Music at FBCDC

The music ministry at First Baptist strives to glorify God, enrich worship, and connect with people through its offerings. Rooted in the rich Baptist tradition and expressed ecumenically in a variety of genres, music at First Baptist is integral to our worship of God, both individually and as a community. Our thanks, wonder, and prayers are offered to God through hymns, psalms, canticles, anthems, and many other forms of music. Whether through a choral anthem, a congregational hymn, or an organ offertory, we discover the possibility for music to transform lives, heal wounds, inspire zeal, and bring us closer to the God in worship.

Chancel Choir

Rehearsals Weekly at 9:30 am

The Chancel Choir is the primary musical ensemble leading worship each Sunday at First Baptist. Dedicated to offering the best in worship, choir members serve the church and glorify God through music. The choir sings a wide range of sacred repertoire and presents special musical services throughout the year, often in collaboration with professional instrumentalists.

In addition to their musical leadership, the Chancel Choir is a warm and welcoming community of faith, committed to encouraging one another in spirit and song. The ensemble includes professional musicians who serve as section leaders alongside four singers in the Choral Scholars program. Participation in the Chancel Choir is open to all, and no formal audition is required. Whether you are a seasoned singer or simply love to make music, you are invited to join us.

Chancel Choir Interest Form

Interested in being a part of our Chancel Choir? Fill out this simple form, and our Director of Music will be in touch with you.

The Austin Organ

The Austin pipe organ at First Baptist Church is a magnificent instrument built by the Austin Organ Company of Hartford, Connecticut. Originally installed in the mid-20th century and expanded to its current iteration in 2013, the 6,000-pipe organ now boasts five manuals and over 118 ranks as among the largest instruments in Washington, DC.

Designed to support both congregational singing and a wide array of choral and instrumental repertoire, the organ is a central part of worship at First Baptist. Its tonal palette includes a variety of principal, flute, string, and reed stops that allow for rich musical expression across many styles and liturgical seasons. First Baptist remains grateful to the individuals who made Opus 2795 possible, including Michael Fazio, President and CEO of Austin Organs, and Dr. Lawrence P. Schreiber, who oversaw this project from dream to reality.
 

The Sanctuary Piano

In 2007, through the generosity of several individuals and families who call First Baptist their church home, FBC purchased a hand-crafted Steinway Model D concert grand piano. The instrument was signed by the late Henry Ziegler Steinway, the great-grandson of the founder of Steinway & Sons. The instrument is used in worship both for congregational singing as well as supporting choral and instrumental anthems.