Music Department Organization of the Pentecostals of Alexandria
Mickey Mangun

Music Department Socials

Because of the lack of time for fellowship on Sundays, planned socials are very special. The Music Department has several socials per year, and individual participation in these will be a blessing to all involved. The socials will help to facilitate better relationships between Music Department personnel and the general Music Department.

Other Procedures and Reminders

* Following the rehearsals and prayer, remain in a worshipful attitude prior to entering the sanctuary
* Refrain from all unnecessary movement and talking while in the choir loft or platform
* Always watch the Director for sitting and standing cues. Sit and stand together with elbows touching to move as one. Any talking and moving around in the choir loft will be amplified by the microphones and heard throughout the congregation. The reverence displayed as a choir and orchestra will set the mood for the entire worship service
* Whenever the choir and orchestra are seen publicly, always strive to maintain a professional attitude and appearance.
* If you know of someone in the choir or orchestra who is sick and/or in need of encouragement, please inform the <coordinator
* Call your Section Leader for all schedule and rehearsal information
* All choir members are responsible for cups, trash, etc. which they bring into the choir room

*NOTE: Absolutely no food or drinks of any type are permitted in the choir-robe area. Your complete cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated.

Pentecostals of Alexandria: Music Department Mission Statement

The Music Department of The Pentecostal s of Alexandria pledges to first and foremost go before the congregation in praise and worship through music, voice, actions, and lifestyle. As such, we will abide by all platform guidelines as set forth by the pastors of this assembly as well as all organizational guidelines as set forth in the Music Handbook and will seek to be as professional, technically correct, and as spiritually anointed as possible, collectively and as individuals.

A Word from our Pastor

God has done great things for and through The Pentecostals of Alexandria. We have seen His mighty and wondrous acts we have been, like Peter, “eyewitnesses of His majesty.” Yet, I am convinced that we have only skimmed the surface of what He intends for us to accomplish before this decade and century closes. And, I believe that the Music Department is an integral part of the work of the ministry of this church.

As a member of the Music Department, you are a part of one of the most visible ministries of this church. Unique doors of opportunity to lift Jesus up in music and song will be afforded to you. Your worship, your commitment to Christ and His kingdom will be observed by many as you represent not only this church but Him to all who hear you sing. Always remember, there is a price to be paid for usefulness in the kingdom.

The Psalmist said, “Sing joyfully to the Lord – play skillfully and shout for joy!” David wrote of how the Lord loves righteousness and justice, of His faithfulness, and His mercy that endures forever. While we can all “make a joyful noise unto the Lord”  playing and singing skillfully requires practice and dedication. As choir members we must be committed to walk before Him in righteousness, to serve Him faithfully that all the inhabitants of the world, and Alexandria, will “stand in awe of Him.”

I challenge you to sing joyfully, to praise Him with the harp and the ten stringed instrument, to sing a new song, to shout for joy, and to live righteously and uprightly before the Lord.  “For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth. He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.”

Yours for the Kingdom,
Anthony Mangun
Pastor

From the Heart

Did you know God was a musician? A singer? Even a songwriter? When He created the universe, He put music into every part of his creation. The scripture refers time and again to His song, the stars sing, valleys sin, mountains sing, trees clap their hands, the sea roars a song of praise, all creation lifts its voice, and the very stones will cry out if we don’t lift our hearts in praise. Where He is, there is music!

The Mater has called you to divine service. He has entrusted each of us with one of the highest privileges afforded to humankind. We have been chosen to lift Him up to the world, that He might draw all men unto Him. We are to be Light-bearers in a sin-darkened world. Our music is to bring hope to the hopeless, and healing to the hurting. In the darkest night of the soul, we are to sing His song of Light!

We thank you for being a part of the Music Department of The Pentecostals of Alexandria. We have committed ourselves to Him, to His service, and we have committed ourselves to you. Let’s join hearts, hands, and voices, and sing unto Him a new song!

Lift Him Up!
Mickey Mangun, James Owen, Melani Shock
Requirements for Choir Membership

Each person interested in membership in the Alexandria Sanctuary Choir must obtain a membership packet from the Administrative Secretary/Membership Coordinator. The application must be filled out and returned to the Administrative Secretary/Membership Coordinator no later than one week prior to the scheduled audition date. All additional membership requirements will be provided in the membership packet.

Each year, the Music Department will hold its Music Advance. Attendance at the Music Advance is required of all persons who want to be active in the Alexandria Sanctuary Coir. Spouses are also invited to the Music Advance.

Choir Attendance Guidelines

All choir members pledge to diligently uplift the choir ministry of The Pentecostals of Alexandria. All choir members are expected to maintain at least a 70% attendance average, including excused and unexcused absences. Choir members who do not meet this criteria may find their membership in jeopardy. Attendance records of all members are kept on a weekly basis and are compiled by the Choir President. If you are going to be absent or tardy for a rehearsal or worship service, it is required that you call your Section Leader prior to the fact. If after numerous attempts you fail to reach your Section Leader, you may call the Choir President or the Administrative Secretary/Membership Coordinator.

At the end of each quarter, an evaluation of each choir member�s attendance, attitude, and awareness is assessed and attendance percentages are sent out.

Absences & Tardies for Choir

Excused: An absence or tardy reported to Section Leader prior to rehearsal and worship service. An excused absence involves work conflicts, illnesses, deaths, and scheduled vacations. Two excused tardies are the equivalent of one excused absence.

Unexcused: An absence or tardy from a scheduled rehearsal or worship service with failure to contact your Section Leader. Two unexcused tardies are the equivalent of one unexcused absence. Four unexcused absences will result in dismissal. Any member so dismissed will not be eligible to audition until the second audition date after date of dismissal.

Leaves of Absence for Choir

If an extended absence from the choir becomes necessary, it is required that a leave of absence form be obtained from the Administrative Secretary/Membership Coordinator. An appointment must then be made with the Director of Music through the church office and the completed request form by presented “in person” at that time. During this appointment, the duration of the leave and the anticipated date of return will be established. The leave of absence will begin on the date established at this appointment. The approved leave of absence form must then be returned to the Administrative Secretary/Membership Coordinator. Before date of return, an appointment must be made with the Senior Pastor. Seat placement may not be retained following a leave of absence. Failure to follow this procedure will result in immediate dismissal from the choir.

Choir Robes

The choir robe assigned to you is not your own; it belongs to The Pentecostals of Alexandria. Please keep this attitude in mind as you take care of the robe. After wearing, hang the robe in its proper place, right-side-out, zipped, and straightened so as not to wrinkle it.

If the robe assigned to you is missed or needs special attention, inform the Choir President or the Administrative Secretary/Membership Coordinator immediately. Your full cooperation in this matter will be greatly appreciated and will help avoid unnecessary confusion.

Worship Service and Rehearsal Schedule for Choir

Sunday 11:00 AM Worship Service
10:55 AM Assemble quietly and prepare to enter choir loft
11:05 AM Enter choir loft on light cue. No entry after door is closed and choir is on platform. Remain in choir loft until dismissed by Director of Music.

Sunday 6:00 PM Worship Service
4:45 PM Rehearsal in Choir Room
5:30 PM Prayer in Prayer Room
5:55 PM Assemble quietly and prepare to enter choir loft
6:00 PM Enter choir loft on light cue. No entry after door is closed and choir is on platform. Remain in choir loft until dismissed by Director of Music.

Tuesday 7:00 PM Rehearsal
7:00 PM Choir Room

Requirements for Membership for Orchestra

Each person interested in membership must obtain a membership packet form the Orchestra President or Administrative Assistant. Upon completion of the application, an interview date with the Orchestra President, Administrative Assistant and the Director of Music will be scheduled. All additional requirements will be provided in the membership packet.

Each year, the Music Department will hold its Music Advance. Attendance at the Music Advance is required of all persons who want to be active in the Alexandria Sanctuary Orchestra/Rhythm Section. Spouses are also invited to the Music Advance.

Attendance Guidelines for Orchestra

All regular members are expected to be faithful and punctual in attendance of rehearsals, special programs and services that performances are scheduled.

If an absence is anticipated, the instrumentalist should contact the Orchestra President or Administrative Assistant as soon as possible to make sure that part is covered in rehearsals and services. Failure to report an absence will be considered unexcused and will place membership in jeopardy. An excused absence involves work conflicts, illnesses, deaths, and scheduled vacations.

Termination of Membership

A member shall be deleted from the roster for the following reasons:

A. Personal request for leave/resignation
B. After moving from Alexandria area and/or transferring church membership
C. Violation of attendance guidelines

Care of Music

Our philosophy concerning music is that all music belongs to God. He provided the inspiration to write the music; He commissioned great people to direct His music; and He created great people to perform His music. The music is merely a loan from God to us to use as an instrument for His praise and glory. Such possessions should receive thoughtful care and consideration. All members are responsible for his/her music folder.

Please report any lost or torn music to the Orchestra President or Administrative Assistant.

From time to time, learning tapes will be available to assist you in your private rehearsal time.

Individual Practice

All instrumentalists are encouraged to spend time practicing outside the regular rehearsals. Occasionally, music will be handed out in advance if it is difficult. Because of the amount of music performed during services, it would be wise to keep your “chops” in shape, and musical skills sharp, so as a unit we can minister more effectively.

Worship Service and Rehearsal Schedule

Sunday 6:00 PM Worship Service
4:00 PM Rhythm Section rehearsal in Choir Room. You will be joined by choir and orchestra at 4:45 PM
4:45 PM Orchestra rehearsal with choir and rhythm section in Choir Room
5:30 PM Prayer in prayer room
5:55 PM Prepare to take seats on platform
6:00 PM Service begins

Wednesday 8:30 PM Rehearsal
8:30 PM Orchestra Rehearsal in Orchestra Room
Constitution

I. Preamble

This constitution has been adopted to further the aims and growth of the Music Department of this church. It will govern the selection of officers and the appointment of leaders who will plan and maintain the functional operation of the Music Department.

The Music Department is a vital and integral part of the outreach ministry of this church, therefore, we will dedicate our efforts to the furtherance of God’s Kingdom in the hearts of all we touch with this ministry. We recognize the need to serve wherever needed for the welfare of the group and will subordinate our individual prominence to its rightful place in relation to the group.

II. Constitutional Amendments

Constitutional changes may be made by a simple majority vote of the Music Staff. A suggestion may be presented by any member for approval by the Music Staff. The proposed amendment will be presented to the Music Staff in the form of a recommendation. By-laws and policies will be determined by current needs

III. Structure of the Administrative Body

The Administrative Body of the Music Department is comprised of the Music Staff, headed by the Director of Music and Executive Committee. Selection of the members to fill positions within the Music Staff is based on administrative leadership ability, initiative, spiritual maturity, and past performance.

The Executive Committee is appointed by the Director of Music, and its responsibilities are determined by the Director of Music based upon the above-mentioned pre-requisites. Section Leaders are elected annually. Other Music Staff members are appointed annually by the Executive Committee. No Music Staff member may hold two offices.

A. Executive Committee: Consists of the following members: Director of Music, Administrative Assistants, Administrative Secretary/ Membership Coordinator, Choir President, Choir Vice-President, and Orchestra President
B. Music Staff: Consists of the following members: Executive Committee, Section Leaders, <coodinator, fff=”” coordinator,=”” and=”” media=”” coordinator.=”” they=”” may=”” meet=”” on=”” a=”” monthly=”” basis.<br=””>
IV. Section Leader Election Procedures

Nominations for section leaders shall be made by secret ballot by members of each section. No cross-over nominations between sections shall be permitted. The names of the two (2) persons form each section receiving the highest number of nomination votes shall be presented to the sections for a vote by secret ballot. The person receiving a simple majority of the votes from within their section shall be elected. Should one of the two nominees decline the nomination, the remaining nominee shall be declared elected by acclamation.

Officers and Duties

A. Director of Music
B. Administrative Assistants
a. Works directly with the Director of Music for all Music Department activities
b. Choir/orchestra Liaison
c. Platform/ Production Liaison
d. Tour Coordinator
e. Communication Letters
C. Administrative Secretary/Membership Coordinator
a. Records minutes of Music Staff meetings.
b. Prepares and distributes agendas, handouts, choir roster, minutes, etc. for Music Staff members.
c. Prepares monthly reports of all absences and tardies (percentages)
d. Oversees the functions of Section Leaders of new members
e. Coordinates functions with the President
f. Prepares application packets for membership
g. Leave of Absence forms
D. Choir President
a. Maintains master attendance records
b. Works directly with the Membership Coordinator
c. Assists Director of Music for choir function as needed
E. Choir Vice-President
a. Assists the Director of Music and Choir President in the overall function of the choir
b. Collects tithes, offerings, and collections for other activities
c. Coordinates social details with fff Coordinator
d. Presides over elections of Section Leaders
F. Section Leaders
a. Maintain attendance records for section
b. Report unexcused absences to the Administrative Secretary/ Membership Coordinator immediately following each rehearsal or performance
c. Report absences to the Choir President following each rehearsal
d. Maintain a record of all absences and tardies
e. Two-Way emergency relay: relay all illnesses and crisis situations to the Director of Music and Choir President, and contact the choir members regarding schedule changes and reminders, etc.
f. Know the choir schedule thoroughly
g. Call absentees of previous week before rehearsals and worship services to encourage participation
h. Contact the Choir President personally, if you are going to be absent
i. Utilize tender loving care. Ideas such as birthday and anniversary cards for all members of your section and their immediate family units should be shared and cultivated. The main point is regular contact by phone or mail.
j. Attend Music Staff meetings. Regular attendance at all Music Staff meetings is mandatory.
G. Fff (Triple Forte) Coordinator
a. Initiates and coordinates social functions for the choir
H. < (Crescendo) Coordinator
a. Oversees the general care ministry of the choir
I. Media Coordinator
a. Maintain Music Department bulletin board with current events and new member board
J. Childcare Coordinator
a. Coordinates childcare for each rehearsal and performance
K. Orchestra President
a. Maintains and reports attendance records for Orchestra to Administrative Secretary/ Membership Coordinator on a weekly basis.
b. Contacts absentees of previous week before rehearsals and worship services to encourage participation
c. May appoint an assistant subject to approval by the Director of Music
d. Works with the Administrative Assistant for scheduling, special events, services, etc.

Music Staff
Director of Music – Mickey Mangun
Administrative Assistants – James Owen/Melani Shock
Administrative Secretary/ Membership Coordinator – Melinda Joiner
Choir President – LaVerne Owens
Choir Vice President – Roni Powell
Orchestra President – Brent Croom
Soprano Section Leader – Vernell Hillman
Alto Section Leader – Karen Tison
Tenor Section Leader – Paul Price
Bass Section Leader – Carl Barnhart
Fff Coordinator – Debbie Costantino
< Coordinator – Barbara Allison
Media Coordinator – Tami Richardson
Childcare Coordinator – Pam Skluzacek

The above article, “Music Department Organization of the Pentecostals of Alexandria,” is written by Mickey Mangun. The article was used with permission from the Pentecostal of Alexandria.

The material is most likely copyrighted and should not be reprinted under any other name or author. However, this material may be freely used for personal study or research purposes.</coodinator,>