The youth music program at the American Church in Paris offers activities for children and youth of all ages. Under the direction of Bonnie Woolley, children learn to play handbells and percussion instruments and to develop a solid choral technique through work on contemporary anthems for young voices. They sing or play approximately once a month during worship service. This program has been continually growing for the past several years, reflecting the changing needs and focus of the American Church in Paris.
Children's Music Program (ages 7-12)
The Children's Choir and Handbells - The Children's Handbell Choir meets from 2 to 3 pm, and the Children's Choir (ages 7 to 12) meets from 3 to 4 pm to prepare music for Sunday services (we sing in church about once a month.) Preparation of pieces for church services and for outings to hospitals or nursing homes gives the children the opportunity to learn proper choral technique and ensemble work. The atmosphere is relaxed, but we work hard, too!
"Shine" Youth Music Program (Teens)
The Youth Choir and Handbells - also known as Shine - meet every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (handbells from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., and singing from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.) As in the children's choir, choral singing technique is a basic focus of the Youth Choir, our vocal work being based on pieces that we sing in church. The Youth Handbells prepare bell pieces for church services using our choirchimes or Schulmerich or Malmark handbells. Rather than offering just a rehearsal environment, we try to provide young musicians with musical instruction that will help them to grow as musicians, even in their individual musical pursuits.
"Cherub" Choir (ages 4-6)
Cherub Choir: music for 4 to 6-year-olds.
We meet on Wednesdays from 3 to 4 p.m. (NOTE: we're currently looking for someone to lead the cherub choir - if you're interested, please contact us!) Emphasis is on rhythm and music games and activities. This program is intended to help younger children learn the basic musical concepts which will permit them to participate more fully in the Children's choir and bell choir. The little ones also prepare for participation in church services, just like the older children.
The Youth and Children's groups participate regularly in church services. Instrumentalists and soloists from the Children's and Youth music program also have opportunities to give their gifts.
If you or someone you know would like information about joining our groups, please contact Bonnie Woolley. Everyone is welcome!