2017, the church contracted with the Foley-Baker Company of Tolland, Connecticut to rebuild the organ. This new, versatile instrument (4 manuals, 76 ranks, 63 stops, 256 memory levels, 4355 pipes) reflects a modern American tonal sensibility. Special emphasis was placed on adding richness and tonal depth to the foundational 8′ stops. In addition, the organ includes a colorful and diverse collection of reed choruses. The instrument also features beautifully distinctive solo stops such as a French Horn, two Harmonic Flutes, and an English Tuba. Approximately one half of the ranks are refurbished, revoiced Möller pipes, with the balance of the ranks being brand new.

Handbells

Boston Avenue Church purchased its first set of Whitechapel handbells in 1958. Currently, our five ensembles perform on a five-octave set of Malmark handbells, four large sixth-octave handbells (Bflat 2, G2, F2, & C2), and a four-octave set of Malmark choir chimes. In addition, the church owns two five-octave sets of Whitechapel handbells and one four-octave set of Malmark handbells.

 

Pianos

In addition to numerous Yamaha studio pianos, Boston Avenue musicians enjoy performing on numerous fine instruments including: a Steinway L, a Steinway A, a completely rebuilt seven-foot Steinway grand, two 6-foot Baldwin Bs, a Yamaha G, a seven-foot Vose, a nine-foot Knabe concert grand, and a La Petite baby grand. In addition, the church owns a beautiful Franco-Flemish Martin harpsichord.

Weekly Anthems

Enjoy some of our recent anthems shared during the weekly worship!

Be Transformed

Music in church serves as a powerful tool for teaching theology, as its lyrics and melodies convey profound truths and scriptural teachings in a way that engages both the mind and the heart. Through hymns and worship songs, we can internalize theological concepts and deepen our understanding of God’s character, love, and redemptive work.

Stay in Tune with our weekly newsletter!

The Harmony newsletter puts all of our music ensembles and ministries “on the same page,” with comprehensive schedule information, reminders, and other info for members of our Music Ministry family.

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises.

Psalm 98:4 NRSVUE