Music Ministry at First Unitarian
Nothing moves the heart and spirit like music. At First Unitarian Church, we are blessed by music, lifting us up individually while joining us in community. Whether congregational singing of familiar hymns, or choral and special music, selections are made to enhance the theme of the service.
UU Choir
The UU Choir performs once or twice each month, as well as for a special December service. Rehearsals are Thursday evenings (August - May) at the church from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Special Music of instrumental and vocal performances is offered by church volunteers and guest professional musicians. All are welcome to join these musical experiences. Contact Director of Music, Moira Leu, for details at music@ucdsm.org or 244-8603 ext. 105
Bell Avenue Ringers
This multi-generational, musically motivated group of handbell ringers of all ages join in making beautiful music. Bell Avenue Ringers rehearse on Thursday evenings from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. Newcomers to the group are welcomed. Find out more by contacting Karen Kraemer, Director, at kbkraemer@yahoo.com or 515-422-8704.
UU Flames Choir
The newest addition to our musical experience is the UU Flames choir. This group of youth and young adults consist of 7th-12th graders who rehearse on Wednesday nights from 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Newcomers to the group are welcomed. This group is on hiatus until after the UU Children's Theater production in March. Find out more by contacting Karen Kraemer, Director, at kbkraemer@yahoo.com or 515-422-8704.
Chalice Choir
All children in 2nd - 6th grades are invited to sing in the Chalice Choir. Chalice Choir rehearses Wednesday evenings from 6:00 to 6:45 p.m. in the Auditorium. For additional information, please contact Chalice Choir Director, Moira Leu at music@ucdsm.org or 515-244-8603 ext. 105.
The Sparks
All children ages 4 - 1st grade are invited to sing with The Sparks (formerly known as Fifth Principle Singers). The Sparks rehearse on Wednesdays from 6:00 to 6:45 p.m. For additional information, please contact The Sparks Director, Jennifer Senne at jennifersenne@gmail.com or 515-279-5665.
The dUUdes
dUUdes is the house band at First Unitarian Church of Des Moines. They promote the UU Seven Principles through the popular music of the 20th and 21st centuries, as well as members’ original songs. The band’s core consists of founding members Doug Hoffman (guitar, bass, vocal), John Morrow (guitar, harmonica, vocal), and CW Smith (guitar, bass, percussion, mandolin, vocal). As arrangements dictate and schedules permit, the dUUdes are occasionally joined by other musicians. Anyone is welcome to sit in with or join the dUUdes. Please contact Moira Leu, Director of Music for more information: music@ucdsm.org or 515-244-8603 ext. 105.
Vocal Ensemble
The Vocal Ensemble consists of 7-10 singers invited from the choir and the general congregation to perform occasionally throughout the year. Drawing on a variety of musical types and sources, including original arrangements, the Ensemble rehearses mostly on Thursdays preceding performance dates. Directed by Bruce Martin.
Bruce Martin, Pianist
The musical talents of First Unitarian member Bruce Martin are demonstrated whenever he is at the keyboard of the auditorium’s grand piano. His musical versatility surprises and delights all, whether he is accompanying congregational singing or one of the church choirs; joining in concert with frequent guest musical performers on stage, or in his virtuoso solo performances.