Music

Music Program and Performances

Music is a central component of First Presbyterian Church. Sunday worship services feature a selection of classical and contemporary music performed by Minister of Music Kevin Bailey and our member choir.

Our stunning Visser-Rowland (Opus 87) organ provides both a visual and auditory backdrop in the mid-century modern sanctuary for worship, concerts, weddings, and memorial services throughout the year.

Outside, the landmark Walter Maguire Memorial Tower is home to the 56-bell Nestle Muller Memorial Carillon. The instrument can be heard across Stamford on Sundays and during special events.

Special Music Services and Events

Concerts on the Green

First Presbyterian Church’s free summer evening concert program, “Concerts on the Green,” features upbeat, family-friendly music from local bands. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs, and a picnic dinner to enjoy while you soak in the ambiance on the church’s front lawn.

Good Friday

On the Friday before Easter, a concert of sacred music is held in the sanctuary at 7:30 p.m. in recognition of Good Friday.

Scottish Sunday

Held on the last Sunday of October, Scottish Sunday celebrates the Presbyterian denominational roots in John Knox’s Scotland. Bagpipes, drums, Kirkin’ O’ The Tartans, kilts, and a Beadle, make for a truly exceptional emotional experience. Following the service, all are invited to Fellowship Hall for a Ceilidh where shortbread treats abound.

The New York Symphonic Brass

As the church’s Artists in Residence, the New York Symphonic Brass performs in worship services throughout the year culminating with the annual Brass & Organ Christmas Concert in December.

Members of the group can also be found occupying chairs in the orchestras of many Broadway shows and perform regularly with the finest ensembles in New York City, including the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, American Symphony Orchestra, New York City Opera, American Ballet Theater Orchestra and Orpheus Chamber Orchestra.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Two Christmas Eve services are held in the sanctuary. Both feature performances and worship concluding in candlelight.

The Story of Christmas | 4:00-5:00 p.m.
The first service Christmas Eve service at 4:00 p.m. is specially designed for children and for the child in each of us. The service includes a retelling of the story of Christmas narrated and performed by church members in costume as Mary, Joseph, Jesus, Caesar, Herod, the three Kings, townsfolk, shepherds, angels, and animals.

Christmas Concert and Worship Service | 8:30-10:00 p.m.
The second Christmas Eve service features a 30-minute concert prelude of seasonal music from our member choir. Worship beginning at 9:00 p.m. includes a proclamation, the celebration of the Sacrament of Holy Communion, and a ceremony of candles, symbolizing the gift of Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, and our opportunity to bear that light into the world.

First Presbyterian Church