Whether you sing, play an instrument, always wished that you could, or enjoy listening alone, our program welcomes you.
We value accessibility, participation, community, and—of course—meaningful music that connects you to a Sunday morning message, your spirituality, or even a call to action. Under the leadership of our Music Director, Staff Pianist, Staff Singer, and the MLUC Music Committee, we welcome all musicians (current or aspiring), music appreciators, and absolutely any genre.
Our music is open to absolutely anyone. If you have a musical passion, curiosity, or a great new idea, what are you waiting for? MLUC is your blank canvas—or perhaps, manuscript!
WHAT TO EXPECT ON SUNDAY MORNING
Music is a pillar of the MLUC worship experience. Whether it’s Celtic jigs and reels, pop ballads, Beethoven and Brahms sonatas, rock anthems, gospel choir, guided improvisations, or something else entirely, no two consecutive services will represent music the same way. Our hymns can be learned by ear—with lyrics projected above the chancel—or read from the hymnal, and are just as likely to include popular songs that relate to the sermon theme.
CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES
MLUC Choir
Our main choral ensemble sings many genres of music, and rehearses every Thursday night from 7:00–8:30, and sings for two services per month between September and May. All are welcome. No prior singing experience or music-reading ability required.
Popup Choirs
Accommodating our dynamic multigenerational services and the summer (off-season for the MLUC Choir), popup choral ensembles such as the Multigenerational Choir, Children’s Choir, and a cappella Chamber Choir rehearse and perform for Sunday services with only two rehearsals prior. All are welcome. No prior singing experience or music-reading ability required.
MLUC Band
This is no praise band! Our collective of rotating musicians presents non-classical, electro/acoustic genres including jazz, rock, pop, folk, gospel, and more. The Band performs for one Sunday service per month. Interested guitarists, singers, pianists, bassists, drummers, and auxiliary instrumentalists (violin, saxophone, trumpet, etc.) should reach out to the music director for an informal audition.
Community Orchestra
Have you ever seen a recorder, melodica, flute, violin, trombone, and electric bass all together in one ensemble? If you play an instrument—any instrument—you are welcome to join this ensemble that supports our multigenerational services, accompanying the Multigen Choir, hymns, and more. All are welcome, regardless of experience level.
Bell Choir
What would a congregational music program be without bells? Come ring our beautiful handbells in a tightly coordinated ensemble to herald our most festive events of the year. All are welcome. No prior handbell experience is required, but basic music-reading skill is strongly recommended.
illumine Concert Series
Boasting a lineup of 21 distinct, captivating programs in our inaugural 2024–’25 year, MLUC’s professional concert series offers a vast variety of genres and opportunities for participation including everything from “classical” recitals, to our popular “Jazz ‘n Joe” evenings, singer/songwriters, dances, singalongs, and so much more. Featured artists have included the Main Line Early Music Series, Jazz Sanctuary, Fairmount Strings, and many of the Greater Philadelphia Area’s finest recitalists and solo performers. Most concerts are completely free with a suggested donation, and ticketed events are pay-what-you-can. UPCOMING ILLUMINE CONCERTS
Open Mic Night
Facilitated by our own in-house singer/songwriter, the second Friday night of every month sees our intimate McGinness room transformed into a judgment-free, coffee-shop style performing art-sharing session. From guitarists, singers, and pianists, to poets, steel drummers, and theatrical routines; you never quite know what you’ll experience… or be inspired to share yourself! All are welcome. Acts must be family-appropriate. Signups are at 6:30 at the door before the 7:00 start time. SEE THE NEXT OPEN MIC
HAVE ANOTHER IDEA?
Reach out to the Music Director to discover your role in the tapestry of MLUC music.
Open Your Mouth
Main Line Unitarian Church 816 S. Valley Forge Rd., Devon, PA, United StatesOpen Your Mouth: A Concert for Advocacy & Action is an evening of powerful, resonant music in support of social justice. Blending classical song, contemporary works, musical theater, and popular music, the concert brings together voices from across genres to spark reflection, connection, and change. The program includes works by Stephen Sondheim, Hugo Wolf, Simon & Garfunkel, and […]
Cajun Dance with the Bayou Porch Rockers
Main Line Unitarian Church 816 S. Valley Forge Rd., Devon, PA, United StatesCelebrate the rhythms of Southwest Louisiana with a joyful Cajun Dance featuring live music by the Bayou Porch Rockers Cajun Trio! The event begins with a welcoming, beginner-friendly dance lesson, followed by an hour of high-spirited music and dancing. This local trio performs traditional Cajun and Black Creole two-steps and […]
Open Mic Night
Main Line Unitarian Church 816 S. Valley Forge Rd., Devon, PA, United StatesHave you learned a song or finished writing a poem that you really want to perform? Are you looking for your first-ever performance opportunity—or are you a seasoned professional seeking a casual, supportive venue? All are welcome at MLUC's Open Mic Night, hosted by singer/songwriter Nathan Surles. Please arrive by […]
Open Mic Night
Main Line Unitarian Church 816 S. Valley Forge Rd., Devon, PA, United StatesHave you learned a song or finished writing a poem that you really want to perform? Are you looking for your first-ever performance opportunity—or are you a seasoned professional seeking a casual, supportive venue? All are welcome at MLUC's Open Mic Night, hosted by singer/songwriter Nathan Surles. Please arrive by […]
Holiday Workshop
Main Line Unitarian Church 816 S. Valley Forge Rd., Devon, PA, United StatesA Free, Festive Tradition for All AgesJoin us for one of Main Line Unitarian Universalist Church’s most beloved traditions—our annual Holiday Workshop! For decades, families from across our community have gathered to celebrate the season with creativity, music, and connection. This free event is open to everyone and offers something […]