The robed choir was founded over 100 years ago,
and has maintained a high musical
standard since then. Originally a choir of boys
and men, occasionally augmented by
ladies, a girls' choir was formed in 1978, and
this was quickly incorporated into the
full choir. The choir is affiliated to the Royal
School of Church Music
. Currently the choir consists of
two basses, three tenors, three contraltos,
several adult and teenage sopranos.
The full
choir sings a wide
range of styles of music, and newcomers may well find that
this is hard work at
first. Currently we do not run a children's section
because of low numbers, but we would like to
re-form a children's choir. This would practise on
Mondays at 6.30, with the adults joining at 7.30.
The children would finish around 7.50, with the adults'
practice continuing to 8.30 or 8.45.
The only qualifications needed for entry are (a)
an ability to read words
reasonably fluently, and (b) a willingness to
join in and learn. We will teach
the music and singing.
Sunday duties include a practice at 10.00am before
the service at 11.00.
This ends around 12.00. Evensong is sung only occasionally, with prepared music. Other
midweek services are rare, one important occasion
being 7.30 on Good Friday.
The choir also currently has vacancies for adult
singers in all sections.
The musical programme demands for the adults a
fair competence at
sight-reading, and a voice that will blend well.
For further details, please
don't hesitate to contact the choirmaster, Dr.
Geoffrey Lockwood, 5 Sheffield Road, New
Mill, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, HD9 7EL.
Joining the choir gives children many opportunities,
including:
learning to read music
learning to sing properly. This is especially
helpful to
children learning to play instruments. We
also encourage children to play their instruments
in church from time to time.
learning to work as part of a team - choir
singing requires disciplined teamwork.
Choir outings from time to time. (e.g. in
the past we
have visited Flamingoland, Alton Towers, Lightwater
Valley, Blackpool, Superbowl, Metrodome, etc.
etc.)
