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I joined the staff of Manchester United Methodist Church in 1995, after serving churches in Texas and Iowa.  As Director of Music and Worship Arts, I have the great privilege to lead this vital ministry, which includes nearly 500 children, youth and adults in all facets of Fine Arts:  music, drama, dance and scenic arts.  Within this ministry, I conduct the Chancel Choir, Coventry Choir and Manchester Brass!  Worship Planning and managing the Joy of Music Concert series are part of my primary responsibilities.

In January of 2011, I was named Director of the St. Louis Symphony’s IN UNISON® Chorus and the Holiday Festival Chorus!  Over the past 20 years, I’ve conducted honor, festival and touring choirs (choral and handbell) in the United States and Canada.  A few of my previous appointments also include Adjunct Professor in Choral Music at Webster University, Assistant Conductor of the St. Louis Symphony Chorus, and Music Director of the St. Louis Metro Singers.  Additional highlights include performances at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and Kennedy Center, 10 commissions and 2 European tours.

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Janis Thompson

I was directed to Manchester UMC in September 2019 and became a member shortly thereafter.  I soon joined the Welcome Team, packed bags for Food 4 Kids, joined MO-Hab in support of Habitat for Humanity, enrolled in classes and Making Disciples bible study, and Disciple Bible Study classes.  I am

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Austin Shariff

Austin Shariff is Manchester UMC’s new Director of Modern Worship Arts! Austin served as both the Modern Worship Leader and Youth Ministry Director at Dardenne Prairie Presbyterian Church, as well as a member of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra’s IN UNISON Chorus.

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