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Music

Since the early 1800s, music has played an important part in the history of Second Church. At first, the music was purely vocal, with no instrumentation. An attempt to introduce instrumental music to the church in the mid-19th century led to the resignation of one of its clergy! No music, and that was that! (Fortunately, not for long!)

Today, the music program at Second Church is outstanding, thanks in no small part to the direction and behind-the-scenes efforts of gentlemen such as Bill MacPherson, Mark Anderson, Scott McSween, and especially Mr. J. Kimball Darling.

In 1850, Second Church purchased its first organ. A new organ was acquired in 1894 from the Hook & Hastings Organ Company of Boston. This was moved into the new Red Church in 1905, and served well until being replaced (save for twelve pipes, which were revoiced) in 1968.

The current organ in the sanctuary is an outstanding instrument, and was supplied by the Schlicker Organ Company of Buffalo, New York. It consists of 2,322 pipes set into four poplar wind chests, located behind an acoustically transparent screen. On December 8, 1968, the organ was dedicated to the memory of Rev. Dr. Russell B. Richardson.

In addition to the organ music, we have also been graced by the presence of an outstanding choir group, as well as flute, trumpet, bassoon, violin, kettle drums, Orff instruments, and many others. The Second Church music program includes a brand new Handbell Choir program, intergenerational Sacred Dance ensembles (skillfully directed by Ruth Alice Ottmar and Marlene Whitney), an annual Christmas concert, and many memorable Christmas and Easter pageants.

If you or your family are interested in participating in any aspect of the Second Church Music Program, please contact our Director, William A. MacPherson.