Martin Luther considered music a gift from God, second only to the Word of God.
At Augsburg, we treasure our rich musical heritage and our worship is filled with music - nearly half of the service is sung! The congregation sings portions of the liturgy, hymns, and psalms, while handbell and adult, youth, and children's choirs all share their love of making a musical offering to God and leading worship in Augsburg’s services.
Our congregational, choral, and instrumental music comes in many styles, including chant, German/Lutheran chorales, African-American spirituals, and music written by living composers. Instruments used in our sanctuary include a brand new (anticipated in summer 2026) pipe organ by Noack Organ Co., a Mason & Hamlin grand piano, a Thomas Pixton harpsichord, and a four-octave set of Malmark handbells and a four-octave set of Malmark choirchimes.
Music ministries are central to worship at Augsburg and continue a rich tradition spanning decades. Cantor Timothy Olsen serves as organist, choir director for the adult choirs, and is responsible for overseeing all music ministries. Our music ministries are enhanced with student musicians at University of North Carolina School of the Arts and Salem College through our organ intern and choral intern programs, as well as local professional guest musicians.
Adult Choir I
Leads the 8:30 am worship service
Rehearsals are Sundays at 9:45 am in the Adult Choir Room and are led by Cantor Timothy Olsen
Adult Choir II
Leads the 11:00 am worship service
Rehearsals are Wednesdays 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm in the Adult Choir Room and are led by Cantor Timothy Olsen
Handbell Choir - Adults and Youth are both Welcome!
Led by Music Associate
Rehearsals are on Wednesdays 5:30 pm - 6:20 pm and are in the Handbell Rehearsal Room
Children's and Youth Choir
All children will be invited to join in sharing our gifts and talents during worship several times throughout the year.
We will focus each week on a different element of the arts, rotating through: singing, chimes, drama, and percussion.
Parents are welcome and encouraged to join us to see what we are learning and to learn with us.