A New Era of Music Begins at UCC
Music is vital part of our worship experience here at University Christian Church. It uplifts and influences members of our congregation, bringing us together to focus our heart, soul, and mind on God. To help us continue in this grand tradition, Morgan Kramer has joined us as the Director of Music at UCC.
We feel there is no one better suited to inspire our members through music than Morgan. You may have seen his face around UCC before, as he served as our Bass Choral Scholar since 2016. From the beginning, he has loved the welcoming nature, friendly congregation members, and remarkable music program he’s experienced at UCC.
When Mary Lu Johnston, our previous Minister of Music, retired in 2018, Morgan was excited to apply for the position. Knowing he would have big shoes to fill while still wanting to inject his spirit into the program, Morgan was honored to accept the position.
About Morgan Kramer
Morgan is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin where he received his Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting. An Iowa native, he received his undergraduate degree in choral music education from the University of Northern Iowa.
Outside of UCC, Morgan is also the Assistant Choir Director at East View High School. He sings in numerous choral ensembles in Austin notably the Ensemble VIII, Texas Early Music Project, and Panoramic Voices. He also serves as Assistant Director of Vox Peregrine, a pilgrimage choir that hikes and performs throughout Ireland. He is the founder and director emeritus of local Clay County Chorale in Iowa.
In his free time, Morgan enjoys traveling, hiking, cycling, baking, and watching Netflix. His guilty pleasure is the Great British Baking Show. Tex-Mex is his absolute favorite food, and he’s honestly not sure how he survived without it before moving to Texas!
About the UCC Music Ministry
Our Music Ministry at UCC is comprised of two choirs: The Handbell Choir and Chancel Choir. The Handbell Choir is comprised of 10 ringers, while the Chancel Choir is made up of 30 singers. Morgan aims to elevate each service through a variety of music ranging from contemporary Christian music to traditional choral standards with the two choirs.
Both ensembles are highly skilled and often accompany one another. Each choir features a collection of professional and talented amateur musicians across a wide age range. UCC members can apply to join either group with no audition required.
Upcoming UCC Programs
In observance of Black History Month in February, the UCC Music Ministry will be performing traditional spirituals, compositions by African American composers, and pieces honoring leaders of the American Civil Rights Movement.
Throughout Spring 2019, the UCC Chancel Choir will be collaborating with the University Baptist Church choir to perform Dan Forrest’s Jubilate Deo with chamber orchestra. This piece features choir members singing Psalm 100 in seven different languages. The performance will bring together the two congregations and members of the respective surrounding communities for a collaborative service at University Baptist Church on Sunday, May 19, 2019.
When you see him around UCC, please say hi to Morgan Kramer and let him know we’re glad to have him as our Director of Music. We are inspired by his passion for music, and we know you will be, too!