MUSIC

The Department of Music at College Avenue Church invites you to learn more about the exciting opportunities provided to you through God’s glorious gift of Music.  Through music we worship the one, true God who graces us with His guidance and, through Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, life eternal.  As United Methodists, we believe in the values and ideals of John Wesley and the Protestant Reformation teaching that congregational participation in worship is of great importance.

The Department of Music offers powerful and challenging ways to involve yourself in the passionate worship services at College Avenue Church.  With ensembles for all ages, interests, and gifts, we are sure that you will find a spirit of hospitality and belonging in the music ensembles of College Avenue Church.

Dr. Douglas Amman
Director of Music

Ensemble

Under the direction of Dr. Douglas Amman, the Chancel Choir leads the music of the eleven o’clock Sunday morning worship service each Sunday late-August through early-July. The ensemble rehearses on Thursdays prior to those Sundays from 7:30p.m. until 9:00p.m. The group has an exhilarating dynamic as it is made up of retired persons, university personnel, community members, and a large number of university students. Members of the group consistently comment on the great experience that comes with being in a group of such diversity. The choir sings a very wide range of music from classical works (sometimes with orchestra), spirituals, gospel pieces, and sacred jazz arrangements. 

The College Ensemble leads the music of the nine o’clock traditional worship service on the first and third Sunday mornings of the months August through April. Comprised of student musicians from nearby Ball State University, the group performs with an intensity and drive that is unique to college students. The College Ensemble rehearses Thursdays from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Typically, the ensemble sings pieces that are a part of the repertoire of the Chancel Choir.

Mr. John Emert directs the lively group that leads the ten o’clock CAFE services each Sunday morning. The group serves as both music leader and inspirational guide in the contemporary theme-based CAFE worship service. Dueling pianos, guitars, brass, percussion, and talented vocalists share driving music of varying styles. Each Sunday the service begins with a medley of songs ranging from praise choruses to contemplative refrains. The music of the service draws growing numbers of persons seeking a contemporary, up-to-date approach to worship.

Under the direction of Dr. Lori Rhoden, the Memorial Handbell Choir participates in worship on a monthly basis. The ensemble rehearses Thursday evenings from 6:15 until 7:15. With dedicated ringers who have been in the group since its inception ringing next to youth and newcomers to the art, the ensemble has a bond and unity that is especially evident through their music. The rehearsal atmosphere is friendly and inviting and full of laughs, support, and fervor.

Many talented members of the church who might be unable to participate in the ensembles of the church due to schedule conflicts prepare solos, duets, and small ensemble pieces for worship, as they are able.