Music
Music at Saint John's
Music has been woven into the life of Saint John's Parish since its founding in 1785. Over more than two centuries, the ministry has grown from a single choir into a program that spans generations — touching the lives of children, youth, and adults, and extending the parish's reach into the wider community.
The congregation at Saint John's takes music seriously. It is not background to worship — it is part of it. That commitment shows in the investment the parish has made over the years: in trained voices, a well-maintained M. P. Möller pipe organ, and a long tradition of inviting accomplished guest artists and ensembles to perform and collaborate.
As we look toward the next chapter of this ministry, that commitment holds. Whether you are a lifelong member, new to the area, or simply looking for a parish where music matters, you are welcome here.
Music in Worship
Sunday mornings at Saint John's begin with a said service at 8:00 a.m. and continue with a fuller choral liturgy at 10:15 a.m., where the Parish Choir leads the congregation week by week. Beyond Sunday, music shapes the great feast days of the church year, Choral Evensong, weddings, and funerals.
Our worship follows the 1979 Book of Common Prayer, and our music draws on the depth of the Anglican choral tradition while making room for the voices of a living parish. The organ anchors it all.
The Organ
The parish worships to a 1927 M. P. Möller pipe organ of 68 stops, 60 ranks, and 3,377 pipes. The instrument was built in this town: M. P. Möller was headquartered in Hagerstown for more than a century and was, at its height, among the largest organ builders in the country. Few parishes can say their organ was made by their neighbors.
The organ has been maintained and cared for throughout its life here, and the congregation continues to support its upkeep. It is an instrument built to be played, and it is played every week.
Choirs and Ensembles
There is a place here for singers and ringers at every age and stage. Interested in joining a choir or learning more? Contact the church office at 301-733-2560 or music.stjohns@myactv.net.
Children's Choirs
Saint John's has a long tradition of children's choir programs, offering young singers the chance to learn about faith through music, develop musical skills, and participate in the life of worship from an early age.
Canterbury Choir: Grades 4–12
Our youth choir gives middle and high school singers a serious musical home — rehearsing weekly and singing regularly in worship alongside the adult choir.
Saint John’s Parish Choir: Grades 9–12 & Adults
The Parish Choir is the cornerstone of Saint John's liturgical music. This mixed choir rehearses weekly and leads music for Sunday services, feast days, and special occasions throughout the church year. High school singers are welcome.
Saint John’s Handbell Choir
Our handbell choir explores the rich tradition of change ringing. No prior experience is necessary — just a willingness to learn.
Summer Pickup Choir
When the Parish Choir takes its summer break, the Pickup Choir keeps voices in the chancel. Singers gather shortly before the service, rehearse an anthem, and sing it that morning. Visitors and guests are always welcome to join in.
The Saint John's Music Series
Saint John's music ministry reaches well beyond the parish. The Saint John's Music Series opens the church's doors to the wider Hagerstown community, bringing in guest artists and ensembles and offering a venue where fine music can be heard by anyone who wishes to come. The Series is guided by its own Steering Committee and supported by the generosity of parishioners and neighbors alike.
The Series returns in 2027. The lineup is being finalized now, and the season will be announced on this page.
A Season of Transition
Saint John's is currently searching for its next Minister of Music to lead this ministry into its next chapter. It is a role with real support behind it: an established choral program, a congregation that values what music brings to worship, and a parish willing to invest in it.
If you feel called to this work, or you know someone who might, our Search Committee would be glad to hear from you. Learn more about the search →