Choir Director and Organist: Linda Tooley

Music is central to the Ministry at the First Congregational Church. Music helps us come closer to God. With our music ministry, we seek to present a variety of musical experiences that glorify God.

First Congregational Choir:
The choir, under the direction of Linda Tooley and the Music Committee oversee a group of volunteers joined in song. The Choir sings each Sunday at the 10:30 a.m. service. The choir rehearses on Thursday evenings from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Anyone interested in joining and has a basic knowledge of sight reading music is welcome to join.

Cherub Choir:
Music is an integral part of the Church Life.  The Cherub choir is an age-appropriate group that meets after church for 20 minutes. Snack and beverage are provided prior to rehearsal.  The Cherub Choir performs in worship several times during the year. The Cherub Choir leaders are Carol Bailey and Karen Lenthall.

Awaken
AWAKEN! is a praise band that has been leading contemporary worship services at the First Congregational Church of Gardner for more than nine years. The band has gone through many changes over the years but presently is made up of five individuals: Victor Gartner, vocals and guitar; Carol Bailey, keyboard and vocals; Doug Glover, bass; Naida Johnson, percussion and vocals; and Dedee Williams, vocals. As a worship team, our mission, through music, words and prayer, is to share the word and love of God. We seek to touch God's spirit within ourselves and within those who come to worship with us.
AWAKEN! is available to lead worship services at other churches in the Northern Worcester County area and can be reached by calling 978-630-1182.

Soundings Handbell Choir
The First Congregational  Ringers, under the direction of Pat Darby, perform on 5 octaves of Malmark English handbells and 2 octaves of Choirchimes. They have been playing at the First Congregational Church for 28 years this year. If you are interested in joining us, please contact the office. All you need is an ability to count time and willing heart.  The Ringers rehearse at scheduled rehearsals prior to performance dates. Most performances are for the 10:30 AM  Service on special Sundays in the Church calendar.

Music Committee
Purpose: The Committee shall supervise the music ministry of the Church and shall be responsible for the hiring and direction of a Music Director.
Membership:  The Committee shall consist of three people, one to be elected annually for a term of three years.
Meeting: The Music Committee does not schedule regular meetings. Instead they meet faithfully at choir practice.