Music is a vital part of our community life at Govans. We are led by two wonderful Music Directors, Lea Gilmore and Marie Herrington. Many talented musicians from the congregation offer their gifts to enrich our worship with solo instrumental or vocal offerings, as well as participation in one of Govans’ musical ensembles.
Chancel Choir
Led by Marie Herrington on pipe organ, piano, and/or baton, the Chancel Choir of Govans is an exceptional volunteer ensemble with four paid section leaders trained in bel canto, western choral, and western classical singing. The choir leads worship with conviction performing music ranging from Handel’s Messiah and Rachmaninov’s Vespers, to premiering new works by local Baltimore composers and performing gospel music and spirituals by ear jointly with the choir of Knox Presbyterian Church. The choir performs 1-2 anthems every Sunday at the Traditional Service and practices at 7:30pm every Thursday night from September through May, all are welcome to join. If interested in learning more information, contact Marie Herrington .
Handbell Choir
Our talented Handbell Choir rings three octaves of bells as well as chimes with about 14 ringers. They perform about once a month from September through May. Handbells are a great way to get involved in the music program of the church if you don’t sing or play other instruments. Led by Marie Herrington, they practice at 6:30 p.m. every Thursday night from September through May. If interested in joining, contact Marie Herrington for more details on participation in our Handbell Choir.
The Govans Band
The Band offers powerful, spirit-filled music every Sunday during our first service. Musical influences include contemporary gospel, blues, folk, country, and traditional hymns with modern arrangements. The Band is under the leadership of internationally renowned Gospel, blues and folk musician, Lea Gilmore, On any given Sunday you will hear piano, guitar, bass, percussion, and singers, with other instruments joining from time to time including, ukulele, tin whistle, saxophone, and brass. They offer anthems, pre-service music, post-service music, and leadership of congregational singing. The Band practices Wednesday nights at 7:30pm.
Music Mondays @ Govans
On Monday evenings at 7pm from September to May, Lea Gilmore leads a variety of musical programming including a monthly Community Sing and special guests for diverse musical backgrounds. All are welcome to participate. No musical experience is necessary. To find out more about our music programming, contact Lea.
Concert Series @ Govans
Lea and Marie run performances at Govans, the most recent being the Juneteenth Jubilee Concert run by Lea and Roderick Demmings. Our next concert is August 2 with Patrick Flannery, and September 20 with our Artists in Residence, Nicolle Avila and Ramilya Saubanova. Check out our events page for more information about future concerts. To learn more about concert programming and seeing how you can fit in at Govans, contact Marie.