An Invitation to Make Music
Music is an important part of worship and is integral to the life of Shallowford. We are proud of our rich tradition, yet continue to explore new things. Whether you enjoy music from the pews during worship or you participate by singing, ringing, or playing an instrument, we hope that music helps you encounter the mystery of God.
Choirs for Every Age
All music lovers are invited to join Shallowford’s music ministry. Our choirs serve as small groups for spiritual and musical growth, following a “church music school” approach that nurtures musicians of all ages. Children learn musical skills, grow into responsible young musicians, and often return to share their gifts as adults. With opportunities for every age, we invite your entire family to make music at Shallowford.
Adults
The Chancel Choir is the primary worship-leading choir of Shallowford, bringing together singers of all backgrounds and skill levels in a spirit of excellence and community. The choir sings in 11 AM worship weekly and regularly presents choral works with orchestra, ranging from Handel’s Messiah to Rutter’s Requiem for the Living. Repertoire spans classical masterworks, hymn arrangements, gospel, jazz, and more. In addition to rehearsals and performances, the choir shares in fellowship through retreats and social gatherings.
This choir rehearses in the sanctuary on Thursdays from 7:15 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and is under the direction of the Director of Music Ministries.
Adults
The Joy Chorale is a welcoming daytime choir for adults seeking fellowship and meaningful music-making. The ensemble sings a wide variety of repertoire, offering music in worship and special events throughout the year. This choir is ideal for retirees, stay-at-home parents, or anyone whose schedule makes daytime music ministry a perfect fit.
This choir rehearses in the Choir Room on Mondays, August through May, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and is under the direction of Lynn Rogers.
Adults
The Shallowford Schola is a chamber choir of auditioned singers selected from the Chancel Choir. Specializing in plainchant, polyphony, and other a cappella works requiring precise musicianship, the Schola serves to enhance worship by expanding the styles of music featured in Shallowford’s worship services. The ensemble sings at both the 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. worship services on the first Sunday of each month.
The Shallowford Schola rehearses (as needed) in the sanctuary following the Chancel Choir rehearsal on Thursdays and is under the direction of the Director of Music Ministries.
Grades 6—12
The Chapel Choir is Shallowford’s vibrant youth choir, welcoming more than 45 students from across Atlanta. Singers of all skill levels come together to develop their voices, build lasting friendships, and share the joy of music. The choir leads in worship throughout the year, participates in holiday services and fundraising events, and embarks on an annual summer tour.
This choir rehearses in the choir room Sundays from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and is under the direction of the Director of Music Ministries.
Grades 3—5
As leaders within the Children’s Choir program, the Westminster Choir helps guide worship through anthems, concerts, and the annual spring musical. Singers strengthen their musical literacy, expand their vocal skills, and begin learning to sing in harmony while growing in faith and friendship.
This choir rehearses Wednesdays, September through May, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Joyful Noise Room and is under the direction of the Director of Children’s Choirs.
Grades K—2
The Trinity Choir nurtures young voices as children take foundational steps in music-making and worship leadership. Singers learn to match pitch, read simple rhythms and melodies, and sing in unison while preparing music for worship throughout the year.
This choir rehearses in the Joyful Noise Room on Wednesdays, September through May, from 5:15 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and is under the direction of the Director of Children’s Choirs.
Ages 3—Kindergarten
The Cherub Choir introduces our youngest singers to the joy of music and worship. Through singing, movement, instruments, and storytelling, children learn to use their voices, keep a steady beat, and praise God with joy. Weekly gatherings include music, a Bible story, a craft, and fellowship.
This choir rehearses in the Joyful Noise Room on Sundays, following the Time With Young Disciples in 11:00 a.m. worship and is under the direction the Director of Children’s Choirs.
Grades 6—12
The Shallowford Bell Choir offers youth the opportunity to grow musically while contributing a vibrant and unique sound to worship. Open to students of all skill levels, this ensemble rehearses diligently and performs in worship and special services throughout the year.
This choir rehearses in the sanctuary on Wednesdays, September through May, from 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. and is under the direction the Associate Director of Music & Organist.
Grades 3—5
The Westminster Bell Choir provides children with a fun and engaging introduction to handbells. No prior experience is required, but early commitment in the fall helps singers build musical skills progressively. By the year’s end, members can confidently read handbell music and perform in worship.
This choir rehearses in the sanctuary on Wednesdays, September through May, from 5:15 PM to 6:00 PM and is under the direction of Jinhee Kim, Associate Director of Music & Organist.
Music Staff
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Annual Traditions
Youth Choir Tour
Every summer Shallowford’s Youth Choir embarks on a 10-day tour across the United States. As part of the Chapel Choir ministry, the annual summer choir tour nurtures young Christians as they learn about God together with their peers and witness with communities.
Evergreen Fundraiser
Each fall, youth help manage the orders, sales, and pick up of fresh evergreen trees, wreaths, and roping brought to Shallowford straight from a North Carolina tree farm at the start of the Christmas season. A portion of the proceeds goes back to the choir to help fund instruments and equipment, as well as upcoming tours.
Sounds of Christmas
It has become tradition that each December, Shallowford’s Music Ministry hosts a Christmas concert featuring an instrumental ensemble, paid soloists, and Shallowford’s combined choirs of all ages. This community event welcomes people of all ages and stages!
Virtual Classroom
Children are invited to join Ms. Anne in her virtual online music classroom anytime! Click the items in the room to hear music clips and even practice reading different music examples.