The Music Group at St. Mary’s was formed c1992 at the request of the vicar and in response to the wishes of members of St. Mary’s who wanted to sing some of the modern worship songs in addition to traditional hymns. The purpose of the group was then, and is still, to lead the congregation in the learning and singing of these songs, initially once a month, before the beginning of the 10 a.m. Service. As the group became more established, we were asked to sing during the administration of Communion too, and to sing more often, so that, at present, we are making a contribution to the worship on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Sundays, as well as at special services for festivals such as Christmas, Easter, Confirmation, etc.. We have an excellent relationship with the Choir, and occasionally combine forces with them for special services.

Over the years, we have taken part as a group in Taize services, Alpha courses, and several workshops on various aspects of music in worship, and we have also sung carols at the Secure Unit for teenagers in Sutton and at the Westwood Park Residential Home [formerly The Chase]. This year, we even took part (very successfully!) in a competitive music festival.

At the time of writing, we are preparing for our annual contribution to the church’s Open Day in June when we usually sing everyone’s favourites for about an hour. Despite this considerable commitment, the group has always been, and remains, very informal; we rehearse for only an hour, at 8 p.m. on alternate Tuesday evenings in St Mary’s Primary School Hall, and not always as regularly as that!

Currently, we have 17 members, including 2 flautists and a pianist and we usually average about 10 members at services. New members are always welcome and there are no special requirements regarding age, instrument or ability, or even attendance at rehearsals, so why not join us for a “taster” session one Tuesday evening? Details of the next practice can usually be found on the weekly sheet, or ask one of the group!

DP

Last modified: 23 May, 2004