The sanctuary of Wesley Methodist Church was filled with an air of anticipation on Wednesday evening, 11 December 2024, as music lovers and their guests gathered for a special performance by the Methodist Festival Choir and Orchestra. The programme, titled “Let Heaven and Nature Sing”, promised an evening of inspiring music, and it certainly delivered.
Highlights of the evening performance included traditional pieces written by Charles Wesley: Come Thou Long Expected Jesus and Hark the Herald Angels Sing. The arrangements by Dr Michael Burkhardt beautifully captured the anticipation and joy of the Advent season.
The 60-member strong adult choir presented both a cappella and accompanied pieces, including the most memorable Gloria, an impressive work filled with wonderful rhythms accompanied by the djembe, an African drum, woodblocks and hand claps. The singing was joyful and vibrant and had the audience clapping and swaying to it.
The presence of 50 children choristers also added much excitement to the service as their pure voices soared enthusiastically, filling the sanctuary with joy and creating a truly uplifting and celebratory atmosphere. The children trained with American guest conductor Dr Burkhardt, or Dr B as he is more popularly known, for two half-days in a choral camp at the Sophia Blackmore Hall to learn vocal techniques and prepare for this service. Frequently in demand as a choral clinician, organ recitalist and hymn festival leader, Dr B is an internationally acclaimed director known for his many inspiring hymn festivals, as well as his creative work with children.
Together with the children, Dr B also taught the congregation a song, Sing Alleluia, Allelu – a simple, joyous melody accompanied by metal and wooden xylophones that was easy to learn. The congregation gamely participated and clearly enjoyed it. The children also presented a delightful piece featuring roosters, chickadees and doves singing and dancing to welcome the Prince of Peace! This very interactive service between choristers and congregation helped to bring community and unity among the congregants and created an environment where people felt comfortable expressing their faith through song.
Executive Director of The Methodist School of Music (MSM), Clarissa Tan, shared in her Call to Partnership message that MSM is deeply committed to nurturing musical talents and church musicians, equipping worship leaders, inspiring the next generation to serve in worship and blessing the community with God’s gift of music: “We share Christ through music. Music is a gift. It is life-giving, life-transforming and a profound way to glorify God.”
The evening ended on a high with Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, with more than 1,000 people rising to their feet to praise the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. And indeed, He shall reign forever and ever!
Hear what some of our guests say!
“What a stellar night of worship for all of us. Our hearts were touched by the music and our souls were refreshed by the presence of God in the entire worship service.” – Karen Ho
“My family and I enjoyed ourselves so much. The curation of the entire event engaged everyone, and we all sang along with the beautiful Christmas carols. Dr B was so experienced in integrating the choir, musicians, and the audience. We are all connected through music.” – Amanda Tan
“This is my first MSM concert. What a marvellous evening of music and carols, praising and honouring God this Christmas. I really felt the spirit of Christmas in the “togetherness” of the service. My son and I were very blessed.” – Lee Boon Kiang
We would love to have you join us!
If you are interested in joining the Methodist Festival Choir or Orchestra, please reach out via email at worship@msmusic.edu.sg or WhatsApp at +65 8031 4814.
Your support is essential to our mission.
If you would like to partner with the Methodist School of Music (MSM) in their mission to transform lives through music, your contribution will have a direct impact, allowing MSM to grow a vibrant music ministry. You may give in the following ways:
If you would like to partner with the Methodist School of Music (MSM) in their mission to transform lives through music, your contribution will have a direct impact, allowing MSM to grow a vibrant music ministry. You may give in the following ways:
PayNow: Use your bank app to scan this code or use our UEN number S88CC0564JMSM Payee name: The Methodist Church in Singapore – General Conference Under Ref No, please type MFC24
Bank Transfer Bank: OCBC A/C Name: The Methodist Church in Singapore – MSM A/C No: 647813468001 Please indicate your name and MFC24 in the reference field.
Cheque Payable to “The Methodist Church in Singapore – MSM” Please indicate your name and MFC24 in the reference field. If you would like an official receipt, please provide your contact details.
Thank you for your support!
Photos by Ho Tzin Yih and Henry Lim
Read also: Echoes of Grace: Reflections on Hymn and Praise Sunday Worship Service
