Join the Music Ministry!

Dear Friends, 


My name is Julie Stiles, and I am the Church Musician/Music Coordinator for UCC. I have the privilege of choosing the music to accompany each service, directing the UCC Choir, and I am a happy member of the UCC Bell Choir.


I grew up in the Church of Christ, which many of you know is an acapella-only denomination. I credit the Church of Christ with my love for the traditional hymns, as well as my good ear for music! After I moved to Austin, I did not attend any church for many years but, around 13 years ago, my husband Bob, son Will, and I found United Christian Church. 


Since day one, I have been excited about the music program here at UCC - I immediately joined the choir under Lauren Zachry-Reynolds, and soon was also playing piano for occasional services and special music. For a couple of years, I directed one of our children’s choirs on Wednesday nights (I am hoping we can start this program up again before too long!). It was only natural, and quite the honor, that I became the dedicated 9AM accompanist when that position was needed. Nowadays, as Church Musician, I get to select and present music to all of you, proceeding with a servant heart as my talents lead. I love serving UCC this way!


As Lent rolls towards Easter, both the Bell Choir and Vocal Choir are rehearsing their music for Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday...It is not too late to join! Just email me or show up at 7PM Wednesdays (Vocal Choir) or 8PM Wednesdays (Bell Choir) and we’ll have a space just for you.


Alternatively, if you have musical skills or talents that you wish to share with the congregation, please let me know. We can work together to find a hymn or piece that would fit into a Sunday service, or you can bring whatever you’ve got for consideration. There are also opportunities to play or sing in a small group of musicians; please let me know if you’d be interested in participating. We love our musical family!


If we haven’t already met, I look forward to meeting each of you. If you have any questions, concerns, constructive criticism, or just want to say hi, please reach out to me in person at church, via email, or on Facebook. I value all opinions and hymn requests from each of you.


Peace be with you,
Julie Stiles
julie@uccaustin.org

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