MUSIC MINISTRY
At Naples United Church of Christ, our Music Ministry further extends our church’s extravagant welcome to members and visitors. Every year, Dr. Becky Weese-Rumpf plans multiple concert series and brings in top musicians (from the Naples Philharmonic and select artists nationwide) to perform for the delight of concert-goers and our Music Ministry supporters (through the Music Gift Fund). Special guest artists also perform with the Sanctuary Choir in concerts and Sunday worship services. Our music programming is exemplary and we hope you will take the opportunity to get involved by attending worship or a concert. If you love to sing, we encourage you to engage in services through our intergenerational choir. Please inquire about joining our choir with Dr. Becky directly.
The NUCC Music Committee is a tremendous source of support for our Music Ministry and presents the music programs, including the Sanctuary Concert Series and Tuesdays at Twilight Series.
SANCTUARY CONCERTS
Naples UCC hosts several concerts in our beautiful Sanctuary throughout the program year. All musical offerings are led by Dr. Becky Weese-Rumpf, Director of Music. Our 2023-24 concert season begins with Music Gift Fund Sunday on October 29, 2023. It is also the first Sunday that we will offer two worship services at 9 and 11 a.m.
Lindsay Garritson, Piano • February 4
A highly accomplished pianist known for her performances in the United States and abroad, Lindsay Garritson is an active chamber musician and a member of the Bergonzi Piano Trio. She is passionate about new music and has premiered works by various composers and holds degrees from Principia College, Yale School of Music, and the University of Miami, and has studied under notable piano teachers. Currently, she resides in Jensen Beach, Florida.
Trumpet & Organ • March 9
The Seipp/Sheets Trumpet & Organ Duo is a unique ensemble known for custom musical arrangements, blending virtuoso performances with humor, patriotism, and engaging visuals. Comprised of trumpeter Chuck Seipp and organist Randall Sheets, both accomplished musicians, the duo captivates audiences with their thoughtfully curated programs and interactive video presentations. Dr. Sheets is Ceremonial Organist for Arlington National Cemetery (retired), and Dr. Seipp is Sergeant Major (retired) from The United States Army Band, “Pershing’s Own” in Washington, D.C.
One Piano, Four Hands Concert • April 14
Jodie DeSalvo & Dr. Alexandra Carlson on piano.
TUESDAYS @ TWILIGHT
Naples UCC’S Music Ministry presents Tuesdays @ Twilight, a concert series featuring local and international musicians. All concerts are held in Beverly Hall. The concert series for 2023-24 season will be announced on Music Gift Fund Sunday on October 29.
Ragtime Piano • January 9
Enjoy a concert with Peter Bergin, featuring an uplifting mix of early American music showcasing the toe-tapping rhythms of ragtime and vintage American songs, with classic ragtime by Scott Joplin, James Scott, and Joseph Lamb, and songs dating from 1900-1925, such as “Alexander’s Ragtime Band,” “Darktown Strutter’s Ball,” “Alabama Jubilee,” and many more.”
Flute & Cello • February 20
Suzanne Kirton (flute), Joy Yanai (cello), and Dr. Alexandra Carlson (piano).
Violin & Piano • March 19
Magdiell Antequera (violin) and Dr. Alexandra Carlson (piano).
Violin & Piano • April 9
Askar Salmidjanov (violin) and Tamila Salmidjanov (piano).
MONDAY @ MOONLIGHT
Naples UCC’S Music Ministry presents the first-ever Monday @ Moonlight, a concert in Beverly Hall on Monday, March 4. Tickets are $30 and may be purchased at the door.
Sanctuary Choir
Our Music Ministry seeks and encourages talent from within the congregation. The Sanctuary Choir rehearses on select days in the summer to prepare the finest music possible for all worship services. The Choir also provides special music during the Advent/Christmas and Lenten/Easter seasons. Joining the Choir allows its members to perform with some of the finest musicians and is something to consider if you love to sing.
The Adult Handbell Choir is another great way to participate in our Music Ministry. The Handbell Choir meets on Mondays at 1 p.m. from January through April and is led by Wendy Willis.
Children’s Choir
The Children’s Choir meets every Wednesday afternoon as part of the Wacky Wednesday afterschool program. Children’s Choir is designed to awaken the awareness and enjoyment of music for each child. They learn basic concepts of music and have the opportunity to participate in several worship services through the year.