O God, whom saints and angels delight to worship in heave: Be ever present with your servants who seek through art and music to perfect the praises offered by your people on earth; and grant tp them even now glimpses of your beauty, and make them worthy at length to behold it unveiled for evermore; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
–Book of Common Prayer
Music plays a vital role in the liturgical and spiritual life of our parish. The congregation expects and enjoys music with a high standard of quality. St. John’s is host to these musical groups:
- The Adult Choir
- The Children’s Choir
- The Evangelist Choir
- Youth Choir
- The Shepherd Band (Youth Instrumentalists)
- The Handbell Choir
- Artaria String Quartet (a professional ensemble in residence)
- The Ataria Chamber Music School (for high school students)
E.M. Skinner Organ
In the summer of 2008, work was completed on a four-year project to renew and restore our historic Skinner organ. The instrument was built in 1922 by E.M. Skinner, one of America’s foremost organ builders. The organ was updated in 1950 by M.P. Möller, and most recently by the Schantz Organ Company. During the restoration, all of the pipes were cleaned and revoiced to restore the instrument, as much as possible, to its original esthetic. A number of new ranks were installed, including a new Antiphonal Division in the balcony. This four manual instrument now has 55 ranks and a total of 3,455 pipes in six divisions. The success of the Organ Renewal Project has ensured that our legacy of fine church music will continue for many years to come. We are grateful for the many generous donations of money and time that helped make this project possible.
The Schantz Organ is featured in Pipedreams (MPR program) Organ Profile. See the Organ Profile for photos and program information.