Music
Music at First Unitarian
Music at First Unitarian Church is built on the diversity of our community and the belief that music is a deeply spiritual, and deeply human practice. We celebrate the beauty of our unique experiences and our shared ones. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an avid student of any age, or an appreciative listener, you are welcome here.
Contact Director of Music Adam O’Dell at music@firstuchicago.org for more information about any of our programs!
The First U Chancel Choir
The Chancel Choir is a non-auditioned mixed voice choir. This 25-plus member ensemble sings for service twice a month, and for various special services.
We sing a variety of genres, from classical to spirituals, jazz to pop, and everywhere in between! The Chancel Choir serves not only as an opportunity for spiritual growth, but also as an educational opportunity for our participating members.
We learn fundamentals of choral singing, deep breathing, kinesthetics, and choral music history.
We also have four professional section leaders who bolster each section of the choir, so you can focus on learning in a low stress environment. If you’ve always wanted to sing, but haven’t had the opportunity to learn, this is the perfect place to get started!
New members are always welcome! Contact Adam O’Dell at music@firstuchicago.org.
Whether singing or soaking it in, the experience of music changes how we are in the world. We gather not just to make a beautiful sound, but to experience music as a channel for our shared growth as people. Music is community: individuals joining together to make something bigger than any one person could on their own.
The First U Band
The First U Band is a flexible roster of singers and instrumentalists who perform for worship once a month. We perform a variety of music from UU hymnody to R&B, jazz, rock, and pop.
If you sing or play an instrument (or both!) and would like to join, contact Adam O’Dell at music@firstuchicago.org.
Singing Circle
Our monthly Singing Circle is an opportunity for members to gather, emotionally and/or spiritually reset, and sing and learn songs in a low-stress environment. Whether you’re looking for a non-creedal spiritual practice, or just looking for a musical opportunity without recurring time commitments, this is a wonderful opportunity for newcomers and long time members alike!
Music as Spiritual Practice
Making music and experiencing music are aesthetic and spiritual practices. Singing together unites us, comforts, strengthens, renews, and transforms. For us, it’s not a decoration, or a break, or even a performance—it’s an integral part of the Sunday service.