Bethany Covenant Church 

One Covenant Way, Bedford, NH 03110 USA     Tel: 603-472-5545    Fax: 603-472-8821

Evangelical Covenant Church logo

Home
About Bethany
Map/Directions
Contact Us
Your First Visit?

Ministries

Staff

Leadership Team

Worship and Music Search Committee

Weekly Notices
The Broadcaster

Links

Daily Readings

The Lambs' Workshop

Our Denomination

 

 

Instrumental Music

Combined choir and orchestras at Celebration Sunday 2007.

Bethany Sanctuary Orchestra

Large instrumental ensemble
Based on ability
Rehearsal times - TBA
Location - TBA

The Sanctuary Orchestra is actually a combination of any or all of the instrumentalists in Bethany's musical community. We play on an occasional basis (6-8 times a year) in worship and for special events, almost always at Bethany. 

The orchestration of what we are playing determines the instrumentation for any event. We will get together for a rehearsal or two as a playing time gets closer. This ensemble will play traditional orchestral literature, contemporary pop/rock arrangements, and just about anything in between(or outside any box). We may play as a "featured group" or backing up other groups, or supporting congregational singing. 

An intermediate level of skill and music reading ability is required for this group because of the relatively small amount of rehearsal time allotted each time we play. There simply isn't time to be "teaching notes" or individual technique. However, there are a lot of players who join us who "haven't played in years", and with a little individual effort find their "chops" coming back. So dust off your instrument and join us!

Bethany Woodwinds & Bethany Brass

Woodwinds and Brass ensembles
Based on ability
Rehearsal times - TBA
Location - TBA

Bethany Woodwinds and Bethany Brass praise God through playing traditional wind instruments. All levels of skill are invited. Typically, these ensembles play on an occasional "as needed" basis, without regularly scheduled rehearsal and performance times. They play in regular worship services as well as for many special programs that our church presents. They are also occasionally called on to "back-up" other groups in the church. Sometimes, groups may form which meet on a regular basis in "chamber music" groups. 

The rehearsal schedule is decided entirely by the members of that group, as well as the literature they will learn and perform. Some playing skill is needed. We don't teach (at least haven't) reading music or how to play "from scratch". 

However, even if you haven't played in years and are really rusty you're still welcome and encouraged to join. (You'll be surprised at just how fast it all comes back to you!) If you would like to be included on the "call list", please don't hesitate to let us know.

Bethany Youth Orchestra

Instrumental ensemble - 4th grade and up
Rehearsal time - TBA
Location - TBA 

Bethany Youth Orchestra is open to all levels of players on any instrument. A very basic understanding of your instrument is required (how to hold your instrument, get a sound, and play and read at least some notes and rhythms) The ensemble will not do anything that total beginners can't do, but all skill levels will be challenged. We will play once every couple of months (3-4 times a year). We can never have too many players. Come and give us a try. It's a lot of fun!!

Bethany Jazz Ensemble

Instrumental jazz music group
All ages
Rehearsal time -  Tuesdays 7:30-8:30pm
Location - Sanctuary

Bethany Jazz Ensemble is dedicated to the art of playing jazz, and utilizing jazz in worship. We do arrangements of hymns and other sacred music, as well as sacred jazz tunes. We will also "back up" various groups and soloists in worship and in special events. We have also performed at fairs, prisons, fundraising events, and in other secular situations. We maintain a repertoire of great "secular" jazz for just such occasions. 

While no specific jazz skills are required (improvising, arranging etc.), a fairly strong proficiency on your instrument is a must, due to the nature of the music we play. No one is forced (well, really forced) to improvise either. We do work in our rehearsals on improv, and all are encouraged to try, if only for the musical growth that results. 

We're open to all ages and ALL instruments (even instruments that aren't traditionally considered "jazz instruments"). We do have some limited slots - (i.e. the rhythm section). However, we do have some "duplicated" slots, and the players just "trade tunes", (and, hey, if we get enough players, we'll start another group!). So all you trumpet or bass or bassoon players out there - break out your ax and come hang with some hip cats!

 

 

The Cross.

Growing 
the
kingdom
of God,
one
disciple
at a time.

   

 

Copyright© 2007, 2008  Bethany Covenant Church. All rights reserved.