The Cathedral Choir at First UMC Elgin, under the direction of Katherine "Kat" Howerton, assists in leading the 10:00 am service through music each week. The choir sings a wide variety of choral music ranging from classical to gospel and ballads to African American and international spirituals. The choir is open to adults and youth, and while it strives for a high level of performance, there is no audition, and reading music is not required. Choral experience is desirable but is also not required.
Rehearsals are on Sunday mornings at 8:30 am.
If you would like to join the choir or have questions, please feel free to contact Kat Howerton.
Do you sing or play an instrument and enjoy contemporary Christian music?
If so, we would love to have you in the Praise Band!
The Praise Band leads the congregation in musical worship once a month during the 10:00 am service.
The group is open to anyone who wants to share their faith through contemporary music. We need singers, guitarists, keyboard players, and drummers.
Please contact Kat Howerton for more information.
Community Concert Series
Join us in the sanctuary for inspiring performances, sacred music, and holiday celebrations. All are welcome!
The Illinois Brass Band
Illinois Brass Band Highlighting the Music of the Elgin Watch Factory Band
Saturday, November 8, 2026 | 2:00 PM
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History sounds better in brass! Join the Elgin History Museum and the Illinois Brass Band for a special concert at the First United Methodist Church.
Enjoy a fantastic afternoon of music featuring a diverse brass program, highlighted by special selections resurrected directly from the Museum’s archives! You’ll get a rare chance to hear authentic melodies once played by the legendary Elgin National Watch Factory Band, brought back to life by a premier ensemble.
This performance is a joint fundraiser supporting both organizations.
Lumos Experiences
A Christmas Candlelight Experience In Elgin
Thursday, December 3, 2026 | 6:30 and 8:30 pm
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Step into a candlelit evening of festive music performed live by a **three-piece string ensemble** in the warm, historic surroundings of our sanctuary. The performance features an intimate mix of beloved traditional Christmas carols and popular holiday favorites reimagined in rich string arrangements.
Immerse yourself in the warm glow of hundreds of candles as we celebrate the Christmas season through music and light. The Lumos Candlelight Experience brings together exquisite string arrangements, classical sacred pieces, and warm holiday acoustics in our historic sanctuary.
Click on the photo to watch an interview with First UMC Elgin Music Director Katherine "Kat" Howerton. Kat talks about the Cathedral Choir and Praise Band.
