Music Ministry
We Are All Ministers of Music
Christmas Musical Practice Hub — Heaven’s Greatest Gift
Pick your song and part, then play, skip ±10s, adjust volume, or download your track.
Practice resources for Yates Choir members. Please don’t redistribute. Need a CD? Contact the Music Office.
Find your track
Bundle downloads (optional):
ZIP notes: A ZIP is just a folder of songs downloaded as one file. On most phones and computers, tap or click once to open.
Everyone Has a Place in the Music
At Yates, music rises from gratitude and joy. We sing and play as one people—offering praise to the Father, walking in the way of the Son, and welcoming the Spirit who gathers and renews us in love.
Our music tells the story of God’s mercy. It’s as wide as the world, close as a prayer. Gospel and folk, classical and contemporary, choral and instrumental—each sound joins the same offering of grace. Wherever your journey has led you, your song belongs here.
Ensembles You Can Join
Yates Choir
Our primary vocal ensemble for Sunday worship—open to adults and youth. No audition required. Together we sing the story of God’s grace and joy.
Rehearsals: Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.
Yates Orchestra
Our instrumental ensemble leads worship throughout the year. Open to all players—young or experienced—each one bringing sound and spirit for God’s glory.
Rehearsals: Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m.
Connect with Keith
Youth Music
Students grow as musicians and disciples, learning that music is both prayer and joy. Led by Mackenzie and Keith, youth find confidence, friendship, and faith through music.
Rehearsals: Sundays at 5:00 p.m.
Meet Keith Longmire – Music Ministry Team Leader
Keith Longmire has been part of Yates for decades, bringing joy, humility, and a deep love for both music and people. A longtime Durham Public Schools music educator, he also repairs and restores woodwinds and performs with Leon Jordan’s Continentals Big Band Orchestra. His experience spans classrooms and concert halls, but his heart is in helping others offer their gifts to God in worship.
Keith leads with patience and grace, believing that when we make music together across generations and styles, we reveal something of God’s beauty and welcome. He would love to help you find your place in that harmony.
Email Keith
Made to Make Music
Behind every note is a person made in God’s image, bringing their gifts, their joy, and their whole selves to worship.
Music is for Everyone!
From the psalms to the Gospels, God’s people have always turned to song to express what words alone cannot. “Sing to the Lord a new song” (Psalm 96:1), because music carries the prayers and longings of our hearts. We invite you to sing your new song with us as a living act of gratitude and faith.