Music

Music is an important part of worship at Neighborhood Church. We sing together during services, accompanied by a piano or organ. Neighborhood Choir regularly provides choral music to enhance the worship service. The bell choir also provides regular performances throughout the year that complement the choral and organ music. Instrumental interludes provide for a time of reflection or prayer during services.

The type of music featured in our congregation can vary wildly from one service to the next. Our music is chosen by the Ministers and the Music Director to compliment the sermon topic and theme. Everything from traditional songs from the Unitarian Universalist Association's Singing the Living Tradition hymnal to pagan chants, African spirituals and rock songs might be included in a service. There are occasional guest performers such as jazz musicians, African drummers, and quartets that join us.

As part of our reflective time together each week, we sing the hymn Spirit of Life:

Spirit of Life, come unto me.
Sing in my heart all the stirrings of compassion.
Blow in the wind, rise in the sea;
move in the hand, giving life the shape of justice.
Roots hold me close; wings set me free;
Spirit of Life, come to me, come to me.

Words & Music by Carolyn McDade
Harmony by Grace Lewis-McLaren

We welcome anyone to join either of our two music groups. All abilities are welcome. Contact Music Director, Stephen Grimm for more information.

Neighborhood Choir: Sing at 1st or 2nd service, Thursday evening rehearsals

Neighborhood Bell Choir: Perform at various times throughout the year, Monday night rehearsals

Other music groups:
Pasadena Pro Musica Neighborhood Church is home to renowned chamber chorus and orchestra, Pasadena Pro Musica. Founded in 1964, NUUC Music Director Stephen Grimm currently serves as the artistic director and conductor. The chorus is comprised entirely of auditioned, accomplished musicians who volunteer their services from the beginning through the end of each concert season. Five to seven concerts with chorus, orchestra, and soloists are presented annually.