COVID-19 Update
In light of concerns about the spread of the coronavirus in our community, Music Ministry is postponing all regular programming until further notice. However, we are continuing to do ministry online with occasional special events that may allow for in-person gatherings within the bounds of our safety COVID-19 protocols.
Any changes or developments will be communicated here via the church website. You can also call (803) 256-4251 and email fbc@fbccola.com with any questions.
MUSIC MINISTRY
Music Ministry is the foundation of worship at FIRST. Under the direction of Rev. Steve Phillips, Minister of Music, the various choirs and orchestra seek to glorify God, unify the body of Christ, and magnify the message of salvation through music. Community is an integral part of everything we do and we encourage an environment of joy and belonging. There are a variety of groups to get involved in covering all age groups. Whether you sing or play an instrument we invite you to join with us and use your gifts to worship the King of Kings.
Sanctuary Choir
The Sanctuary Choir is a group of people from all walks of life who join together for the purpose of giving glory to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Led by Rev. Steve Phillips, the choir sings every Sunday morning for the Worship Service. In addition to Sunday mornings, the choir sings in several big productions throughout the year including the Carolina Celebration of Liberty and the Columbia Christmas Pageant. Throughout the history of FIRST, the Sanctuary Choir has had the privilege to sing with Christian songwriters, Keith and Kristy Getty and on several occasions with the Billy Graham Team consisting of Cliff Barrows, George Beverly Shea, and John Innes.
Wednesday nights in the choir room from 6:45 – 8:00 PM.
Sanctuary Choir Calendar
Wednesday Rehearsals have been cancelled until further notice
Choir Calendar 2020
The Choir, Orchestra, Media Banquet – TBD
Sing for the 200th Anniversary Meeting of the South Carolina Baptist Convention – TBD
The 33rd Annual Columbia Christmas Pageant – TBD
The Student Choir is composed of two separate choirs, middle and high school. These choirs sing during the worship service, at special events, and on tour once a year. Student Choir is a great opportunity for those looking for a place to use their talents to glorify God, as well as find a place to belong. Historically this choir has sung at retirement homes and local churches in Columbia but they also have had the honor of singing the National Anthem at the SEGRA Stadium and the Colonial Life Arena. If you are a student, or a parent of one, we’d encourage you to give Student Choir a try.
Middle and High School Choir Rehearsals have been cancelled until further notice.
Student Choir Tour
The annual choir tour is where the students really get to show off their musical talents in concert style. While singing at venues is the main focus of the tour there are always some fun and exciting surprises along the way. Students are guaranteed to grow as music professionals on this tour and also make some memories in the process.
(browse the photo albums below)
FirstKids Choir has been cancelled until further notice.
In First Kids Choir we sing, dance, and play instruments! We hide the truths of God in our hearts through music and fun. Our Children sing in worship services and special events, including an annual full-scale musical production. Volunteers lead the choir under the direction of Keith Watson, a Christian music educator who has led children’s choir leadership conferences for numerous state conventions, associations, school districts, and churches. In addition, he has written children’s choir materials for publications produced by LifeWay and Growing in Grace.
FirstKids Musical
A huge part of FirstKids choir is preparing for the annual Musical. Each year the kids bring drama, story, and song to the big stage. The musical is a giant production with costumes, set pieces, and big dance numbers all focused around sharing the gospel. Embedded in each story and song are biblical truths that point to salvation in Jesus and every year the FirstKids choir loves to “break a leg” under the lights. It’s truly a fun evening for both kids and audience with joy that only a musical can provide.
(check out the Musical Photo Albums below)
Senior Adult Choir Rehearsals have been cancelled until further notice.
Senior Adult Choir is a fun group of people that love the life stage they’re in and using their gifts to bring joy and love to others. This group enjoys traveling to local retirement communities, nursing homes, and Shealy’s when they can squeeze it in. Wherever they go, timeless hymns and melodies are sung back to life with the audience singing or clapping along. Senior Adult Choir is fun, worshipful, and loving others through music. We’d love to have you join us.
Orchestra rehearsals have been cancelled until further notice.
The Orchestra plays for Sunday morning worship services as well as for special events such as the Columbia Christmas Pageant and the Carolina Celebration of Liberty. Also each summer, the Orchestra plays in a special concert featuring the Orchestra’s favorite songs.
Orchestra Calendar
Wednesday Rehearsals have been cancelled until further notice
Orchestra Calendar 2020
Orchestra, Choir, Media Banquet – TBD
Sing for the 200th Anniversary Meeting of the South Carolina Baptist Convention – TBD
The 33rd Annual Columbia Christmas Pageant – TBD
The Columbia Christmas Pageant is one of the premiere Christmas Celebrations in the South and we’ve been doing it for over 30 years! The pageant has become a Christmas tradition for thousands who come from all parts of South Carolina, as well as surrounding states, and beyond. With state of the art lighting, glorious music, and a cast and crew of hundreds, the Columbia Christmas Pageant will surely not disappoint. Bring your whole family to the Christmas Pageant and we promise they’ll be talking about it for years to come.
Ways to Get Tickets
Phone
Call our ticket office at 803-217-3250
Mail us a letter with a return address, the amount of tickets, and what time you would like to attend. (Mail to 1306 Hampton Street, Columbia, SC 29201)
Pick Up
Come pick up your tickets in person. Come to the Washington Street Parking Lot on the corner of Washington and Sumter. Enter into the building at the 4 white double doors. (Ticket Office Schedule – Monday – Thursday 9:00a – 3:00p, Fridays 9:00a – 12 Noon, Sundays Following the Worship Service)
Online
Order your tickets online (Online tickets will be available in November)
June 28
4:00 & 7:30 pm
The Carolina Celebration of Liberty is the longest running event of its kind in our state. It has been seen in person by well over 100,000 people and on television by untold thousands. From parades to indoor fireworks, the celebration is a flag waving patriotic extravaganza that recognizes and honors those who have fought to preserve our freedom as well as those who are presently serving. With the Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra from First Baptist, the 282nd Army Victory Band, and a cast of hundreds you will thrill at the sights and sounds of America as we celebrate our freedom, our founding, and our future! Don’t miss South Carolina’s premiere patriotic event!
Ways to Get Tickets
Phone
Call our ticket office at 803-217-3250
Mail us a letter with a return address, the amount of tickets, and what time you would like to attend. (Mail to 1306 Hampton Street, Columbia, SC 29201)
Pick Up
Come pick up your tickets in person. Come to the Washington Street Parking Lot on the corner of Washington and Sumter. Enter into the building at the 4 white double doors. (Ticket Office Schedule – Monday – Thursday 9:00a – 3:00p, Fridays 9:00a – 12 Noon, Sundays Following the Worship Service)
Online
Order your tickets online (Online tickets will be available TBD)