About our Music Programming

Music is both a vital part of church worship and community life at First Unitarian Church of Oakland. Our volunteer musicians and our paid music staff consider their participation a “ministry” in the true sense of the word. Music can touch the soul of the musician as well as the congregant in the pews. The reciprocal relationship that develops as a result of this ministry unites us all. Musicians at First Unitarian strive to represent the cultural diversity our congregation prizes and cultivates.

Our Music Groups

Crescendo Choir:  Volunteer voices, singing at various services during month throughout the church year, including the annual Holiday Concert.  Genres performed include classical, gospel, spirituals, jazz, and folk and more.

Joyful Noise Band (JNB):  Volunteer instrumentalists and singers, performing at services throughout the church year, including the annual Holiday Concert.  JNB performs praise music in the genres of christian, folk-rock, disco, spirituals and more.

Pop-Up Choir is for everyone!  All ages and all voices are welcome – NO singing experience required.  Typically on the last Sunday of the month, we meet ahead of the service to learn two songs, then we sing those songs in the service, and you’re done!  It’s a fun, low-commitment opportunity to sing in worship with others.

Other Volunteer Musicians:  Various combinations of musicians, from soloists, duos, trios, and larger ensembles, offering music in the above genres and more.  These volunteer musicians minister to the congregation in worship services throughout the calendar year as well as in the annual Holiday Concert.

Interested in music at First Unitarian? Just email music@uuoakland.org