Grace Church

Utica, New York

 

 

 

 

 

 

For over a century the parish has carefully fostered the resources that will promote the fullest expression of Anglican worship. As a reflection of the English choral tradition, the Grace Church Choir is made up of singers of all ages, with adults, teens and younger choristers forming a single choir. The weekly Sung Eucharist uses music of all periods, from plainchant to medieval and Renaissance compositions, works of the English choral tradition, as well as those of contemporary composers. Choral Evensong, a preeminent feature of Anglican worship, is offered several times during the year, and each Advent season begins with a Service of Lessons and Carols.

The choir sings at the Sunday Eucharist from September through mid-June. The music program also includes a Handbell Choir made up of ringers of all ages. The choirs are affiliated with the Royal School of Church Music.

Membership in either of the choirs is open to anyone by means of a simple interview and audition. Parish membership is not a prerequisite to participation with the choir. Interested ringers or singers are always welcome to contact the Organist and Choirmaster.

Mr. Smith may be reached by phone at 315-733-7575, Ext. 227; or by email, bsmith@gracechurchutica.org.

 

The Instruments

Grace Church has had several notable organs in its long history. The current instrument was installed in 1983 by the Holtkamp Organ Company of Cleveland. It consists of three manuals and pedals that control 63 ranks of pipes. The church also has thirteen tower bells which are controlled by an automatic bell ringer, a four-octave set of Malmark handbells, as well as three octaves of Schulmerich hand chimes. Grand pianos include a Yamaha, as well as a Kohler and Campbell.

 

This Week’s Music

Music for Sunday, May 11

Prelude  “Liturgical Improvisation No. 3”  G. Oldroyd (1887-1956)

Pour light upon us from above,

And fire our hearts with thy strong love.

Processional Hymn 225  “Hail Thee, Festival Day”  Salve feste dies

Psalm 104:25-35, 37b  Anglican Chant, sung by the choir  W. Crotch (1775-1847)

The Offertory Anthem (10:30)   “Creator Spirit, Heavenly Dove”  R. Powell (b. 1932)

Offertory Hymn 516  “Come Down, O Love Divine”  Down Ampney

Timothy E. Davis, organ

Congregational Mass Setting  W. Mathias (1934-1992)

Communion Voluntary (8:00)  “Come, Holy Ghost, our Souls Inspire”  P. P. Stearns (b. 1931)

Communion Anthem (10:30)  “Spirit of the Lord, Come Down”  J. Harper

Communion Hymn 509  “Spirit Divine, Attend our Prayers”  Nun danket all

Hymn 506  “Praise the Spirit in Creation”  Finnian

Voluntary  “Come, Holy Ghost, God and Lord”   C. Ore (b. 1936)

M. Cody Engstrom, organist

Music

The Choirs

Music has been central to the worship life of this parish from the early days of its history.