BRUU could be described as a continuous music festival disguised as a UU congregation.  We don’t limit our “make a joyful noise” moments to just choir performances and musicians on Sunday mornings.  At social events, expect to see guitars, violins, drums, even wind instruments.  (No tubas have appeared – yet.)  At  the annual picnic, the garage band plays all day.

Variety is the spice of life.  To add more spice, we import touring professionals for our Chrysalis Concerts.

We enjoy creating music together, and we enjoy listening to each other.  In the Strategic Plan adopted by the congregation in June, 2023, enhancing our music program further was highlighted as one of BRUU’s top five priorities.

We have members who ae music professionals, music PhD’s, talented amateurs, and enthusiastic-but-less-talented amateurs…  There are also some of us who are music-challenged and aware of our lack of talent.  There’s a role for such people to serve as “appreciative audience,” perhaps humming along contributing applause/shufflause.  Yes, silence can be golden.

Our Music Director is hot stuff, often playing pieces he has choreographed himself on a variety of instruments.  Do not be surprised if you come on a Sunday when the choir sings, and for a moment it appears the pews will be empty as everyone moves up to sing/play.

Check out Selected Highlights from the 2023 BRUU Music Program.

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Music Director David Maley

David Maley started as our Interim Music Director on January 8, 2023.  On December 3, he was announced as our permanent Music Director.

David is an experienced music minister and phenomenal pianist. He is also a music therapist, piano instructor, and composer. David completed the music therapy program at Shenandoah University and currently holds the credential, MT-BC (Music Therapist Board Certified). His undergraduate work was completed at George Mason University, where he earned a B.A. in Music, with minors in Psychology and Exercise Science. David was previously the accompanist at Calvary Presbyterian Church. He also works as a piano instructor at a music studio in Falls Church, VA. David plays piano, guitar, organ, accordion, and sings. In his free time, he enjoys composing music, reading, kayaking, hiking, and being in nature.

Music is an important element of our congregational life.

The following is our safety protocols and choir meetings:
• Vaccinations are required and everyone must wear a mask, until changes are officially announced in our newsletter and website.
• The adult choir meets on Wednesday nights at 7:00pm in the sanctuary. It is not necessary that you be able to read music or have prior experience; anyone who can match pitches and carry a tune is welcome to join.
• Instrumentalists and singers are welcome to play for services, either solo or in a small ensemble.

Please contact our David Maley if you have questions at music@bruu.org or 703/361-6269.

BRUU choir singing at 2023 PRIDE Festival (Harris Pavilion in Manassas)