parkdale united church

429 Parkdale Avenue, OTTAWA, Ontario K1Y 1H3

Music

 
Here at Parkdale United Church we have a thriving musical community that has something for everyone. The various music groups begin rehearsals following the Labour Day weekend and finish at the end of June. Music has always been an important part of our worship service. Whether you’re a complete stranger to us, passing through or already one of us, we welcome your talents. We’re sure that one of the following groups will be just the right fit for you.

Singers Needed!

Join your fellow singers for Easter Sunday with a brass group and later in May for Anniversary Sunday with the Parkdale Orchestra. Rehearsals will begin on Thursday, March 22nd at 7:30 pm.

The Choir

We have about twenty members that regularly attend Thursday evening rehearsals beginning at 7:30 pm. Music leadership is provided each Sunday morning in order to enhance the worship life of the congregation; this takes the form of weekly anthems and occasional special choral presentations. If you have an interest in singing then we welcome you to join us for a rehearsal.

Worship Team

If you're looking for contemporary music then this group is for you! Don't worry if you can't read music. We're an informal group with about a dozen members and we meet most Thursday evenings at 7:30 pm. For more information call Melodee at 613-728-8656.

Join Us !

Do you like to sing or play an instrument? Maybe you know someone who does.
We’re looking for musicians who enjoy all styles of music to share their talents with the congregation. Maybe you play the guitar, drums or keyboards in a garage band. Maybe you sang in a group when you were younger or even took accordion lessons. This is your opportunity to shine.
Perhaps you’ve always wanted to participate in the musical life at Parkdale but were not sure how you could contribute. You may even have felt that you didn’t have the time to devote.
Don’t worry about that. We can help. Call the Church office today (613-728-8656) to leave your name and phone number. We’re looking for people who love to share their talents - Help us to build a strong and vibrant ministry of music at Parkdale.

Hand Chimes Choir

A few years ago, we were able to purchase a two octave set of chime bells through the generosity of a bequest from Grace Earnshaw. The chimes are great to work with as they have the advantage of being more durable than traditional "gold" bells and much easier to transport as they all fit into one big suitcase. We usually rehearse in six-week blocks leading up to our performances during the worship service. Playing in this kind of choir requires intense concentration as every person has an important note to play. Each individual is needed to create complete melody and harmony. We are working to increase our repertoire so that we may add to the worship service more often.

The Parkdale Orchestra

In 1945 Cliff Templer, the church organist and choir director, formed a small ensemble consisting of three violinists and a pianist to play at church services once a month. Not long after, the choir and "orchestra" went to Carleton Place to give a concert, which necessitated more players and a conductor. A clarinetist, oboist, cellist, and bass player were soon found, and the first violinist, Stuart Morris, became the conductor for the occasion.

From this small group the orchestra has grown to its present size of more than fifty players.
There have been several exciting events and projects in the orchestra's history. In 1951, when Memorial Hall was opened, the orchestra held a fundraising concert to purchase a piano.

The players in the orchestra are of all ages and from all walks of life, and are always looking for more musicians to join them. The orchestra's members, explain that anyone who falls into the category "amateur" - one who loves music - of any age, or any profession is welcome to join the orchestra.

To visit the orchestra’s website click here: www.parkdaleorchestra.ca

Featured Soloists and Groups

We have been blessed with fine musicians through the years. Soloists regularly share their talents with the congregation. If you have a musical talent and would like to share it with the Parkdale family please email the Church office pdale@trytel.com or call 613-728-8656.