WORSHIP ARTS

Whether you hope to sing in a choir, reading scripture, play an instrument on a praise team, or ring chimes in harmony, we are inviting others to join us and think about the praise and glory God deserves! We welcome you to consider the ways God has gifted you to serve with us in Worship leadership!

Chancel Choir is the Uptown Sanctuary choir that leads worship twice a month, September through June, at our 9:00am Uptown service. This group averages 20 to 30 members, and is open to senior high students through adults of all vocal backgrounds and abilities. Music selections are typically SATB and vary in genres from sacred classical to spirituals to contemporary. Weekly rehearsals are held Wednesdays, August through early June, from 7:00–8:15pm in the Uptown Choir Room, located on the B level. (Jose Clavell, Director)

Our CLC Contemporary worship team exists to create an atmosphere where all people can encounter the presence of God. We desire to lead the congregation into deeper worship through musical excellence, creativity, and passion. Platform worship leaders are made up of vocalists, guitarists (electric, acoustic, bass), keyboard players, and drummers who volunteer on a rotational schedule. The production team includes volunteer audio engineers, visual techs, and lighting & camera operators. (Amity Wagner, Director)

Instruments of Peace is an orchestra for students (10th grade and up) and adults. They rehearse Wednesdays, August through May, from 7:00-8:00pm in the Uptown Chapel. This group supports and enhances Uptown worship once a month during the school year, by providing preludes, offertories, and hymn arrangements. They also support presentations such as the annual Christmas music concert and Easter cantata. (Nathan Newhard, Director)

Walnut Street Players is a string group open to high school students through adults. Rehearsals are Thursdays, (time to be determined), Uptown Room 3. Walnut Street Players are available to provide special music, dinner music, and background music at church and select events. (Self-Directed - Contact Jose Clavell for more information)

Director of Contemporary Worship

Amity joined the staff at Ankeny First in 2015. She is responsible for planning contemporary worship and empowering  musicians and worship leaders. She has a degree in music education and music therapy from Wartburg College. Amity is married to Pastor John Wagner, and they have two children, Gabe and Landry.

Director of Traditional Worship

José Clavell joined the staff at Ankeny First in the summer of 2018. Originally from Puerto Rico, José moved to the midwest in 2013 where he pursued his Master’s of Music in Choral Conducting at Western Illinois University (2015) and is a graduate of Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico (Ponce, Puerto Rico, 2012). José avid foodie and beginner blogger. He currently lives in Grimes, Iowa.