Music is central to church life at UUCA as it transforms our emotions, lifts our spirits, and inspires us to action. Wherever you feel your talent or experience level lies, there is a place for you! Our music program is for all who wish to grow and enrich the congregation through music. For more information on any of our music program, contact dmann@uucava.org.
We have ongoing programs with weekly rehearsals, as well as special events and opportunities.
Learn more about our choir, band, and handbells.
UUCA also partners to offer theatrical productions, learn more.
News & Updates
Read on for important news and upcoming dates for our musical programs here at UUCA
Regular rehearsals for music groups at UUCA are currently paused for the summer. We welcome you back in August as we sing, play, and ring our way into the 2026-2027 church year!
Welcome Krystal, UUCA’s Interim Music Director
Beginning later this summer, Director of Music, Dr. David Mann will be away on paternity leave. We are grateful to Dr. Krystal Stark who will be stepping in to help lead Junior Choir, Sanctuary Singers, and Sunday services while David attends to the needs of his growing family.
See below for Krystal’s bio. Many of our members may remember that Krystal served as music director and pianist for Chalice Theatre’s 2026 production of Tuck Everlasting.
David and Krystal invite those that love to sing to join the UUCA choir by attending the annual Sanctuary Singers potluck and retreat after service on Sunday, August 30th in the Reeb Center.
Dr. Krystal Stark is a music educator, conductor, and curriculum developer with more than fifteen years of experience working with singers and musicians of all ages. She holds a Doctor of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Music Education from the University of Alabama, a Master of Music Education from Wichita State University, and a Bachelor of Music Education from Wichita State University.
Krystal currently serves as an elementary music educator and choir director in Arlington Public Schools. Throughout her career, she has taught general music, directed school and community choirs, developed music curricula, and led intergenerational music programs for older adults. She previously served for seven years as Artistic Director of the Calliope Women’s Chorus and has extensive experience conducting both children’s and adult ensembles.
A passionate advocate for lifelong music-making, Krystal believes that music builds community, strengthens relationships, and provides meaningful opportunities for expression and connection. She lives in Arlington with her wife, Kari, and their two children, Aeris and Leto, who keep life joyful, busy, and full of music. She is delighted to join the congregation as interim choir director and looks forward to making music together in worship.
Chalice Theatre: New Opportunities for involvement in the 2026 inaugural Fall Show
Subject Matter Experts: read more
Subject matter experts: Do you work or have you worked in or with physics, WW2 history, nuclear or quantum theory, national security, military weapons and strategy, or political resistance? In conjunction with a production of the play Copenhagen in November, Chalice Theatre will be hosting roundtable panel discussions on topics that are raised in the play. If you would be willing to speak on a panel– or you know someone who might be– please reach out to D. Ohlandt at <profohlandt@gmail.com>. A copy of the play can be loaned to you for review.
High School Students: read more
High School students: Chalice Theatre is looking for high school students (9th-12th grade) to take the lead on technical, production, and artistic processes for the adults-only cast of Copenhagen. Teens will work with director D. Ohlandt and adult mentors in their specific area. Interested in lighting design, costume design, makeup/hair design, stage management, dramaturgy, producing, house management, or assistant directing? Reach out to D at <profohlandt@gmail.com>.
- Upcoming Meetings:
- Interest meeting and script read #3: Sun Aug 2, 2026 1-3:30pm
- Script analysis meeting: Wed Aug 12, 2026 6:30-9pm
Ongoing Programs
We have programs with different levels of commitment and involvement.
Sanctuary Singers
Sanctuary Singers rehearses on a weekly basis (Thursdays at 7:00pm in the Reeb Center). This choral ensemble performs twice per month during service and is open to ages 16 through adults. SS performs a variety of styles including gospel, folk, musical theatre, and classical.
Contact: Director of Music, David Mann <dmann@uucava.org>
Handbells
Polymnia Handbell Choir rehearses on a weekly basis (Tuesdays at 7:00pm in the Activity Room). This ensemble performs throughout the year during service and is open to ages 16 through adults. Polymnia performs a variety of styles including hymns, folk tunes, musical theatre, and pop. Prior handbell ringing experience is not required to join, but the ability to read music is required. Additional opportunities for younger ringers are available as well. For those with no prior experience playing a musical instrument or that would like a more relaxed schedule, please contact Alan directly.
Contact: Handbell Director, Alan Payne <via email
Junior Choir
Junior Choir rehearses on a weekly basis (Sundays, beginning September 21st from 11:45-12:15am downstairs in the chapel). This educational ensemble performs occasionally for services and is open to ages 5 through 12. JC performs a variety of styles including folk songs, social justice songs, pop, and songs in languages other than English. We also incorporate elements of movement, musicianship, and play in our rehearsals.
Contact: Director of Music, David Mann <dmann@uucava.org>
House Band
UUCA Band rehearses and performs in service on a monthly basis. We welcome all instruments and voices to come “jam” with us during our rehearsals. The band performs a variety of styles including jazz, rock, folk, and pop.
Contact: Director of Music, David Mann <dmann@uucava.org>
Special Music and Song Leading
Are you interested in offering special music during a UUCA?
Volunteers, including teens, are welcome to offer special music, play along with hymns, or collaborate in small groups as a part of Sunday services. All genres and styles are welcome!
Contact: David Mann <dmann@uucava.org>
Chalice Theatre
Founded in 1997, Chalice Theatre is an intentionally inclusive and intergenerational theatre ministry of UUCA. Stay tuned for audition and show dates our upcoming season. We are excited to share that there will be two shows in the 2026-2027 season!
Contact: <ChaliceTheatre25@gmail.com>
