Youth Choirs & Ensembles

Matins Choir | Grades 9-12

Founded in 1955, the Matins Choir is the flagship youth ensemble of Plymouth Church, serving as a historic cornerstone of our Music & Arts program. Open to all high school students across the metro area—regardless of singing ability or religious affiliation—Matins offers a welcoming space for musical growth, spiritual exploration, and meaningful connection.

With weekly rehearsals and participation in 9 a.m. worship throughout the school year, the Matins experience is rooted in tradition while embracing innovation. Members engage in more than just choral singing—they learn, grow, and build lasting relationships through music, fellowship, and service. This program nurtures leadership, both in music ministry and in the broader life of the church.

Touring is a vital part of the Matins tradition. Traveling together and performing in diverse communities strengthens bonds among choir members and connects them to audiences beyond Plymouth’s walls. Recent tours have included destinations such as Lake Ann, Michigan, and Chicago, Illinois; Connecticut & New York City; Grand Marais & Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Rapid City, South Dakota & Estes Park, Colorado.

Under the expert direction of Ted Brimeyer, Matins offers students an exceptional opportunity to develop their vocal skills, deepen their faith, and share their gifts through music. Ted’s passion for choral music and his extensive teaching experience create a vibrant, inclusive environment where every student can thrive. His leadership helps choir members grow not only as musicians but also as compassionate leaders in their community.

• Director: Ted Brimeyer

• Collaborative Artist: Sohee Lee

• Assisted by: Sandy Miller, Caroline Kinney, Christopher Goodson

• Grades: 9-12

• Program Year: late August to early June

• Rehearsals: Wednesdays

  • 6:00-6:55 p.m. | Dinner in the Youth Room

  • 7:00-8:15 p.m. | Rehearsal in Recital Hall/Sanctuary

• Services: Sundays

  • 7:45-8:25 a.m. | Breakfast in the Youth Room

  • 8:30-8:55 a.m. | Rehearsal in Recital Hall/Sanctuary

  • 9:00-10:00 a.m. | Sing in Worship

Soul Singers | Grades 6-8

The Soul Singers choir provides a dynamic space for middle school students to develop their vocal and musical skills in a fun, engaging, and spiritually enriching environment. This group nurtures their growth through teamwork and creative expression, helping youth gain confidence in their musical abilities while actively participating in worship leadership.

Sandy’s background in music education and her experience with youth choirs make her an invaluable mentor, guiding Soul Singers through vocal training and spiritual reflection.

• Director: Sandy Miller

• Collaborative Artist: Caroline Kinney

• Program Year: September to early May

• Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 6:10-6:50 p.m. | Rehearsal in Recital Hall/Sanctuary

• Worship: Sundays, as scheduled about 6+ times per semester

• 8:30-8:55 a.m. warm-up for the 9 a.m. Service

Plymouth Youth Handbells | Grades 6-12

The Plymouth Youth Handbells offers a unique and rewarding musical experience. This group provides young musicians with the opportunity to develop their ensemble and instrumental skills and to contribute to worship through the expressive sound of handbells.

Beth Ann’s leadership creates a collaborative environment where each student is challenged to reach their full potential while growing spiritually through the art of handbell ringing.

• Director: Beth Ann Edwards

• Assisted by: Kate McLean, Elaine Lippert

• Program Year: September to early May

• Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 5:15-6:00 p.m. | Rehearsal in Rehearsal Hall

• Worship: Sundays, as scheduled about 5 times per semester

• 8:00-8:30 a.m. warm-up for the 9 a.m. Service

Creative Arts Camp

Each summer, Plymouth Church is filled with children and youth pre-k through grade 8 attending Plymouth Creative Arts Camp. This graded, arts-intensive time is filled with singing, ringing, visual art, movement, and more each morning, generally the last week in July. Registration begins during the spring semester. High school-age volunteers assist in the classrooms and studios, and are able to collect Silver Cord hours for their assistance.

Plymouth Instrumental Ensemble | Grades 9-12

The Plymouth Instrumental Ensemble is a fantastic opportunity for high school students to explore their instrumental skills in a collaborative setting. This ensemble performs a variety of music and provides instrumental support for worship services, contributing to the rich musical fabric of our church.

Christopher’s experience and expertise create an environment where students are encouraged to develop their technical abilities while also engaging with the deeper purpose of using their talents in service of the church community.

• Director: Christopher Goodson

• Collaborative Artist: Sohee Lee

• Program Year: September to mid-May

• Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 8:35-9:15 p.m. | Rehearsal in the Sanctuary

• Worship: Sundays, as scheduled about 4-5 times per semester

• 8:00-8:25 a.m. | Rehearsal in the Sanctuary for the 9 a.m. service

• 10:55 a.m. | Call for the 11 a.m. service (finished by 11:15).

The Power of Collaboration in Youth Music

One of the standout features of the Plymouth Youth Music program is the collaborative approach that exists between our ensembles. Students in the Matins Choir, Soul Singers, Plymouth Youth Handbells, and the Plymouth Instrumental Ensemble often come together to provide music leadership for church services and events. This collaborative environment fosters a deep sense of community among youth participants and strengthens their ability to work together toward a common goal—leading worship through music.

Plymouth’s Youth Music offerings are not just about learning music; they are about developing leadership, fostering teamwork, and growing in faith. Every student, whether a seasoned musician or a beginner, is welcomed into a supportive and encouraging environment where their musical and spiritual development is a top priority.

If you’re a youth interested in joining a community of talented musicians who serve with heart, creativity, and passion, we invite you to become a part of Plymouth’s Youth Music program. With a team of experienced directors and an outstanding legacy of music leadership, there is no better place to begin or continue your musical journey.