OUR CONGREGATION'S MUSIC PROGRAM
Meet our Interim Music Director!
Nate (who prefers the pronouns they/them) completed their Bachelor of Music Education (in choral conducting) at Temple University. They were the Interim Music Director at First Unitarian Church in Philadelphia for a year where they led the choir, created a robust volunteer program that led to a 75% increase in music program participation, and diversified musical offerings. They also assisted with the design and implementation of a new sound system and with live streaming services. Nate was also a teacher and music program director at a Philadelphia charter high school for four years.
Jazz Sunday: April 19, 2026
As a celebration of JAZZ APPRECIATTON MONTH, we honored the life and music of CAL MASSEY, a pioneer of Philadelphia Jazz!
Cal Massey (1928-1972): The Artist and Activist
Cal Massey was a visionary Philadelphia composer and trumpeter whose music served as a powerful soundtrack to the Black Liberation Movement, Though often a "shadow figure" who stayed out of the commercial spotlight, Massey was a titan among his peers. He was a close friend and collaborator of John Coltrane, and his compositions were recorded by jazz legends like Freddie Hubbard, Lee Morgan, and
Archie Shepp.
Massey's work was deeply intertwined with his commitment to social justice. His masterpiece, “The Black Liberation Movement Suite”, was commissioned by the Black Panther Party and featured movements dedicated to figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Huey P. Newton. Because of his radical political views and refusal to separate his art from his activism, Massey was largely overlooked by major record labels during his lifetime.
We honor him not just as a brilliant musical architect, but as a man who used his gift to demand dignity, equality, and liberation for all people. He remains a cornerstone of Philadelphia's rich cultural history, proving that jazz is not just music - it is a movement.
Actual Proof Band Members
| Bobby Zankel Daud Bakara Sumi Tonooka Douglass Mapp Webb Thomas Greg Moore |
Alto Sax Trumpet Piano Bass Drums Congas & Percussion |
Welcome our New Band: the Hale Raisers
Holiday Music Sunday: Nuestra Navidad was a Great Success!
The sanctuary was full to overflowing to hear the bellringers play and the singers perform Nuestra Navidad. Below is an impromptu photo taken after the performance with guest musicians: Suzzette Ortiz, pianist/accordion; Rene Ginett, vocalist; Patricio Acevedo, guitar; Arturo Stable, percussion. Missing from the picture are Annabel G and Bridget McMore about our Music Program
- CHOIR: I want to praise our Choir members highly for great work & devotion — for creativity & thoughtfulness — for giving their minds & hearts to creating beauty & joy & good vibrations in our congregation — for taking personal risks & rising to challenges — for lifting the hearts & minds & Spirit of us all. And — for being in good friendship with one another. How great is this?!
Please let our Singers know how much you appreciate their contributions to your spiritual life!
- CONNECTING: And — if you are intrigued by the possibility of participating in singing, playing instruments, playing handbells, please contact the Music Director. Lifting a joyful voice is a great way to connect with others.
- SUMMER SUNDAYS: During this summer, our lead musicians will be sharing the Sundays when I'm away (June-August). Musicians are invited to participate to create special music that connects thematically with each service. If you are interested in talking more about that, please contact the Music Director.
- COMPLIMENT: Thanks to you-in-the-pews for singing hymns so BEAUTIFULLY - full-voiced & lustily (hmm, perhaps not quite the right word!). When we lift the roof off the sanctuary, smiles form on our faces!
- JAMIE: Last by not least, I thank Jamie P. for his good musicianship, for his capacity to listen & create something that supports the singing. On June 2, you heard him anchoring the Choir on djembe on the song "Dropping Keys," a song with lyrics by Hafiz, the 14th century Persian mystic. He is versatile!
Earlier Spring Choir Concert: The Great American Songbook
Swinging on a Star: We celebrated the stunning creativity of mid-20th century American songwriters. Our Singers stepped out a bit and tried their hands at the fabulous tunes of the Great American Songbook.
