First Praise Band
The First Praise Band has been together for several years. The members of this group play professionally throughout the La Crosse area but gather at First on a regular basis to use their gifts to bring praise to God.
Todd Saner is our Contemporary Music Coordinator, plays guitar, and is our lead vocalist. His enthusiastic spirit permeates the assembly when he leads worship. His arrangements of the Lutheran liturgy are used at First to bind us to our tradition and yet bring freshness to the words we sing.
Brian Renkas plays keyboard in the praise band but his musical talents go far beyond that! As a band director at Logan High School, Brian is able to play a variety of instruments and shares those skills when the music calls for it.
Dick Daleki doesn't just teach guitar. He offers his skill to the praise band to add another musical voice to the mix.
Gabe Hicks, First's organist, also sits in with the praise band when a member is unable to make it. Gabe is versatile as he can play both keyboard and drums. We are blessed to have him!
Jim Knutson directs First Lutheran's Ringers and also shares his gifts on drums for the praise band. His musical knowledge and talent is obvious: all who have ears shall hear!
Troy Birdsong plays string bass for the La Crosse Symphony, but he gets out his bass guitar for the praise band. He lays a sure foundation for the band and all who sing along.
Interested in joining? Have questions about the band? Click here to contact Todd Saner.