Music
Lutherans are noted for their rich musical heritage and often have been referred to as "the singing church". Our worship and celebrations have been enriched by a collection of liturgies, choral works, and hymns through which we express our faith. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans has created a comprehensive web site with a wealth of detail on over 500 years of our Lutheran musical heritage.
Martin Luther himself loved music, and provided opportunities for the congregation to participate in the liturgy through music that praised God and proclaimed the Gospel. He encouraged and implemented the use of the vernacular language and reshaped traditional Gregorian melodies, making them more suitable for congregational singing. He encouraged poets to write new hymns, encouraging the use of the chorale as the chief musical vehicle for congregational singing. He provided both a liturgical place and a liturgical significance for the chorale in the liturgy.
Famous early Lutheran musicians include Johann Sebastian Bach, George Frideric Handel, and Felix Mendelssohn. Many of their choral works are integrated into our traditions as hymns.
Emmanuel Lutheran Church continues this tradition today with a variety of musical offerings and opportunities, to the glory of God and to uplift the congregation as part of the worship experience. This includes an adult choir which sings at the 10:45 service, and opportunities for soloists and small groups to contribute their talents to the worship service.