Choirs & Ensembles

The Riverside Choir is a talented group of auditioned professional singers who lead our congregation in worship each Sunday from September through June. Under the direction of Music Director Nathaniel Gumbs, the choir offers a rich and diverse program of music, ranging from beloved choral classics, to contemporary compositions, and powerful African-American spirituals. They also share their gifts at special services and celebrations throughout the year.

Open to experienced choral singers, acceptance by audition only. Music reading is required. Sign up here.

The Inspirational Choir, an integral part of The Riverside Church’s musical legacy since 1981, invites community members to explore the rich tradition of African American music. Under the direction of Nedra Olds Neal, the choir comprises singers with varying levels of musical ability who share a commitment to exploring the historical and social significance of this musical genre, regularly singing both in worship and at outside events. The Inspirational Choir has performed at esteemed venues including the Cathedral of St. John the Divine and Jazz at Lincoln Center and has collaborated with notable artists like Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey.

Open to all singers, no audition required. Some ability to read music is recommended but not required. Sign up here.

The Riverside Ringers is a renowned double five-octave handbell choir which plays a wide range of sacred repertoire, including arrangements of familiar works and hymn tune settings. Under the direction of Daniel Potter, they ring on two matched sets of five octave Schulmerich handbells as well as a five-octave set and three-octave set of Malmark Choir Chimes. The Riverside Ringers have played in New York’s Times Square for New Year’s Eve, appeared on the CBS Morning Show, and performed in concerts at Carnegie Hall and Caramoor. In addition to hosting Riverside’s annual handbell festival, the choir rings regularly in worship at The Riverside Church and performs at weddings, special events, local festivals, and international handbell symposia.

Open to all ringers, no audition required. Some music and rhythm reading is necessary. Sign up here.

The Riverside Community String Ensemble provides a nurturing environment where string players of all ages can learn how to play classical chamber music. Under the direction of Kristina Giles, the Riverside Community String Ensemble serves the church community by playing in worship and at other events throughout the year.

Rehearsals: Sundays at 1:00pm

Open to violinists playing at Suzuki level 3 or above and other string players performing at level 2 or above. Sign up here.

The Cherub Choir is a safe and nurturing environment for children in Kindergarten and 1st grade to be introduced to music. Under the guidance of Sharon Pritchard, members of the Cherub Choir are able to discover their singing voice while playing an important role in our church community, singing monthly in worship and participating in the annual spring concert.

Rehearsals: Sundays at 9:30am

Open to all students in Kindergarten and 1st Grade, no audition required. Sign up here.

The Rising Voices is an exciting singing opportunity open to all children in 2nd through 6th grades. Under the direction of Matthew Hommez, members of the Rising Voices continue to find their voice and develop their musicianship skills while building connections with others. Singing with the Rising Voices is a fun way for the children of the Riverside Church to contribute to their church community, singing monthly in worship and at other events throughout the year.

Rehearsals: Sundays at 9:30am

Open to all students in 2nd through 6th Grades, no audition required. Sign up here.

The Riverside Youth Choir provides an encouraging space for middle and high schoolers to further develop their voice, musicianship skills, and independence while serving their community. Under the direction of Matthew Hommez, members of the Riverside Youth Choir sing monthly in worship, as well as at other events throughout the year.

Rehearsals: Sundays at 10:15am

Open to all students in 6th through 12th Grades, no audition required. Sign up here.