The idea for Hark Up Ministries began on the stage at the final Rock Vespers performance in 1998. Chris R. Hansen, a talented arranger and trumpeter for the show, realized there was an opportunity to continue the idea that popular Christmas songs could provide a great platform to share the story of Jesus’ birth. There was already an audience that had made a tradition of coming to hear this music and they needed a show to attend next year. Together, with like minded musicians, Chris created large ensemble versions of these popular songs and drew the talent needed to take the show to the next level.
The first Hark Up Christmas Show was staged in 1999 at Fair Haven Ministries with about 150 participants. Always searching for a new and interesting way to share the story of Jesus, the show over the years has grown into a multifaceted artistic juggernaut that has included talented Singers, Drama, Visual Art, Light Shows, Children’s Choirs, Dance Troupes, Magicians, and High School Drum Lines along with a large Big Band and 100 Voice multi-generational Choir. Now with over 300 participants, Hark Up is a large community that comes together each December focused on sharing the Love of Christ through the artistic gifts we have to share. About 5000 people attended Hark Up 2018 through 5 performances at the DeVos Center for Arts and Worship at Grand Rapids Christian High School.
Because of the show’s success, Hark Up has grown into a year-round ministry providing uplifting performances all over West Michigan. Musical groups large and small provide positive message based entertainment at over 70 events a year.
The Hark Up Horns Big Band performs at Festivals, Swing Dances, Weddings, Community and Corporate Events, as well as outreach to schools and student groups throughout the area.
Hark Up Worship provides music for Church Services, Special Needs groups as well as Christian Conferences and concerts such as Worship on the Waterfront. We also provide musical support for top touring Christian performers and a Patriotic series of concerts celebrating Veterans in West Michigan.
