Sing to the Lord a new song, for the Lord has done marvelous things.— Psalm 98:1
Music in Worship
Music is a vital part of our worship here at The Presbyterian Church of Basking Ridge. We lift our voices in praise, prayer and thanksgiving through hymns, responses, solos and anthems each Sunday. Our vocal choirs and bell choirs enrich worship on Sunday mornings and at special services. Soloists and instrumentalists touch our hearts as they lift up their music to God.
The Great Choir
The Congregation is the Great Choir of the church. We sing together the great hymns of the church, including music from a variety of styles and genres. We sing in praise, confession, meditation, prayer, and proclamation of our faith.
Vocal Music
- Sanctuary Choir
- Oratorio Choir
- Youth Music
- Children's Music
The Sanctuary Choir rehearses Thursday evenings at 7:30 pm September the 10:15 am service weekly as well as other services and events during the year.
If you are interested in joining this choir, please contact the director of music ministries at 908-953-9809.
Oratorio Choir is composed of members of the Sanctuary and Youth Choirs, plus other interested singers from the congregation and community. During Oratorio Season, they rehearse on Thursday evenings from 8:45 – 10 p.m. This choir presents two services each year, one in December and one in the spring.
If you are interested in joining a choir, please contact the director of music ministries at 908-953-9809.
Join us Wednesdays from 5-6 pm to explore using your musical and other talents in service to God. All students in grades 6-12 are invited to join. You’ll have an opportunity to sing, ring bells, play other instruments, compose music, and participate in other fun musical games and activities together. Bring your own devices & instruments as well!
Our Children’s Midweek Ministry program (click for details) contains a music element and provides an opportunity for children to find their singing voices and use them to praise God in worship! The children have fun singing, learning basic music reading, playing instruments, learning Bible stories reflected in the texts of the music, learning about the Christian year, and preparing for worship leadership.
If interested in joining the Children’s Music programs, contact Beth Donley, Director of Children’s Music Ministries, 908-500-1789.
Handbell Music
The Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church has had active handbell choirs ringing out with joy since the 1950’s. The church owns six and one of Whitechapel Handbells which were crafted in London, England as well as three octaves of Malmark hand chimes.
We presently have two Handbell Choirs that rehearse weekly and play at various services during the year.
- Alpha Bell Choir
- Knox Bell Choir
The Alpha Bell Choir is made up of Youth and Adult ringers. Ability to read music is important, but prior handbell experience is not required.
Rehearsals – Tuesdays, 6:15 – 7:15 pm
If you are interested in joining the hand bell choirs, contact the director of music ministries at 908-953-9809.
The Knox Bell Choir is made up of experienced ringers. Individuals ringing in this choir have a musical background and/or have handbell ringing experience.
Rehearsals – Tuesdays, 7:30 – 8:45 pm
If you are interested in joining the hand bell choirs, contact the director of music ministries at 908-953-9809.
Special Music Services
Oratorio Services – Advent and Spring
Advent & Easter are two of the most festive and important seasons of the Christian year. Each year we present two special services marking and celebrating these seasons. These services feature choral works sung by our Oratorio choir, accompanied by an orchestra. Everyone is invited to these services of beautiful music. We hope you will be uplifted and encouraged by the music inspired through the ages by God and the joy, peace, and excitement of these special times of year.
Lenten Music and Meditation Services
Wednesdays during Lent at 12 noon in the Sanctuary
These short services of music, readings and prayer offer a quiet time out of our busy schedules during the season of Lent. Guest musicians, such as organists, violinists and soloists, enrich these services with their special music. Following each service, lunch is offered in Westminster Hall.
Children’s Special Music Programs
The children’s choirs offer two special music programs during the year – one in December during the Advent Festival and one in May during a 10:15 a.m. worship service as the culmination of the choir year. The musicals, directed by Beth Donley, provide an opportunity for children to find their singing voices and use them to praise God.
Click here for information on our Pipe Organ