give
login

I joined the MUMC staff as Organist/Music Associate in November of 2007. At MUMC I assist the Director of Music in many aspects of the music program; serve as Principal Organist and oversee our two associate organists; accompany both the Chancel and Coventry Choirs; and direct the Youth Choir CANTATE. I thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to play the wonderful Colby pipe organ that was installed in 2015.

In 2015 I accompanied the Manchester choir in performances at the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, Italy and a mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome. In 2012 I made my debut at Carnegie Hall as pianist for Robert Ray’s “Gospel Mass.” In 2008 I accompanied the Manchester choir at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC which was favorably reviewed in the Washington Post. After graduating from Ball State University I taught high school for three years going on to serve as full-time music director for Catholic choirs prior to coming to St. Louis. Choirs under my direction have sung in Italy as part of the prestigious Pontificio Istituto di Musica Sacra with concerts in Florence, Assisi and Rome and masses at St. Peter’s Basilica with then pope, now Saint John Paul II as celebrant.

I have performed organ recitals throughout the eastern portion of the country and various churches in the metro region and have as an accompanist playing for many concerts and festivals. I was formerly staff accompanist at Parkway North High School and organist at Congregation Shaare Emeth. I have served as principal accompanist for the Lambda Men’s Chorus (Memphis, TN) and the Heart of America Men’s Chorus (Wichita, KS). In addition to my work at the church, I currently serve as accompanist for the St. Louis Gateway Men’s Chorus and the Black Tulip Chorale. Professional memberships include the American Choral Directors Association and the American Guild of Organists. I am a lover of mid-century modern design/architecture with a passion for the works of Eliel and Eero Saarinen, Richard Neutra, George Nelson and the churches of Harold E. Wagoner.

Other
Staff

Kevin McBeth

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,

Learn More »

Becky Strickland

As the daughter of a United Methodist minister, Becky Strickland grew up in Missouri and lived all around the St. Louis and surrounding areas. Music and books have been foundations of her life. Becky received a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature from Central Methodist University, as well as a Masters

Learn More »
Ron Headshot

Rev. Ron Beaton

A lifelong United Methodist, Pastor Ron Beaton was baptized and confirmed at First United Methodist Church in Kennett – deep in the Missouri Bootheel. He graduated from Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky and was active in the Murray State Wesley Foundation, the United Methodist Campus Ministry. It was there that he met his now wife, Kasey.

Learn More »
+ More

Weather Update- January 24, 2026

Due to Weather Conditions, Manchester UMC will not be conducting services this weekend. 

All services have been canceled. 

 

Watch Snow Special Service Here.