Hilltop Music Ministry Guidelines

Welcome! We’re so glad you’re considering using your gifts to serve the Lord through music at Hilltop.
Whether you sing, play, or simply love worship, there’s a place for you here. These guidelines are designed to help you feel confident, comfortable, and informed as you join our music family.

The Hilltop Music Ministry includes: Adult Choir, Orchestra, Special Music, and Children’s Choirs.

Adult Choir

How Do I Join the Choir?

It’s simple—and we’re excited to have you!

1. Attend a rehearsal.

Sundays at 5:00 PM in the auditorium.
You’re welcome to visit any time—we’re always ready for guests.

2. Review the Music Ministry Guidelines.

We want everyone to understand the heart and purpose of our ministry.

3. Complete a brief interview and audition.

This helps us:

• Hear your testimony and spiritual background

• Explain our ministry philosophy and expectations

• Determine your vocal placement (soprano, alto, tenor, or bass)

4. Start singing!

Once you’re placed, you’re part of the team.

Who Can Join?

• Open to 9th grade and up

• Church membership is required for full choir membership,
  but you may begin singing while you pursue joining the church.

When Do We Sing?

The choir sings in every Sunday morning service, occasionally in evening services,
and for special services such as Christmas programs, concerts, and revivals.

Choir Rehearsal

Rehearsals are Sundays, 5:00–6:10 PM in the auditorium.
Punctuality is next to Cleanliness, which is next to Godliness!

Rehearsal is the heart of our ministry. God deserves our best, and excellent rehearsals lead to powerful, Spirit-filled worship. We ask each choir member to strive for 70% attendance.

What to Expect

• We hold about 40 rehearsals from August to June.

• We typically break in July, select Sundays in December, and on Easter, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day.

• 70% attendance means about 30 rehearsals a year—a very reachable goal for most people.

When You Arrive

• Sign in at the Welcome Center computer using your assigned number.

• Pick up your music from your slot behind the choir loft.

• Rehearsals move quickly—we often cover 6–8 songs. Please stay focused, and save conversations for after rehearsal.

Choir Helps

• Rehearsal tracks (by part) are available behind the choir loft and online, including the Hilltop Choir podcast on iTunes.

• We sing without books in services with the lyrics on the confidence screens.
  Practicing at home will help you feel more confident and expressive. And yes—smiling counts as ministry!

• A printed and online music schedule is available at hilltopchoir.com/schedule.

• Our private Facebook group helps everyone stay informed.

• Childcare (Infant–6th grade) is available each rehearsal.

Worship Service Details

• Sunday morning warm-up is at 8:45 AM in Room 202.

• The choir lines up behind the loft a few minutes before the service begins.

Dress Guidelines

Men: Coat and tie preferred (not required).
Ladies: Modest, appropriate attire.

• Loose-fitting dress pants are welcome in the choir loft.

• Modest dresses/skirts are required for solos or special music.

Special Music

• Participants must be church members in good standing and members of the choir.

• More details will be provided to those serving in this ministry.

Orchestra

• Open to qualified players (9th grade and up) who read music and have intermediate proficiency.

• Weekly music is printed and placed in the orchestra folders behind the choir loft.

• Rehearsals:

  • 7:45 AM Sunday mornings for service music

  • 5:00 PM Sundays with the choir for shared pieces

Children’s Choirs

• Kids Choir meets Sundays, 5:45–6:15 PM in the Music Room.

• They sing in church every 4–6 weeks.

• Led by Mrs. Kim Brown, a wonderful and experienced children’s choir leader.