The St. Thomas’ Choir welcomes all singers in ninth grade and above. While many are seasoned choristers, and most have music-reading skills, no prior experience or audition is required. We are a sociable and friendly crew! Rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings during the school year from 7:30 to 9:30, and at 9:00 on Sunday mornings. Repertoire extends from Gregorian chant to the works of contemporary Rochester composers; a deliberate effort is made to present the finest music from all periods, and from the wealth of diverse worship traditions represented among the faithful at St. Thomas’. Most Wednesday rehearsals are followed by an informal social hour. The annual lobster picnic in June is a festive conclusion to academic year, held at the home of one of our singers.
The St. Thomas’ Choir leads the musical worship of the congregation on most Sundays and holy days throughout the year. Special offerings include the Advent Festival of Lessons & Carols, the Christmas Eve carol prelude, and the service of Tenebrae on Good Friday. In addition, choral Evensongs and Masses with instrumental accompaniment are offered about twice annually.
The Junior Girls Choir is open to all girls in grades 3-8. Rehearsals are held on Thursday evenings throughout most of the school year. The Girls Choir vests and processes nearly every Sunday, offers an anthem about once a month, and serves as the principal choir for the Thanksgiving Day Eucharist, the Advent Chancel Drama, and the Family Eucharist on Christmas Eve.
A Senior Girl's Choir for girls in grades 9-12 rehearses on alternating Sundays from 11:30 A.M. to 12:45 P.M. This accomplished group sings primarily 2 and 3 part repertoire.
In recent years, a separate St. Thomas’ Boys Choir has been formed, with the demographics currently trending toward younger singers. Open to boys from grade 3 to the change of voice, the choir participates in the Church School Chancel Drama and sings for several Sunday services during the year. Rehearsals are held on Thursdays from 5:00 to 5:45.
A highlight for both children’s choirs is the annual Youth Musical in May. Each August they join with other area choirs for a four-day Choir Camp at Camp Cory on Keuka Lake. The music learned at camp becomes the basis for services of choral vespers held during the following school year. St. Thomas’ Church is affiliated with the Royal School of Church Music, and young choristers have the opportunity to earn badges demonstrating their knowledge and ability in the field of church music. Older youth also join from time to time in a Handbell Choir, especially at Christmastide.
For more information about music at St. Thomas’, please contact our Organist & Choirmaster, Rob Ferris (442-3544, x 11); email: rmf@stthomasch.org.
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