Music Ministry

For over 150 years, the First & Franklin congregation has been committed to excellence in sacred music, and the prominent role of the pipe organ and choir remains central to its worship.  During each service of worship, the Sanctuary Choir leads congregational singing and offers anthems chosen to illuminate the appointed Biblical passages. Reflective of First and Franklin’s diverse community, its voices embrace the musical traditions of Western Europe, America, South Africa, Latin America and others. The church honors the service of its past musicians; of particular note is that celebrated American organ virtuoso and Baltimore native Archer Gibson (1875-1952), served as organist and choirmaster at The First Presbyterian Church of Baltimore until 1901 when he became organist at The Brick Presbyterian Church in New York City. Dr. Jason Kissel is today the church’s Director of Music and Organist.

The congregation is blessed by its proximity to the Peabody Conservatory of the Johns Hopkins University and the Baltimore School for the Arts, for singers and instrumentalists teaching and studying at these schools has long enriched the church’s musical life. During the past decade, the role of music and arts has expanded to include The Spire Series, a community-focused performance and lecture series; a visual art gallery housed in Reid Memorial Chapel featuring the work of accomplished artists; a children’s musical training component; and numerous occasions when the Sanctuary Choir collaborates with church choirs throughout Greater Baltimore, which have included Gospel, Spiritual and Global Music festivals, and performances of large works with organ and orchestra.