First Presbyterian’s music ministry engages disciples of diverse ages and gifts in service through music. Our choirs, handbell ensembles, soloists, and small groups support the church’s mission by declaring the Word in worship and by empowering members to make meaningful offerings through music.
“…be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ”
Ephesians 5:19-20
Adult choirs
As servants of Christ and our brothers and sisters in the world, we maintain ongoing partnerships with local mission agencies and international missionaries. We regularly send church members on mission trips. At First Presbyterian Church, there are opportunities available for all ages and abilities to serve.
Rehearsals 7:00 to 8:00 PM Wednesdays, fall through spring
Director, Richard Williamson
The Chancel Choir serves in the 11:00 AM service and in special seasonal services. This warm, friendly group welcomes any adult who loves to sing. To get involved, contact Richard Williamson at richardw@fpcandersonsc.com.
Meets 20 minutes before the service, fall through spring
Director, Cindy Forbes
The Early Bird Choir provides music for the early worship service two Sundays a month, usually a familiar hymn. Members enjoy the fellowship and support of each other, and they share their love of music with the congregation. To get involved, contact Cindy Forbes at cindyorganist@gmail.com.
Meets 20 minutes before the service during the summer months
Director, Richard Williamson
The Summer Choir leads congregational singing and makes special—but accessible—musical offerings in worship during the summer months. Anyone who likes to sing can participate. Just come to the choir loft 20 minutes before the service
Rehearsals Tuesdays 12:15 PM, fall through spring
Director, Cindy Forbes
The Chancel Chimers is an adult handbell choir. The Chimers ring in worship several times a year. Small groups and individuals in the group sometimes add special touches to the service music. To get involved, contact Cindy Forbes at cindyorganist@gmail.com
children's choirs
As servants of Christ and our brothers and sisters in the world, we maintain ongoing partnerships with local mission agencies and international missionaries. We regularly send church members on mission trips. At First Presbyterian Church, there are opportunities available for all ages and abilities to serve.
Rehearsals 5:15 to 5:45 PM Wednesdays, fall through spring
Director, Cindy Forbes
The Children’s Choir is open to any first through fifth grader. The children sing to learn about God and serve God as they learn to sing. The Children’s Choir leads in worship four or five times a year and presents a special seasonal program. To get your children involved, contact Cindy Forbes at cindyorganist@gmail.com.
Rehearsals 5:15 to 5:45 PM Wednesdays, fall through spring
Director, Cindy Forbes and Music Scholars
The Cherub Choir is open to any child age 3–5 years. The children enjoy serving and singing together. The Cherub Choir leads in worship four or five times a year. To get your children involved, contact Cindy Forbes at cindyorganist@gmail.com.
Other Opportunities
The music ministry encourages individuals and small groups to express their faith through a variety of music. If you have something to share in worship, let us know. To get involved, contact Richard Williamson at richardw@fpcandersonsc.com or Cindy Forbes at cindyorganist@gmail.com.
Richard Williamson
Director of Music
richardw@fpcandersonsc.com
Richard Williamson, Director of Music, is a conductor, composer, and music educator. In addition to his work in schools and universities, he has served churches his entire adult life. At First Presbyterian Church, Richard coordinates the musical offerings of staff and volunteers, helps to plan worship, organizes special services, and directs the Chancel Choir. He received his training at Furman University, the Eastman School of Music, and the University of Illinois. He has served as Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at Anderson University since 1996.
In addition to music, Richard enjoys cooking, gardening, and travel. He and his wife, Tanya D. Williamson, have three grown children. In his words, “It is a blessing to serve the First Presbyterian community. I am privileged to help its members proclaim God’s message through music.”
As members of First Presbyterian Church of Anderson, we are called to create a community of faith that seeks the welfare of its members and visitors. Therefore, we are committed to the protection of all children, youth, and other persons participating in the activities and programs of First Presbyterian Church. The Safe Church Policy has evolved from a shared concern that the church must be a safe and secure place for our children, youth and adults.
Please read the Safe Church Policy and Procedures Manual if you are approved to serve in an area of ministry, then fill out the Statement of Compliance and Permission for Background Check Forms. These may be submitted digitally, or you may also print, complete and deliver to the Church office.