Music at WSUU
Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation is committed to a vibrant music program that creates as many opportunities as possible for members, and non-members, to develop and share their music skills. If you are a novice or an advanced musician there is a place for you.
Bert Gulhaugen, our music director and choir conductor, is assisted by a host of highly capable volunteers. To get involved, contact Bert and he’ll send you in the right direction.
Chorale
The Chorale is our primary Sunday Services ensemble and is open to adults and high school students who have a love of music, the ability to match pitches, sing in tune, willingness to explore a variety of styles of music, and a desire to learn to improve or enhance vocal and musical skills. The Chorale sings for services on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month, September through mid-June, and for special services such as Christmas Eve. Rehearsals are Monday evenings, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. in the sanctuary.
The Chalice Singers
The Chalice Singers focuses on world and folk/popular music styles and chant. The Chalice Singers is open to adults and high school students with a love of music, the ability to match pitches (sing in tune) and a willingness to explore a variety of styles of music. The Chalice Singers sings for services on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays of the month, September through the middle of June. Rehearsals are Monday evenings, 9:00 – 9:45 in the sanctuary.
Prelude
Prelude is our newest ensemble and is for beginners, less experienced singers and those who need help with their vocal technique, singing and ensemble skills. Come when you can, sing as much as you like and learn to sing and read music for your own enlightenment. We get together on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month, 12:15 – 1:15.
Polkamotive
Polkamotive is a polka band. If you play an instrument and love playing lively music, Polkamotive’s director Linda Anderson, will get you in the loop. Polkamotive performs for occasional Sunday services and special events. Rehearsals are TBA. Contact Bert for if you are interested in joining.
The Westside Drum Circle
The Westside Drum Circle is open to anyone with a strong interest in traditional West African hand drumming. Members work on a variety of rhythms from many traditions and play for the occasional Sunday service. Rehearsals TBA.
The Westside Recorder Ensemble
Linda Anderson leads a class of recorder enthusiasts who prepare music for occasional Sunday services. If you’d like to learn to play or already play and would like to join in contact Bert and he’ll tell you how to join.
The Westside Recorder Quartet
The Westside Recorder Quartet is made up of more experienced recorder players who play for special events and occasional Sunday services.
The Musicians Roster
The Musicians Roster is a list of all WSUU musicians who want to participate in Sunday services and special services accompanying hymns or playing/singing preludes and musical offerings. It’s easy to get on the list, just call Bert and talk to him about your ability and experience.
Chalice Palace
Sunday Services isn’t the only performance opportunity WSUU musicians. Every 3 months we sponsor an evening of music and fun called Chalice Palace. Chalice Palace is an opportunity for WSUU members to get on stage and share the gift of their talents.
For Youth
We are in the process of building a youth music program so please contact Bert to let him know your level of interest in this valuable opportunity. Possibilities include a children’s choir, a youth ensemble and rock/pop bands.
Learn to Sing
Bert offers Prelude, an opportunity for less experienced singers to try out their vocal wings twice per month. Voice Workshops for more experienced singers are held at various times throughout the year. Both Prelude and Voice Workshops are held during the summer months as well. Contact Bert if you’re interested.
Resident Ensembles
Westside UU sponsors two resident ensembles that use our facilities for rehearsals, performances and music for Sunday services a few times each year.
For more information go to their web sites: