Musical Events Music is an important part of Gloria Dei's spiritual life.
"Make a glorious noise"
These words comprise the not so unofficial motto of the members of Gloria Dei 'Old Swedes' Church. Shortly after Reverend David Rivers arrived in 1972 a choir spontaneously arose like a phoenix from ashes. At times it has numbered as many as 18 beautifully blending voices, and coupled with the exuberant congregation, heavenly sounds often resound. Little wonder then that the time came when the pangs to do a "show" afflicted more than a few of the members. As luck would have it, we were blessed with a brilliant and eccentric choir director, a few congregants with professional theater experience and others who are just plain hams. Beginning in 1990 and continuing thereafter on a roughly biennial basis, we have produced musicals at Gloria Dei. The first was Godspell, followed by Celebrate Life, Jesus Christ Superstar, Brother Mo' (as in Moses) and The Tale of David. The latter two productions are original works written by collaborations including John and Juli Rivers (children of our former rector), Paul Fejko, Gene Sweeney and Michael Boonie. They have been a lot of work to put on and a lot of fun and we are looking forward to our next production.
Join Our Choir The Gloria Dei 'Old Swedes' Choir is a small, all volunteer group of singers who have a love of music and song in common. We tackle very difficult works, perform old chestnuts, and enjoy a good spiritual. We often have guest instrumentalists accompany us and are blessed to have Paul Fejko as our musical director.
If you are interested in joining us, just show up to a rehearsal. Choir rehearsals are currently held on Thursday evenings from 6:45 to 8:30 (with a social half-hour from 6:15 to 6:45) and Sunday mornings (before the late service at which we perform) from 10:00 to 11:00. Contact the church office for more information. Please note that the choir takes a break over the summer.
D. Joy Segal, Rector | Columbus Blvd. & Christian Street | Philadelphia, PA 19147 | (215) 389-1513
