We like to describe ourselves as an open and inclusive community of faith. We think you'll find at First Baptist Church a wonderful music program that enables everyone to sing God's praise.

Since the days of the Old Testament, music has been central to the worship of God. First Baptist Church is blessed with a wonderful music program and magnificent pipe organ.

The music that we sing in worship includes not only traditional hymns, but also new liturgical music, sung psalmody, chants from the Taize Community, and music from other cultures and nations.

Church Choir
Leading us in worship throughout the academic year is our Church Choir is anchored by four outstanding section leaders from the University of Iowa School of Music.

Pipe Organ
Our Church Music program is greatly enriched by the Clara Hinton Memorial Pipe Organ, built by Temple Organ Company of St. Joseph, Missouri, and installed in 1994. The organ features ten ranks and 694 pipes housed in a handsome wooden casework. The scaling of its pipes is based upon modifications of scalings laid out by the famous seventeenth-century North German organ builder, Arp Schnitger. This instrument fills our Sanctuary with a rich and glorious sound that helps us to praise God in majesty.

Several times a year, we get together informally around the piano for old-fashioned Hymn Sings, where we sing favorite old gospel songs and spirituals. Every December, we spend an evening Christmas caroling around Iowa City, followed by cookies and hot cider. We also host periodic concerts and recitals. In 2004, we collaborated with the School of Music in hosting the annual Institute for Sacred Music, which brought to our congregation church historian Martin Marty, hymn-writer Carl Daw, and organist Craig Phillips. And on the lighter side, our annual Talent Show offers everyone in the church an opportunity to showcase their own musical skills.

We hope that you will soon join us in person, if you are able.

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First Baptist Church
500 North Clinton Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240

Phone: 319-338-7995

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