Special Service Planned for June 21
(Oneida, NY – June 17, 2015) After 14 years as the Choir and Music Director at the First Presbyterian Church of Oneida, Virginia Drake is retiring. The church is planning an expanded service of music and will be hosting a reception in honor of Drake Sunday June 21.
During Drakes 14 year tenure, she worked with four different organist/accompanists and three different pastors. Drake was instrumental in creating The Bell Ringers of Note and the Praise while serving as the Music Director.
“It has been a privilege and a blessing to have been able to bring the joy, inspiration and solace of music to the congregation of First Presbyterian and to have worked with such a dedicated, talented choir,” Drake said.
When asked about some of her more memorable moments, Drake said that one of her most memorable experiences for her occurred on Palm Sunday in 2010 when she conducted the Easter Cantata, “Who Is This King?” written by Lloyd Larson and Joseph Martin. Singers from other Oneida churches were invited to perform with the Presbyterian Church choir for a total of 45 singers. Pastors from New Life Assembly of God, St. Patrick’s Church, and St. John’s Episcopal Church joined with the Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Oneida, Stuart Wattles, to narrate the cantata. An orchestra of 15 professional musicians from the area accompanied.
“ It was a thrilling challenge for me and will always stand out as a highlight of my career,” Drake said.
Drake also recalled a performance of “The Prayer of the Children,” which featured many former students who sang in the choir and came back to sing in this special program.
According to Drake, the position of choir director was the final piece in her musical journey of 45 years. She taught piano for 40 years (retiring in 2009); directed musical theatre and drama at Oneida High School for 22 years (retiring in 2003) and sang with Syracuse University Oratorio Society for 38 years.
“I always wanted to have a choir of my own and this position came at just the right point in my career,” Drake said.
Sunday’s enhanced music service in honor of Drake will feature an expanded choir performing four pieces that are special to Drake, as well as some of her most beloved hymns that have been selected. Worship service begins at 10 a.m. with the reception immediately following. The public is invited to attend both events.
The first Presbyterian Church of Oneida is located at the corner of Brad and Stone Streets in Oneida and is accessible to the physically challenged.