Marcus LaPratt

Marcus LaPratt joined FUMC-Dearborn in January 2007. Originally from Lansing, Marcus has also lived in Albion (as a student for 4 years at Albion College and as a resident for 3 years as a music teacher at Starr Commonwealth School) and in Florida. Marcus has taught music in both private and public schools. And in 2002 he founded the organization "Singers Of United Lands" which consumes most of his work time. The organization incorporates Marcus' passion for cultural awareness and international relationship-building. Marcus enjoys traveling internationally (he's been to 30 countries). Marcus enjoys "squeezing in" a range of musical jobs in the area. He has recently performed in area theaters, and at Greenfield Village as a singer. Since 2008 he has taught in the music department at Spring Arbor University (Dearborn, Toledo, and Flint campuses). In 2010 Marcus joined the Ann Arbor based Dodworth Saxhorn Band as a vocalist for this unique 19th century musical ensemble.

Marcus and his wife Sylvia have lived in Dearborn since 2007 and were joined by daughter Lina in May 2009.

As the director of the Adult Choir at FUMC-Dearborn, Marcus hopes that anyone with a desire to praise God with their voice would join the choir. There's no attendance policy. If you can come to a rehearsal or to sing during a service, you're welcome! Marcus looks forward to developing the music program at FUMC-Dearborn into a significant aspect to the worship experience.

With regards to the church's mission, the music program at FUMC-Dearborn is an integral part of the church community. Each time someone shares their gift of music they are, in essence, witnessing their faith to those who hear. This happens each Sunday during worship services. Marcus plans to expand the music ministry of Dearborn First to the "community and world" by sharing our music outside of the church for various events.