MINISTRIES OF WORSHIP
Everyone has a place in the ministries of worship—from music and art through media—with ensembles and opportunities for every age group, skillset and musical ability. You can sing, play your instrument, serve as an assisting minister, participate in Reader’s Theater, assist with camera operation, video creation and much more!
Join the song
Music plays a central role in worship and spiritual life here at Westwood. For over six decades, our church has shared the stories of our faith and spread the good news of God’s unconditional love for all through song. We believe that music ministry begins with the congregation, with people of faith singing the church’s story. Our musical ensembles are an extension of the congregation’s voice, enhancing our worship on a weekly basis.
And, when you're part of a music group here, you will find opportunities to:
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Deepen your faith.
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Connect with others.
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Use your gifts in worship and praise.
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Serve through engagement with the community.
If you're interested in joining an ensemble at Westwood or would like more information about ways you can serve in the ministries of worship, please contact G. Phillip Shoultz, III, Cantor for Music, Worship and the Arts, or the one of the other directors listed below.
A Cappella Choir
Rehearsal: Wednesdays, 7:30-9:00 PM, Choir Room
Director: Phillip Shoultz, p.shoultz@westwood.church
This mixed-voice adult choir leads sung liturgy and provides anthems. In addition to Sunday and occasional Wednesday worship, A Cappella also has numerous fellowship opportunities. All voices and abilities are welcome.
Cantemus
Rehearsal: Wednesdays from 5:15-6:00 PM, Choir Room
Director(s): Elsa Lee, e.lee@westwood.church • Phillip Shoultz, p.shoultz@westwood.church
This mixed-voice 7th-12th grade choir provides anthems in dynamic ways that engages all voices and abilities.
Children's Choir
Rehearsal: Sunday Mornings, 10:00-10:30 AM, Choir Room
Director: Phillip Shoultz and Michelle Shoultz, p.shoultz@westwood.church
We provide many opportunities for children preschool (ages 4)-6th grade and family members, to create meaningful musical contributions to our congregational life together.
Worship Team
Rehearsal: Wednesdays, 6:30-8:00 PM, Sanctuary
Director: Elsa Lee e.lee@westwood.church
All vocalists and instrumentalists are welcome to join this spiritual, creative, and musical outlet for leading the congregation. From piano and guitar settings to a full arrangements including drums to vocalists, we seek to add new dimensions in church song.
Westwood Ringers
Rehearsal: Tuesdays from 7-8:30 PM in Choir Room
Director: Alanna Taragawa, alanna.k9@gmail.com
Our bell choir will divide into small ensembles and meet in person to provide music in worship each month. All who can read music are welcome, and all techniques are taught during rehearsals.
Music Consort: Solos, Duets, Ensembles
Contact: Phillip Shoultz, p.shoultz@westwood.church
If you sing or play any instrument proficiently and would like to share your musical gifts, we would love to add your name to our list so can provide musical selections on an occasional basis throughout the year.
Westwood Wind Ensemble
Rehearsal: Currently paused
Director: To be announced.
The Westwood Wind Ensemble provides music in worship three times during the program year and is a musical highlight of worship. Anyone that can play an instrument is welcome!
Minneapolis Area Synod Senior Band
Rehearsal: selected Tuesdays 10 AM - 12:15 PM
Director: Nick Vanduzee, nvdz@aol.com
Synod Senior Band: http://ssb-mn.org/
This community band for seniors and retirees is a non-auditioned, "just for fun" band which rehearses about 12 times a year and schedules all performances between April and November. The group functions primarily for the enjoyment of playing music together.
MEDIA
Westwood tapes and broadcasts our services and events to make them more accessible for all. We regularly record worship, adult education, congregational meetings, weddings, funerals and special events. We welcome your skill—or even your interest—in audio and video production, using the audio or video board, online streaming, or social media.
For more detail, contact Phillip Shoultz, p.shoultz@westwood.church
