The St. George’s Choir
“They who sing pray twice.”
~St. Augustine
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
~Colossians 3:16
Music plays a central role in the liturgy and life at Saint George’s. Excellent music not only inspires, but can also transcend one’s soul in building a personal relationship with our Creator. There are many opportunities to become involved with the Music Ministry at Saint George’s, from singing in the Choir; playing handbells; playing an instrument in the St. George’s Band; or singing Bluegrass music in the Bluegrass Gospel Revival.
The Saint George’s Choir is comprised of both professional and volunteer singers and sings at the 10am Sung Eucharist every Sunday, September through June. The Choir also sings throughout Holy Week, at several Feast Days, and at other events throughout the year including our annual Christmas Festival of Lessons and Carols. The summer, when the choir is off, offers many opportunities for parishioners to present their musical offerings to God for the offertory anthem. Past offerings have included everything from an acoustic guitar version of Bob Dylan’s I Believe in You, to a classical bassoon instrumental, and solos.
The Choir rehearses Thursday evenings from 7:30-9pm. One need not possess a beautiful voice or music-reading abilities to join the choir. The Choir hosts a “Bring a Friend Night” at the beginning of the choir season. This is an opportunity for those who may be interested in joining the Choir to attend a Thursday evening rehearsal followed by food and fellowship with the current singers. Adults and high school students interested in singing with the Choir should contact Organist/Choirmaster Nicholas Mynyk at music@stgeorgeschurch.org.
The Bell Choir – Jubilation Ringers
The Handbell Choir rehearses every Thursday evening from 6-7pm and plays during the 10am Eucharist approximately every six weeks. Some very basic music reading ability is necessary, though previous bell playing experience is not required. Adults and high school students interested in playing with the Choir should contact volunteer Bell Choir Director, Cynthia Pound through the church office.
The St. Francis Choir
The Saint Francis Choir is open to all children ages five and above. This is a non-auditioned ensemble and children who love to sing are encouraged to participate. Children will learn fundamental concepts of music and singing. The Saint Francis Choir rehearses on Sunday mornings following the 10:00am Mass during coffee hour and performs approximately four times a year.
The Bluegrass Gospel Revival
Donning blue jeans and white dress shirts, the Bluegrass Gospel Revival folk sing, play guitar, mandolin, and harmonica all in the bluegrass Gospel style. They can be heard certain Sundays at the 10am service.
The St. George’s Band
The St. George’s Band includes those who play any woodwind or brass instrument. They play a medley of Christmas Carols at the Family Service on Christmas Eve. Instrumentalists also play solo or duet music throughout the church year.
Organist/Choirmaster – Nicholas Mynyk
Nicholas Mynyk received Bachelors and Masters degrees from Westminster Choir College in piano and organ performance. He has over 25 years of experience in sacred music and choral conducting, the vast majority of which has been in Episcopal churches. Most recently, Nick has been the Director of Music at Christ Church in Woodbury, NJ.
Nick has taught keyboard and other instruments to all ages, ranging from first grade through graduate students. He also has extensive experience as a professional recitalist and accompanist. Nick is a member of the Association of Anglican Musicians and the American Guild of Organists. Currently, Nick teaches and conducts at St. Andrew Catholic School in Newtown, PA, where he provides instrumental music lessons, accompanies their two choruses, and coaches and accompanies their annual musical. Nick resides in Newtown, PA.
Nick’s experience adds to St. George’s recognized and venerable tradition of fine music and worship. His entire training and ministry has been in the Royal School of Church Music and the Episcopal Church, experience he shares through his love and passion for Anglican Church Music with St. George’s.