Welcome to the Music Program here at UUFG!
Music is an important part of our Sunday service — it energizes us and unites us in worship. We are committed to providing excellent quality, exciting and diverse musical experiences that spiritually fulfill musician, congregation and community member alike.
Talented vocal and instrumental soloists and ensembles frequently perform at our services, especially on non-choir Sundays. Explore our pages, join us at one of our exciting rehearsals, come listen to one of our Concert Series programs, and
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to become a part of the musical experience.
"And when Love speaks, the voices of all the gods make heaven drowsy with its harmony."
—William Shakespeare
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February 2012 Music Notes |
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Welcome, Mark Irchai!
Many church musicians have their first professional jobs while still teenagers. These young people gain invaluable experience while bringing youthful energy, enthusiasm and creativity to the church. The UUFG music program is pleased to welcome to our music staff Mark Irchai, a very talented 15-year-old musician. If you have been at services in December and/or January you have no doubt had the opportunity to see him in action—playing piano solos and hymns, accompanying the children’s choirs (and occasionally the adults too), and singing in the adult choir. Many of you have met him and have already given him a warm welcome. Now to introduce him a little further...
Mark comes from a line a professional musicians on his father’s side of the family. He has studied piano for nearly 10 years and has become very accomplished, playing both classical and popular styles. He is currently in the 10th grade at Oak Hall School where he takes all Honors and A.P. classes. He has participated in his school’s musical productions since the 6th grade and by 9th grade he became the lead pianist for all their musicals. He also is the head accompanist for his school’s Thespian Troupe, plays piano in the jazz band, plays accordion, and composes and arranges for various musical groups at his school. In the 7th grade he was one of only five students in Florida to receive a special scholarship from the Duke TIP Program. When in the 8th grade he was the middle school winner of the Betsy Schnell Youth Award in music. In the community he has spent several hours a week playing at Haven Hospice. Recognizing the healing power of music, he is
considering going into the music therapy field.
In just a short few weeks Mark has already added greatly to our music program. He accompanies our children’s choirs with great sensitivity, he has offered us both classical and jazz solos and has played difficult 4-hand music with me, he regularly conducts sectional rehearsals for the men of the choir, and he has perfect pitch allowing him to sing almost anything at sight—and can already sing a pretty
awesome low D (D2)! When you next see Mark, please introduce yourself and express your appreciation to him for the gifts he has brought to our congregation.
Welcome, Mark! |
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