Worship and the Arts

Music at Trinity United Church

We at TUC have long enjoyed music as part of our worship experience. From the Adult Choir to the Tone Chime Choir, the Liturgical Dancers to the A CapPals, music plays an important role in the life of TUC. Under the leadership of Musical Director, Sue Coslick, and Pastor, Elsie Armstrong Rhodes, music at TUC covers a wide-range of endeavors, truly the embodiment of Psalm 150.

The oldest established musical forum, the Adult Choir, is an important part of each worship service, blending their voices in introits and anthems ranging from the lively South African chorus, "Siyahamba" to the contemporary strains of "Come Into His Presence," from the classic "Hallelujah Chorus" to the hauntingly beautiful "Here I Am, Lord." Ms. Coslick, challenges her small troupe of non-professionals to reach beyond their own abilities - and the result fills the sanctuary with the glory of God, bringing the congregation into His presence each week, encouraging them to also "sing unto the Lord a new song" (Ps. 33:3). In addition, members of the choir are often asked to solo or participate in duets, trios, and quartets, enabling them to share, on a more personal level, their God given gifts and talents./

The Tone Chime Choir at TUC brings the ancient tradition of the Bell Ringers into a modern worship service. These men and women lend their talents in a unique way, as they ring in the Good News of Jesus Christ, creating magical harmonies with their instruments. Even the children of TUC have been known to work at mastering this unique skill, turning the simple "Jesus Loves Me" into a masterpiece of praise.

The Brass Ensemble lend its triumphant sound to worship services as well. The powerful message in song these musicians bring is evident whether, together, they are announcing the Risen Christ on Easter Sunday, or individually accompanying the Adult choir on pieces such as "Let All Things Now Living."

Other instruments often find their way into services. African drums, flute, recorder, saxophone, clarinet, and assorted rhythm instruments blend their sound to that of the more traditional piano and organ for both anthem and congregational singing.

With a swirl of golden, rust, bronze, and green leaves, the Liturgical Dancers of Trinity United Church process down the aisle. They are the next step in musical worship…literally. With simple movements, this band of women and men interpret a wide range of instrumental and vocal pieces bringing a new, yet ancient, aspect of worship to vivid life.

Many of TUC's members seek other ways to express their love of music and their desire to share Him in song. The A CapPals, an a cappella vocal group, meet regularly honing their craft, while supporting each other in laughter and prayer. This group of men and women has performed at the Watchung Ridge Assisted Living Center and are looking for other ways to share their unique style of song.

Outside resources also provide a variety of musical worship experiences for Trinity United Church and the surrounding community. Jazz Vesper Services with guest artists, Band du Soliel, concerts by the Ecumenical Barbershop Chorus, the renowned Nassoons of Princeton University, and jazz vocalist, Warren Cooper, and guest worship leaders the Madrigals of Franklin High School, and tenor Gordon Kaslusky are just a few examples of the vocal and instrumental offerings at TUC.