Voice and Theater Director Starts Children's Choir at United Methodist

From United Methodist Church of Mount Kisco

Nicholas Nicassio, a Manhattan School of Music graduate, Music Director and Vocal Instructor at the Play Group Theater, and Associate Conductor of the National Children’s Chorus, is starting a Children’s Choir at United Methodist Church of Mt. Kisco at 300 E. Main Street. This is very exciting to the members and pastor of the church!

“With his background working with children in music and theater, it was a perfect opportunity to further develop our children’s music ministry here,” says Rev. Karen Burger, Pastor of UMC of Mt. Kisco since 2012.

When former Music Director Darron L. McNutt relocated to Illinois, Nicholas Nicassio joined the staff in September, sharing music with the congregation for a few Sundays over the summer as well. He has received a warm reception from the congregation and community, offering music for the annual Blessing of the Animals outdoor service as well as weekly Sunday services. Every month, Nick writes an article for the church’s newsletter, and he is extremely inviting and community-minded in his approach to his work at the church.

“We welcome children and teens of all ages to get involved in music here,” says Nick. “Our children’s choir has seven children already and has had one rehearsal in November and will rehearse each Sunday from 11:30 to about 11:50 in the sanctuary upstairs. Newcomers are welcome!”

You may enter from the sanctuary doors in front of the church or from the parking lot via Halstead Hall and take the stairway up to the sanctuary.

The UMC of Mt. Kisco is pleased to announce that the Children’s Choir will sing on Christmas Eve before the 7:00 service and they will have many opportunities to sing in 2015. Teens are also involved in music at the church as instrumentalists and joining with the Choir for special occasions.

“There are several benefits to getting your child or teen involved in music here at the church,” says Rev. Burger. “One is that they will learn about singing and instrumental music from an extremely talented and well-trained Director whose background includes choral directing, vocal pedagogy, and composing and musical directing for film and musical theater, including children’s theater. People pay a lot of money to learn from a vocal coach, and here we are offering a chance for young people to learn from one of the best for no fee! The other is that they will feel the caring spirit of this church and have a positive experience that builds hope and faith. Nick is extremely personable and joyful, and this makes a huge difference in putting all of his singers at ease.”

For more information, you may email Nick at nnicassio@gmail.com or call the church office at (914) 666-5014 and speak with Pastor Burger.