First Baptist Greenville

Worship

Music Ministry

Music is central to worship at FBG and shapes the way we pray, listen, and gather. From children learning to sing for the first time to experienced musicians offering their gifts each week, music here is a shared practice that forms faith and community.

Sanctuary Choir

The Sanctuary Choir is the primary choir for worship at FBG and prepares several major services each year. The choir sings a wide range of music, drawing from the classical choral tradition as well as contemporary and global

works. Long-standing relationships with Furman University bring student musicians into the life of the choir and create opportunities through the Herring Church Music Internship and Choral Scholar programs. The Sanctuary Choir has sung in prominent worship spaces across the country and continues to be a steady presence in the spiritual life of the church.

Youth Music

Youth in grades 6–12 participate in Vocare, FBG’s vocal ensemble for middle and high school students. Vocare rehearses on Sunday afternoons and provides space for young people to grow musically while remaining connected to the wider worshiping community.

Children’s Music

Music formation begins early at FBG. Children ages four through fifth grade participate in music as part of FBGKids on Wednesday evenings during the school year. Through age-appropriate choirs, children learn hymns and songs of the faith, develop musical skills, and experience music as a joyful and meaningful part of church life.

Herring Scholars

Funded by a generous donation by Sarah and the late Gordon Herring to the Foundation of First Baptist Greenville, several college students from Furman University are sponsored as Herring Choral Scholars each year. These distinguished music students sing with the Sanctuary Choir and provide solos during worship services.

Herring Church Music Intern

Funded by a generous donation by Sarah and the late Gordon Herring to Furman University, a music student is granted a scholarship to serve as an intern in the Music Ministry of First Baptist Greenville during the school year. This student sings with the Sanctuary Choir, provides solos during worship services, assists with Children’s Choirs and Vocare, our youth ensemble, and assists with other tasks in the ministry area.
 

Bell Tower Ringers

The Bell Tower Ringers, directed by Julie Treu, offer handbell music as part of Sunday worship throughout the year. The ensemble includes both experienced ringers and those new to handbells who are eager to learn. Rehearsals are held on Sunday evenings, with a seasonal rhythm that includes a summer break.

Music as Shared Practice

At FBG, music is not added onto worship as a performance. It is a shared offering that invites participation, deep listening, and connection across generations. Through choirs, ensembles, and worship leadership, music remains a vital way the congregation gathers, prays, and responds to God.

Our Voices, Our Leaders

If you feel called to share your gifts—or if you simply have questions about which choir or ensemble might be the best fit for you—we would love to hear from you! Please feel free to reach out to our music ministry staff listed here. We are excited to help you find your rhythm within our church family.

Laura Ritter

Minister of Music

Kimberly Coates

Music & Worship Ministry Assistant

Charles Tompkins

Organist

Upcoming Events

Celebrating Our Casavant Organ

Preserving a Musical Treasure for Generations to Come

This document celebrates the beautiful Casavant Organ, Opus 3583, a centerpiece of our sanctuary since 1984 that has recently undergone a thoughtful restoration and technological upgrade. By combining the classic craftsmanship of the original pipes and console with modern enhancements, we ensure that this magnificent instrument will continue to inspire our congregation through the power of sacred music for many years to follow.