Music is at the heart of most celebrations of the Holy Mass. Through song, we can pray, praise and unite as God’s people. Through a variety of styles and settings, the growing parish choir is helping shape a dynamic music provision that supports the traditional musical style of chant and hymnody with more contemporary and multicultural song, reflecting the diverse people of the Parish, ensuring everyone feels part of the music and words we sing.

Whilst prayer and praise is able to bring us closer to God, singing and music have a huge impact on emotional and mental wellbeing. When people sing, endorphins are released by the brain which helps to reduce stress, depression and anxiety. Regardless of whether you’re a trained operatic singer, the lead of a rock band or you only sing in the shower, singing creates an immediate sense of pleasure and is recommended by health professionals. Did you that birds sing to one another to make them happier?

We are developing a programme of music that will cover Gregorian chant, traditional hymns (including new arrangements of traditional hymns), contemporary hymns and worship songs, Taize and multi-cultural song. We want this to reflect our diverse Parish community so that everyone feels they have a place in the music and words that we sing.

We will use this music at events, such as Vespers or Evening Prayer, and at Sunday Masses.

The Choir is open to everyone, our only requirement is that you love to sing.

Rehearsals take place each Monday at 7pm in Our Lady & the Apostles church.

For more information or a chat about what we do, contact Charlie on 07763 715 497 or by emailing charlie@corkinchadwick.co.uk

FAQs

Who can join the choir?

Anyone is welcome to join the choir.  Whether you’ve signed a recent record deal or you prefer to sing to the car radio, you are more than welcome.

At the moment, we’re only open to adults. If a parent wishes to join the choir and chaperone their child, please speak to Charlie and we may be able to work something out.

I’m not Catholic or religious, can I take part?

Of course – anyone of any background is welcome to sing with us.

When and where do you meet?

We meet each Monday at 7pm in Our Lady & the Apostles Church. Rehearsals currently last around one hour.

What should I bring to rehearsals?

Bring a bottle of water and a pencil. Phones can be useful for recording your own parts but we will provide everything else for you.

Do I need to audition?

No – there is no requirement to audition. As we grow and we develop sections (soprano, alto, tenor, bass), we may work with small groups to make sure we’ve got you singing in the right place to make you feel comfortable, but this will be very few and far between and act as a ‘check-in’ rather than a test.

Does it matter if I can’t read music?

Not at all – we record parts for the music that we’re learning which can be accessed through our App and we can help get this set up for you. 

What happens if I can’t make a rehearsal?

Life is busy! We totally understand if you can’t make a rehearsal from time to time. Please just let us know (and catch-up on what you missed on the app to help keep things up to date)!

Some choirs ask for fees to take part. Do I need to pay for rehearsals or music?

No – this is part of our Parish Music Ministry. We are run by volunteers and are committed to keeping costs as low as possible. Donations to help support the music ministry would be appreciated but there is no pressure to do so; we want to be a place for everyone.

Is there a uniform we have to wear when we perform?

Not at all – just be you!