Dr. Eric Thorson Minister of Music
Dr. Thorson is a professor of music and director of choral groups at Carson-Newman College. He was awarded the Distinguished Faculty Award, the highest award given to faculty. In addition, Dr. Thorson is director of the Knoxville Choral Society, founder of the Knoxville Chamber Chorale and he has led choral performances in New York City, Brazil, Germany, Israel and many other locations around the world. He has prepared choirs for several notable conductors such as John Rutter, Noel Tredinnick and Gregg Smith. Dr. Thorson has also served in several leadship capacities for organizations such as the advisory board for the Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts. Since, 1995, he has brought this wealth of knowledge and experience to the music department of West Hills Baptist Church.
Vicki Purifoy Pianist
Vicki Purifoy has enjoyed a successful career in the media industry since graduating from the University of Arkansas. She lends her musical talent to the worship service as the regular pianist for the Sanctuary Choir. Vicki’s enormous talent adds an element of pure joy to our already robust musical worship.
Lynn Montgomery Organist
Lynn Montgomery is our treasured organist. She attended Maryville College and has been accompanying choirs and musical productions in the Knoxville area throughout her career. As a music teacher she provides humor to charm her students into loving music lessons. As our organist, she adds the passion to our new organ to make it come to life. Come visit us on Sunday and hear this special treat.
MUSIC
Music Programs
WHBC music is enhanced by a new 22-rank pipe organ. Through out the year special concerts and music events are held and the public is welcome.
Sanctuary Choir
Rehearsals: Wednesday 7:30 – 8:45 PM Choir room
The adult music ministry of West Hills plays a significant role in worship leadership for Sunday morning services and special programs. We are blessed to have many highly trained voices in our choir and a well known choir director to aid those voices in praising God.
Hand Bells
Rehearsals: Wednesday 6:00 – 7:00 PM Choir room
WHBC handbell ensemble performs at many services during the year. Additional solo and group instrumental performances are offered as well.
Youth Choir
Currently recessed. Youth in grades 7-12 worship through music on Wednesday evenings. They also participate in special programs and Sunday morning services throughout the year.
Graded Children’s Choirs
The graded choir program offers children a rich musical experience through which they are able to learn church music, praise and worship God, and gain spiritual concepts, music education and skills, listening skills, working together (harmony), joy in musical expression, and fun! Performances given by children are an outgrowth of good musical experiences.
Special Music
The music ministry presents several seasonal programs during the year including music productions and concerts by guest and member artists. Solos, duets, trios, and vocal ensembles from such institutions as the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, Carson Newman College, and Knoxville Choral Society are included in worship on a regular basis.
Music Ministry Schedule:
Music Staff
865.693.9272 | info@westhillsbaptist.org | 409 N. Winston Road Knoxville, TN
For schedule changes or cancellation information, please visit our calendar!
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