Choir

Goudhurst Church Choir; Background.

There has been a church choir here since the 19^th century, and it would originally have been of boys and men. In the 20^th century it started to involve women and they provide the majority of our membership today.

Our choir has mirrored many similar church choirs over the years, becoming a member of The Royal School of Church Music, which assists us in planning music, providing scores, and training our members, who currently number 12. The RSCM run courses for members from singing to organ playing all over the country, in cathedrals, colleges, and churches.

In the last few years we have concentrated on making a positive contribution to worship through an anthem during communion. These have to be suitable liturgically, so the service has a connective thread through readings, sermon, prayers, hymns, and the anthem.

We sing at the Sunday 10:45am service throughout the year, with a holiday in the summer, after Christmas, and Easter. On Sundays we sing hymns, an anthem, and most weeks, a communion setting. We are working hard to increase our repertoire, which includes music from the middle ages, to Tallis, Byrd, and up to contemporary composers such as Howard Goodall and David Ogden, even including Alistair, our organist.

We really enjoy the challenge of singing well, and the sense of achievement it brings. Music adds to the service, and helps people to know God by meditating upon it. 

In the summer we sing Evensong at Kilndown on the second Sunday of each month. At Christmas we sing at the Goudhurst Carol Service, and go carol singing in aid of the church. We sometimes sing at Weddings, and Funerals. 

We are always looking for new members of any age, if they read music or not, whether eight, or eighty, so if you enjoy singing, or want to start, why not come and join us?!

Choir Timetable.

Rehearsals:

Friday 7:15 to 8pm.

Sunday 10:20 to 10:35am