Choir FAQs
Who is able to join St. Matthew’s choirs?
All of our choirs are open to anyone, regardless of musical experience or faith background. Whoever you are, there is a place for you to sing at St. Matthew’s.
Do I need to be a member of St. Matthew’s congregation in order to sing in choir?
No. We relish meeting new people from outside our community.
Do I need to be a practicing Christian or confirmed Episcopalian to join a choir?
No. Come as you are.
Do I need to know how to sing or read music already?
No. The experience is designed to be accessible to those without a musical background. Furthermore, singing in a choir at St. Matthew’s is an educational experience. You will learn as you go!
What does it cost to participate in one of the choirs?
Nothing. We do not charge a participation fee or “dues” payment because by singing in a choir, you are doing a service to our community.
What do I need in order to participate in one of the choirs?
Enthusiasm, friendliness, and a strong desire to make music.
When are rehearsals?
All the choirs rehearse once a week. Visit either the Children’s and Youth Choirs page or the Church Choir page to find this information. You can also take a look at the choir calendars.
Do the choirs break for holidays?
Yes. The choir year runs from September to June and there are also brief breaks for holidays during the course of the year. Go to the choir calendars page for more information.
How will you keep my child safe?
Our top priority is the safety and wellbeing of everyone who walks through our doors. To that end, we follow the guidelines of Safe Church rigorously. Adults who interact with the children’s choirs are thoroughly screened and trained in Safe Church procedures. There are at least two adults on duty chaperoning every choir event.
How will I benefit from the experience?
There are innumerable benefits of singing in a choir, both for children and adults. You will get a first-rate musical experience while having fun and building friendships. This experience has the potential to help empower you, build your self-confidence, and provide you with a skill that will stay with you forever.
How will my brain benefit from the experience?
Children who sing in choirs demonstrate higher academic performance in both mathematics and language arts. Neurologically, their cognitive functions and social skills grow at a faster rate than their non-musical peers (source 1, source 2, source 3). Socially, choral singing allows children to express themselves, relieve stress, and make friends. Even for adults, singing together activates key parts of the brain and alters the release of hormones, making us feel more social, happier, and less stressed (source).
How do I register?
To register your child, fill out this form and return it to Andrew Leslie Cooper, Director of Music Ministries and Organist. New members are welcome at any point in the choir year. New adults can simply turn up to the next Church Choir rehearsal.
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Director of Music Ministries and Organist
