The ministry of music at Highland strives to give glory to God, to enhance worship, to provide an avenue for service, and to be a tool for sharing God’s love with the community. Highland is committed to creating and maintaining musical opportunities for all ages. New members are always welcome in any of our musical groups. 

Chancel Choir and Highland Ringers
Make A Joyful Noise! If you have musical talent you’ve otherwise been “hiding under a bushel,” or you’ve taken a hiatus, it’s time to let your light shine! Reach out to our Director of Music, Chris Gilliam or our Handbell Director, Haley Chapman to express your interest in getting plugged into these important ministries in the life of our church! Chancel (Adult) Choir meets Wednesday nights, 6:30–8:00 p.m. and handbells rehearsal time(s) will be announced soon. Anyone high school age and above can participate in these ensembles—all that’s required is faithfulness, a penchant for being musical, and a willingness to learn and grow together.

Susan first came to Winston-Salem to study music at Salem College. After graduate work at Yale University, where she served as Assistant University Organist and Instructor of Undergraduate Organ, she returned to Winston-Salem and in the following years was blessed to serve as organist at several area churches, including Home Moravian Church, West Market St. UMC in Greensboro, and Centenary UMC. Having played at Highland as a substitute organist in recent years she has experienced a true heart calling to be in music ministry here. Susan began serving as Highland’s organist in June, 2024.

Haley Chapman is Highland’s Director of Children’s Music and Handbells. Haley currently serves as a chorus director at Summit School in Winston-Salem. She has a BA in Music Education from Georgia Southern University, and a Master’s in Choral Conducting from the University of Southern Mississippi. She grew up singing in both church and school choirs and knew from the time she was in 6th grade that she wanted her life’s work to be with choirs and music.
In addition to working with our Children’s Choir and our Handbells, Haley also serves as a section leader in our Chancel Choir.

A Gift of Music and Ministry, July 26, 2026: We are grateful for a generous gift from anonymous donors that enabled Highland to acquire two exceptional instruments: a fully restored Steinway AIII, featured in today’s prelude and postlude, and a Boston GP-178 grand piano for the choir room. Highland’s other pianos will continue their ministry in new locations. The Vogel will move to
the chapel, while the Yamaha, given by the Rogers family in memory of Peggy Rogers and used in countless worship services, will continue to bless our congregation in the Fellowship Hall. A dedicatory recital featuring the Steinway is being planned, with details to come. We give thanks to our donors and to the Piano Committee members: Miriam Davie, Bruce Patterson, and Susan Bates for their expertise, vision, and many hours of dedicated work.