The
musical life of First Unitarian Society of Madison is rich and varied. Traditional
masterworks, contemporary anthems, jazz, folk and world music find a warm
reception here. The Society Choir, the Meeting House Chorus, Children’s
and High School choirs, soloists and instrumentalists complement, and for
All Music Sundays, provide the core of our worship services.
New singers and players are most
welcome. For more information on how you can be involved please contact our
Music Director, Dan Broner (608.233.9774, extension 121; danb@fusmadison.org)
or Assistant Music Director and Organist, Linda Warren (608.233.9774, extension
127; linda.warren@tds.net).
Dan Broner Adult Choirs
Directed by Dan Broner, the Society Choir and Meeting House Chorus have a reputation for excellence in singing fine choral music representing an eclectic array of styles. The Society Choir, the original FUS choir, sings music of the masters from all periods and is the core choir for All Music Sunday. The Meeting House Chorus sings alternative music: spirituals, world music, and contemporary anthems. Rehearsals for the Society Choir are on Thursdays, from September through May, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The Meeting House Chorus rehearses on Wednesday evening also from 7:00 to 9:00. The choirs provide inspiration for Sunday worship monthly and are a source of vitality and fulfillment for the choir members themselves.
Children and Youth Choirs
Directed by Heather Thorpe, three graded choirs provide an opportunity for children and youth to develop an appreciation for fine music while extending their circle of friendship at the Society. Choirs meet on Wednesday evenings. Youngsters four years old through second grade rehearse between 7:00 and 7:30 p.m.; children in the third through eighth grade rehearse between 7:30 and 8:10, and the High School Choir meets from 8:15 to 9:00 p.m.
All Music Sunday
In spring a Sunday morning worship is devoted to major choral works with orchestra sung by the Society Choir with guest singers and soloists. An encore performance is provided for the community in the afternoon. Some of the masterpieces programmed include Bach's Magnificat, Mozart's Solennes A Vesperae de Dominica and Haydn's Mass in Time of War. In December all the FUS choirs join together for a celebratory Choral Winterfest.
Noon Musicales
The Meeting House hosts some of the area’s most talented musical artists every Friday, October through May, from 12:15 to 1:00 p.m. Bring your bag lunch and enjoy complimentary coffee (and sometimes dessert) while you enjoy a wide variety of live musical offerings.
