Music at MacKay
A Sanctuary for Sound and Soul in the Heart of Ottawa
At MacKay United Church, music isn’t just something we hear—it’s something we feel, share, and live. Whether it’s the stirring harmony of voices on a Sunday morning or the soul-stirring tones of a jazz saxophone on a summer night, our Music Ministry is at the heart of how we connect as a community and explore the divine through the arts.
🎶 The MacKay Choir
Anchoring our weekly services, the MacKay Choir lifts spirits and voices alike. With heartfelt hymns and seasonal anthems, this group of dedicated singers helps shape our spiritual atmosphere.
Rehearsals: Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. and Sundays before worship.
Open to all who love to sing—no audition required, just a love of music and community.
🧘🏼♀️ Music and Meditation
A Sacred Pause for the Soul
Part concert, part contemplative practice—Music and Meditation is an open, inclusive space for reflection, silence, and improvised music. It’s a spiritual recharge where sound becomes prayer and stillness becomes song.
Everyone is welcome, no matter where you are on your spiritual or musical journey. (Past recordings are here)
🎷 The Kindness of Jazz
Where Improvisation Meets Inspiration
The Kindness of Jazz celebrates the way music—especially jazz—can speak directly to the heart. With spontaneous compositions and soulful melodies, these gatherings invite musicians and listeners into a shared moment of connection.
This initiative includes:
Music and Meditation evenings
Jazz in June concert series
Pop-up performances at places like Alpha Art Gallery and the Beechwood Night Market.
The Curiosity Sessions: where theology, poetry, art, social action and music blended in divine harmony.
☀️ Jazz in June
Lunchtime Concerts with Heart
Every Thursday at noon during the month of June, MacKay hosts the Jazz in June series—a beloved local tradition. Featuring Ottawa’s finest jazz musicians, these concerts turn your lunch break into a soulful interlude.
Admission is free, with donations welcome in support of the artists.
⛪ Jazz Sundays at MacKay
The 4th Sunday of every month through December - MacKay will have Jazz based Sunday worship services featuring Jazz musicians from the MacKay community & the Ottawa Jazz scene. It will be an opportunity for some great music, singing and fellowship.
Admission is free, with donations welcome in support of the artists.
🎹 Sound Sanctuary (formerly Music & Meditation)
We’re making some changes as we move from “Music and Meditation” to the new name “Sound Sanctuary”. The theme for Fall is “A Joy Unknown” (Duke Ellington).
Sound Sanctuary begins in person on Tues, Sept 15 at 7pm in the MacKay Sanctuary. Watch the livestream here: https://vimeo.com/event/6178828
Leadership next week will include: Carolyn Sutherland, Peter Oliver, Peter Woods, Kyle Jordan.
🎤 You Can Book Our Sanctuary!
Looking for an inspiring venue for your next concert, recital, or recording session?
MacKay’s historic sanctuary offers exceptional acoustics, a warm ambiance, and seating for up to 300 guests. We offer a grand piano, a high end PA system with sound engineering station, remote multi-camera video recording, and stage lighting. We welcome collaborations with musicians, ensembles, and arts organizations throughout the Ottawa region.
Whether you’re a seasoned performer, an enthusiastic listener, or simply someone looking for a deeper connection through music—there’s a place for you at MacKay. Come find your rhythm with us.