Since the beginning of Biblical history, God’s people have used music as a vital part of their worship experience. In the Old Testament, God molded music and worship into a glorious union. At First Congregational UCC we offer a wonderful music program led Christy Dunsmoor. For more on Christy please see our staff page! There are many ways in which you can participate in our music program. Or if you would like, just sit back and experience the music.
The Choir - The choir is organized, directed, and accompanied by our Music Director, Christy Dunsmoor. Choir sings regularly two Sundays each month. They practice an hour before the services and occasionally earlier when needed. Our choir sings two to three times during the service, for the Prepare, Special Music, and for Communion if and when that is given. Practice is held at 9:00 a.m. on Sundays and service is at 10:00 a.m. Occasionally, the choir will meet at 8:30 a.m. to allow for some other rehearsal time. The choir is held during a normal school year - September through May. All are welcome to join and sing praise onto the Lord.
The Bell Choir - We have a very dedicated volunteer bell choir that leads music one Sunday each month. The bell choir has an amazing sound and really gets us prepared for worship. They meet every Monday evening for rehearsal from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Children's Music - The Sunday school program offers music for our students. The students sing and can also play in a children's bell choir. A few times a year, they will sing and/or play the bells in the adult service. It is a wonderful time when they do this! We are blessed to have wonderful Sunday school teachers who help them - awesome job!
“I am strongly persuaded that after theology, there is no art that can be placed on the level with music. For besides theology, music is the only art capable of affording peace and joy of the heart.”
-Martin Luther
Solos, duets, dance, etc... - Whenever possible we encourage other artists to share their talents as well. Whether it be instrumentalists, vocalists, dance etc... Each month there is a Sunday set aside for our members or family and friends of members to come in and share their God-given gifts with the congregation.
Hand Bell Choir
Music Director
Christy Dunsmoor
Hello! Is that your voice I hear?
Or are you playing an instrument?
Whether we have a specific musical talent or not, we are all instructed to worship the Lord with ALL of our hearts. We can all “make a joyful noise!” Here at First Congregational, we offer a variety of venues that you can be involved with honoring God through music.
As the Music Director, I play for the Sunday morning church services, lead and direct the choir, play for special services, and organize music for our Thursday evening contemporary service. As you can see, there is a variety of music offered and special appropriate requests are welcomed! I have truly
appreciated the opportunity to be here, and thank you to all of you who have participated in the music!
Music has been a part of my life since I was very young. I began with tap and jazz dance classes, and was soon introduced to organ lessons. I began to play for church while I was still in grade school. From there, I joined the band playing clarinet. Soon, I began playing piano and dancing in the show choir! During college, I continued to dance (more for fun,) played the keyboards, and received a scholarship for clarinet to play in the orchestra. After college, I continued to play on worship teams for church, accompany musicians, sing, and now teach private music lessons.
My work experience continues to expand. I presently hold three degrees; two Bachelors and a Masters Degree. I am also a licensed minister through the NCCC and ordained through a local ministry. My fields include fine art, music, math, and ministry/Bible. I work part-time in related areas such as a Framer/Designer at Ambrosius Framing and Photo Studio, a teacher at Providence Academy, and a private instructor for both piano and art classes. For a few years, I taught as an adjunct faculty member at St. Norbert College in the Art Department, worked in marketing for a local chiropractor, and worked as the Props Manager for the St. Norbert summer Music Theater.
There is Special Music offered at most of our services:
- Twice a month our choir sings
- Once a month our bell choir plays
- Once a month a Sunday is used to give people the opportunity to do solos, duets, etc.
- We also offer children's bell choir for our young worshipers.
I have MANY interests and love being outdoors. I enjoy reading, writing, drawing, painting, . . . should I continue? I enjoy traveling, visiting friends and family, and learning about staying healthy. I enjoy camping, solitude, and learning about Jesus Christ. Thank you Lord! For saving me, healing me, setting me free, and giving me that free gift of eternal life! John 3:16 God bless you all as you continue on the journey of life!
And if you are interested in singing, playing, or sharing a musical gift, please let me know! I look forward to hearing from you!
Thank you kindly!
Christy
All Are Welcome!
First Congregational Church UCC 1018 Cedar Street De Pere, WI 54115 Phone: 920-336-4038 Fax: 920-964-1080
No matter who you are, or where you are on life's journey, you're welcome here.
Jesus didn't reject people.
Neither do we.
