St Mary de Haura - a church with

Throughout December 2022, St Mary de Haura resounded with festive seasonal

music.

We hosted concerts by local choral groups, and musicians; also welcoming local schools and colleges for their Carol Services. Once again, a highlight was the Town Carol Service on Christmas Eve. This Service of Lessons, Carols and choral music has been a popular event for many years, led by the Choir of St Mary de Haura and guest singers. This year, we paid respect to the people of Ukraine with two Ukrainian traditional carols - the Carol of the Bells and the overwhelmingly poignant Long the night. Music by English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams was also featured, marking the 150th anniversary of his birth. Music plays an important role in the worship and life of St Mary’s throughout the year. Our Services are enriched by choral and organ music – and we support the local community by providing quality music at weddings, funerals, memorial and school services.

The church acoustics are ideal for music with its splendid, vaulted ceiling - a perfect setting for concerts large and small. Musical events are promoted by our charity Music at St Mary de Haura, encouraging music in the community with concerts in a wide variety of instrumental and vocal music, performed both by distinguished professionals and local amateur ensembles.

You can support and become a Member of Music at St Mary de Haura. Members receive advance details of special services and concerts and are entitled to a price reduction at certain events. During the year, social events for members are arranged and a newsletter circulated.

The Choir of St Mary de Haura is key to the provision of uplifting music in our Services.

The choir is an SATB, robed choir – a friendly group of around 10 regular members, singing at the 10am Eucharist every Sunday and at a Cathedral style Choral Evensong (third Sunday, 6pm).Guest singers regularly augment the choir on special occasions. The choir’s schedule includes special Services at Advent, Christmas, Passiontide and Easter. The repertoire is adventurous and varied, covering a wide range from mediaeval to modern, both a cappella and accompanied by our magnificent organ.

Choir membership includes a mixture of amateur singers and former choral scholars. Rehearsals are on Friday evenings from 7.30 to 9pm and enquiries are always welcome from prospective singers. An ability to sing in tune is essential and some music reading ability is beneficial. Enthusiasm and commitment are equally desirable!

For choir information, please contact Stuart Hutchinson, Director of Music & Organist