St George's Choir Website

Ripon Photos

2010-08-04T15:18:00.000+01:00

Email from Emma to Choir :

2010-03-29T10:10:00.001+01:00

Hi Everyone,

Thank you very much for some lovely singing today. Everyone seemed delighted with this afternoon's service and the military people have asked me to pass on their thanks to you and to say how much they enjoyed the choir's singing.

Just confirming arrangements for Holy Week. Apologies: the way things have worked out this year mean that the schedule is rather heavy. So can I thank you all in advance for your hard work and dedication to St George's.

MAUNDY THUR: 8pm service, 6.45pm rehearsal
(earlier than previously advertised - due to last Thursday's practice being cancelled: we need to get through stuff for Easter weekend)

GOOD FRI: 2nd half of Three Hours Service: 1.30-3pm (please arrive by 1.20pm to be ready to go in AT 1.30pm)
Compline, 8pm service, meet at 7.30pm for quick sing through

SAT: 8pm service, 6.45pm rehearsal

SUN: normal day (2 services) - 10.15am for 11am, 4.15pm for 5pm

Thursday 8th April - no choir practice
Sunday 11th April - no choir

Thursday 15th April - choir practices resume
Sunday 18th April - sung services resume: morning = men and boys, evening = men

Many thanks again,
Emma

Current Choir Diary to Easter 2010

2010-02-03T13:39:00.001Z

The Choir Diary up to Easter is now available online by clicking HERE

Scholarships

2010-02-03T13:35:00.004Z

As you may know, St George's Vestry approved a new scholarship scheme intended to enhance the musicality of the choir by inviting applications from young musicians in Northern Ireland.

We are delighted to announce that the successful applicants for 2009 - 2010 were:

Tor Alexander

Alan Burns

Marcus Frew

Matthew Jeffrey

and

Will Fox-Roberts

Congratulations to all!

Choir Trip to England, Summer 2009

2009-06-10T14:38:00.002+01:00

Provisional Itinerary

Wednesday 19th August

· Belfast International, depart 2.50pm (Easyjet flight 166).
Please make your own way to airport.
· Arrive London Luton 4pm
· Coach to All Saints Pastoral Centre (SPEC), London Colney. (see details below)
· Arrive c. 5pm
· Settling in time / unpacking
· Talk 6pm – rules and expectations
· Dinner at SPEC 6.30pm
· Organised games for choristers

Thursday 20th August

· Breakfast at SPEC 8.30am
· Depart from SPEC for St Albans in coach 10am
· Arrive St Albans 10.30am
· Free time in St Albans. Picnic lunch (provided)
· Rehearse in St Albans song school 2-3.30pm
· Rehearse in church 3.45pm
· Break for changing/robing 4.30pm – refreshments provided
· Evensong 5pm
· Depart St Albans 6pm, arrive SPEC 6.30pm
· Dinner at SPEC 6.30pm
· Organised games for choristers

Friday 21st August

· Breakfast at SPEC 8.30am
· Free time in morning at SPEC: activities to be organized (tbc) – e.g. walks, mountain biking, football
· Lunch at SPEC 12.30pm
· Rehearsal in SPEC chapel 2.30-4pm
· 4pm break – refreshments provided
· Service in SPEC chapel 5pm, lead by Colin Young
· Dinner at SPEC 6.30pm
· Organised games for choristers

Saturday 22nd August – FREE DAY

· Breakfast at SPEC 8.30am
· Choristers trip to Legoland (and anyone else who wants to go)
· Gents can make own plans (you’re welcome to come to Legoland!)
· Dinner at SPEC 6.30pm for choristers and anyone else who wants it

Sunday 23rd August

· Bags to be packed before breakfast
· Breakfast at SPEC, 8am (choir uniform to be worn, there won’t be time to change later)
· Depart SPEC in coach for Windsor 8.45am
· Arrive Windsor 9.30am
· Rehearse in “dungeon” at Windsor Castle 9.30am
· Matins (men only) 10.45am. Choristers to be entertained in dungeon – bring books/computer games
· Eucharist (men and boys) 11.45am
· Lunch in restaurant (this will be paid for by the vestry for all singers)
· Afternoon rehearsal 3.30pm
· Break 4.45pm – refreshments provided
· Evensong 5.15pm
· Depart in coach for airport (London Luton) 6.30pm
· Dinner at airport (choristers paid for – gents please make own arrangements)
· Depart 9.30pm (Easyjet flight 173). Arrive 10.45pm

NOTES:
1. All meals / snacks / legoland entry are paid for for the choristers: other than pocket money the boys do not need to bring any money with them.
2. Robes and music will be transported for us by one of the chorister’s parents who is taking a car over.
3. Gents: you can opt out of any meals at SPEC if you want (e.g. on Saturday if you spend the day on London you might want to opt out of evening meal). But I will need to know your plans in advance.
4. Gents: London Colney is a short taxi drive from St Albans (which has the highest density of pubs in England) for evening entertainment possibilities…
5. Gents: there is a good train service from St Albans into London.

ACCOMMODATION – ALL SAINTS PASTORAL CENTRE

All Saints Pastoral centre, Tel: 01727 828888
Shenley Lane, Website: www.spec.org.uk
London Colney,
St Albans,
Hertfordshire, AL2 1AG

SPEC began in 1993. The name developed from the Latin 'Speculum Vitae' which translates to 'Mirror to Life'. SPEC is also an acronym for Spiritual, Personal/Peer, Educational, Community. It is a residential centre that works with young people, either in organized programmes run by the centre or by providing accommodation for groups with self-led programmes.

The accommodation
The accommodation is mainly in bunk beds in shared rooms. Bedding is provided.
Guests need to bring their own towels and toiletries.

Rooms available are as follows:
Sleeping 8 people: 1 room
Sleeping 6 people: 1 room
Sleeping 4 people: 4 rooms
Sleeping 3 people: 1 room
Sleeping 2 people: 8 rooms
Sleeping 1 person: 1 room

Insurance

SPEC has public liability insurance for events and activities run by their teams on site, e.g. archery / assault course etc. Please arrange your own travel insurance.

Meals
Three meals are provided daily (although we won’t necessarily be in for all three).

Breakfast 8.30am Cereal, toast
Lunch 12.30pm Baked potatoes, pizza, salad, baguettes
Fruit, yoghurt
Dinner 6.30pm Hot meal, usually choice of main courses, incl. vegetarian option

Tea, coffee, squash and biscuits are available at break times
There are vending machines on site.

Other Facilities
Basketball
Assault course
Archery range
Football pitch
40 acres of land including Woodland – mountain bikes available for hire
Games room

People coming on choir tour 2009

Boys Probationers
Joshua Booth Jonah Davey (own travel arrangements)
Rowan Brown Jude Herdman
Ewan Docherty Saul Herdman
Michael Forrester Jake Lowry (own travel arrangements)
Michael Hong Oliver Rhodes
Michael Shorten
Jacob Somerville

Parents
Stephanie Alexander
Claire Booth (“official” adult with chorister supervision responsibilities)
Jacqueline Brown
Jill Docherty (“official” adult)
Ruth Forrester (Robes mistress)
William Forrester
Jun Hong
Weiru Hong
Adrienne Shorten
Caroline Somerville

Back row under-18s
Tor Alexander (bass)
Alan Burns (tenor)
Matthew Jeffrey (tenor)
Callum Maxwell (tenor)

Men
David McElderry (alto)
Geoff Higgins (tenor)
Brian Hunter (bass)
Steven Irwin (bass)
Mark McGuire (tenor)
Ed McMullan (alto)
Jonny Roberts (bass)

Staff Other
Richard Campbell Geraldine Black
Emma Gibbins Agnes Cairns
Colin Young Raymond Cairns

Letter to choir from Emma Gibbins

2009-06-09T15:46:00.000+01:00

Dear Choir,

Firstly, very many thanks to you all for your support of the various fund raising events for choir tour. I have been delighted by the response and by people’s generosity. So thank you once again for your help and support.

In preparation for tour, it would be good to have a few pre-tour rehearsals, as follows:

Thursday 13th August All boys 4-5.30pm

Friday 14th August All boys 4-5.30pm

Monday 17th August All boys 6.30-8.15pm
Men 7.30-9pm

If there are any major problems with these suggested rehearsals, please let me know as soon as possible. Thanks.

Finally, I am planning an end of term party after the final Evensong of term, on the 28th June, and I hope you will all be able to stay for that. Parents/family welcome!

Many thanks and I hope you’re looking forward to the trip as much as I am,

Emma

Ship of Fools

2009-01-29T09:44:00.004Z

Some of the choir may be interested to see that St George's was featured and reviewed on international website "Ship of Fools".

As unlikely as it may seem, they have a "Mystery Worshipper" section which despatches covert worshippers to churches all over the world to assess "questions which go to the heart of church life: How long was the sermon? How hard the pew? How cold was the coffee? How warm the welcome?"

The only clue they have been there at all is the Mystery Worshipper calling card, dropped discreetly into the collection plate.

See how St George's Belfast fared by clicking THIS LINK

Choristers' concert

2009-01-24T16:11:00.008Z

The choristers will be performing a fund raising concert on Friday 13th March at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall.

Proceeds will go to the choir tour fund. The choir will be visiting England in the summer and singing at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle and St Alban's Abbey. Do come and support the concert if you can!

Emma Gibbins

St George's Chapel, Windsor

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February 2009 Music list

2009-01-24T01:07:00.001Z

Sunday 1st February Candlemas
11 am Sung Eucharist Parish Choir Men

Hymn: Hail to the Lord who comes 157
Setting: Byrd III
Psalm: 24: 7-10
Hymn: Faithful vigil ended 44 (tune 282)
Hymn: The God of Abraham praise 148 (omit v. 2 & 3)
Motet: Senex puerum portabat - Byrd
Hymn: At the name of Jesus 338
Organ voluntary: Mit Fried und Freud ich fahr dahin, BWV 616
- Bach

5 pm Choral Evensong Parish Choir

Introit: Hail gladdening light - Stainer
Hymn: Of the Father’s heart begotten 33 (omit v. 2 & 3)
Responses: Clucas
Psalm: 122
Canticles: Stanford in B flat
Anthem: When to the temple Mary went - Eccard
Hymn: Sing how the age-long promise of a Saviour 156
(tune 288)
Hymn: Christ whose glory fills the skies 234
Organ voluntary:

Sunday 8th February 3rd before Lent

11 am Sung Eucharist Parish Choir

Hymn: O for a thousand tongues to sing 415
Setting: Harris in F
Psalm: 147: 1-12
Hymn: Immortal love for ever full 378
Hymn: Thine arm, O Lord, in days of old 324 (tune 376)
Motet: Jesu joy of man’s desiring - Bach
Hymn: We have a gospel to proclaim 486
Organ voluntary:

5 pm Choral Evensong Chamber Choir

Hymn: Come ye faithful raise the anthem 351
Responses: Smith
Psalm: 4
Canticles: Noble in B minor
Anthem: Cantique de Jean Racine - Fauré
Hymn: Forth in the peace of Christ we go 361
Organ voluntary: Ciacona - Muffat

Sunday 15th February 2nd before Lent
11 am Sung Eucharist Sine nomine

Hymn: All creatures of our God and King 263 (omit v. 5 &6)
Setting: Missa l’Hora passa - Viadana
Psalm: 104: 26-37
Hymn: Father of heaven whose love profound 358 (tune ii)
Hymn: Praise to the holiest in the height 439
Motet: O sacrum convivium - Croce
Hymn: Christ is the world’s true light 494
Organ voluntary: 2 verses - Anon (17th century)

5 pm Choral Evensong Men’s Voices

Hymn: Lord of beauty, thine the splendour 265
Responses: Plainsong
Psalm: 65
Canticles: Plainsong
Anthem: Evening Hymn - Purcell
Hymn: Saviour again to thy dear name we raise 250
Organ voluntary: 2 pieces for Musical Clock - Haydn

Sunday 22nd February Sunday before Lent
11 am Sung Eucharist Parish Choir

Hymn: Eternal ruler of the ceaseless round 355
Setting: Stanford in C/F
Psalm: 50: 1-6
Hymn: ‘Tis good Lord to be here 178
Hymn: God of mercy, God of grace 366
Motet: The Lord bless you and keep you - Rutter
Hymn: From glory to glory advancing 286

Easter Term 2009 Music Diary

2009-01-06T17:56:00.005Z

Thursday practice times
Probationers 5.30-7pm
Junior trebles 6.30-8.15pm
Senior trebles 7-8.15pm
Men 7.30-9pm

Tuesday 6th Jan Sung Eucharist for Epiphany, 8pm: Men
Rehearsal: 7pm

Thurs 8th Jan Normal practices resume. Followed by choir gents ‘Christmas’ dinner.

Fri 9th Jan Normal practice for boys, followed by Bowling

Sunday 11th Jan Eucharist: Men and boys
Epiphany Carol Service, 5pm: Chamber choir
Rehearsal 3.30pm

Sunday 18th Jan Men and boys

Sunday 25th Jan Eucharist: Men and boys
Evensong: Men

Sunday 1st Feb Eucharist: Men
Evensong: Men and boys

Saturday 7th Feb Wedding, 12.30pm: Men and boys Rehearsal 11.30am

Sunday 8th Feb Eucharist: Men and boys
Evensong: Chamber choir

Thur 12th Feb No practice – half term

Fri 13th Feb No practice – half term

Sun 15th Feb Choir Holiday

Sun 22nd Feb Eucharist: Men and boys
Evensong: Men

Wed 25th Feb Ash Wednesday. Sung Eucharist, 8pm: Chamber choir
Rehearsal 6.45pm

Sun 1st March Eucharist: Men and boys
Evensong: Boys

Sun 8th March Eucharist: Men and boys
Evensong: Chamber choir

Fri 13th March Fund raising concert - to be given by the boys
Sun 15th March Men and boys

Sun 22nd March (Mothering Sunday)
Eucharist: Men and boys
Evensong: Men

Sun 29th March (Passion Sunday)
Eucharist: Men
Service of readings and Music for Passiontide, 5pm: Chamber choir
Rehearsal 3.30pm

Boys to sing at Re-opening service at St Malachy’s, 3pm. Details to follow.

Sun 5th April (Palm Sunday)
Men and boys

Thursday 9th April (Maundy Thursday) Sung Eucharist 8pm, rehearsal 7pm
Men and boys

Friday 10th April (Good Friday)
12 noon - 1pm Boys Rehearsal 11am
1pm - 3pm Men

Saturday 11th April (Easter Eve) Sung Eucharist 8pm, rehearsal 7pm: Men

Sunday 12th April (Easter Day)
Eucharist: Men and boys
Evensong: Chamber choir

Thur 16th/Fri 17th No practices

Sun 19th April Choir Holiday

NEXT TERM:

Thur 23rd April Rehearsals resume AND St George’s Day EVENING SERVICE
– parish choir + chamber choir
Fri 24th April Boys’ rehearsals resume
Sun 26th April Sung services resume

ADVANCE NOTICE: Chamber choir Concert Saturday 23rd May
Rehearsal on the Saturday afternoon + extra rehearsal some time in the fortnight preceding concert
Fund raiser for St Malachy’s Church / St George’s choir funds

ADVANCE NOTICE: PARISH CHOIR SUMMER CHOIR TOUR
Wednesday 19th August – Sunday 23rd August Please keep these dates free!

Plans so far: Thursday 20th August: Evensong at St Albans Abbey
Sunday 23rd August: Services at St George’s Chapel, Winsor Castle

December 2008 Music List

2008-12-01T10:13:00.001Z

Sunday 7th December Advent 2
11 am Sung Eucharist Parish Choir

Hymn: Hark! A herald voice is calling 5
Setting: Darke in A minor
Psalm: 85. 1-2, 8-13
Hymn: Lift up your heads ye mighty gates 8 (t. 128ii)
Hymn: The Lord will come and not be slow 15
Motet: Remember O thou man - Ravenscroft
Hymn: Judge eternal, throned in splendour 490
Organ voluntary: Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme, BWV 645 - Bach

5 pm Choral Evensong Parish Choir

Hymn: Ye servants of the Lord 18
Responses: Plainsong
Psalm: 40. 12-19
Canticles: Plainsong
Anthem: Lo how a rose e’er blooming - Praetorius
Hymn: Jesu, Lover of my soul 383
Organ voluntary: Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 660 - Bach

Sunday 14th December Advent 3
11 am Sung Eucharist Parish Choir Men

Organ music: Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 659 - Bach
Hymn: On Jordan’s bank the Baptist’s cry 12
Setting: Plainsong
Psalm: 126
Hymn: The race that long in darkness pined 57
Hymn: Hills of the North rejoice 7
Motet: Alma redemptor Mater - Palestrina
Hymn: Hark the glad sound! The Saviour comes 6
Organ voluntary: Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme - Peeters

5 pm Choral Evensong Chamber Choir

Hymn: Creator of the stars of night 1
Responses: Plainsong
Psalm: 68. 1-8
Canticles: Fauxbourdon Setting - Andreas
Anthem: E’en so Lord Jesus - Manz
Hymn: Lo he comes with clouds descending 9
Organ voluntary: Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 661 - Bach

Sunday 21st December Advent 4
11 am Sung Eucharist Parish Choir

Hymn: Sing we of the blessed Mother 185
Setting: Sumsion in F
Psalm: 89. 1-4, 19-26
Hymn: For Mary, Mother of our God 161 (t. 385)
Hymn: Long ago, prophets knew 10
Motet: There is no rose - Wright
Hymn: Thy Kingdom come O God 499
Organ voluntary: Magnificat II toni - Weckmann

5 pm Nine Lessons and Carols Parish Choir & Chamber Choir

Choir: Remember O thou man - Ravenscroft
The truth from above - Vaughan Williams
Lord when you came to earth - arr. Rose
Sans day carol - Rutter
The lambkin - Smyth
I saw three ships - arr. Boynton
Carols: Once in Royal David’s City 34
Unto us a child is born
O little town of Bethlehem 32
While shepherds watched their flocks 42
O come all ye faithful 30 (omit v. 7)
Hark the Herald Angels sing 26 (omit v. 4)
Organ voluntary: Dieu parmi nous (La Nativité) - Messiaen

Wednesday 24th December Christmas Eve
11 pm Midnight Mass Parish Choir

Hymn: It came upon the midnight clear 29
Setting: Missa brevis in F - Mozart
Psalm: 96
Hymn: O little town of Bethlehem 32 (omit v. 4)
Hymn: In the bleak midwinter 28
Motets: I saw three ships - Boynton
Hymn: O come all ye faithful 30 (omit v. 3, 4)
Organ voluntary: Final from Symphony no. 1 - Vierne

Thursday 25th December Christmas Day
11 am Sung Eucharist Parish Choir

Hymn: O come all ye faithful 30 (omit v. 3, 4)
Setting: Darke in F
Psalm: 98
Hymn: Unto us a boy is born! 39
Hymn: Once in Royal David’s city 34
Motet: The Lambkin - Smyth
Hymn: Hark! The herald angels sing 26
Organ voluntary: In dulci jubilo, BWV 729 - Bach

Sunday 28th December First Sunday of Christmas
11 am Sung Eucharist

Organ music: In dulci jubilo, BuxWV 197 - Buxtehude
Hymn: O little town of Bethlehem 32 (omit v. 4)
Setting: Merbecke
Psalm: 148
Hymn: While shepherds watched their flocks by night 42
Hymn: God rest ye merry gentlemen 25
Hymn: The first Nowell 36
Organ voluntary: Noël Suisse - Daquin

Christmas Term 2008 Music Diary

2008-11-28T15:50:00.002Z

St George’s Parish Church
Christmas Term 2008 Music Diary

REVISED VERSION (changes underlined)

Sunday 30th Nov (Advent Sunday) Eucharist: Men and boys
Advent Carol service, 5pm: Men, boys and Chamber choir
Rehearsal: 3.30pm for everyone (NOTE: earlier start)

Sunday 7th Dec Men and boys

Wednesday 10th Dec Boys to sing Evening Christmas Concert at Ards Art Centre, 8pm
Details to follow

Sunday14th Dec Eucharist: Men
Evensong: Chamber choir (Note: no services for boys today)
Post Evensong: CAROL SINGING IN VICTORIA SQUARE
For anyone who wants to come!
Drinks and mince pies in Church Hall afterwards!
MEET AT CHURCH AT 6.15pm

Sunday 21st Dec Eucharist: Men and boys
9 Lessons and Carols, 5pm: Men, boys and Chamber choir
Rehearsal: 3.30pm for everyone (NOTE: earlier start)

Sunday 24th Dec Midnight Mass, 11pm: Men, boys and Chamber choir
Rehearsal: 9.30pm for everyone

Sunday 25th Dec Eucharist: Men and boys No Choral Evensong

Sunday 28th Dec Choir Holiday
IS ANYONE AROUND THIS SUNDAY TO SING IN THE MORNING?
PLEASE LET ME KNOW!

DATES FOR THE NEW YEAR:

Thurs 1st/Fri 2nd Jan No practices

Sunday 4th Jan Choir Holiday

Tuesday 6th Jan Sung Eucharist for Epiphany, 8pm: Men
Rehearsal: 7pm (Please let me know asap if you can do this!)

Thurs 8th Jan Normal practices resume
Followed by choir gents ‘Christmas dinner’, 8.15pm

Fri 9th Jan Normal practice for boys
Followed by Pantomime trip - details to follow.

Sunday 11th Jan Eucharist: Men and boys
Epiphany Carol Service, 5pm: Chamber choir
Rehearsal 3.30pm

ADVANCE NOTICE: SUMMER CHOIR TOUR

Wednesday 19th August – Sunday 23rd August Please keep these dates free!

Plans so far: Evensong at St Albans Abbey,
Sunday services at St George’s Chapel, Winsor Castle

From Dr Emma Gibbins

2008-11-28T15:42:00.002Z

Hi Everyone,

Please find attached a revised date list for the rest of this year / start of next year.

Please note a number of changes at the start of next year:
- choir no longer required on Sunday 4th January

- Men's voices Eucharist for Epiphany Tuesday 6th January, 8pm - could you let me know whether you can do this please?

- Xmas dinner after practice on Thursday 8th January

Very many thanks in advance for all your hard work over the Christmas period. It's a busy time of year, but I hope you'll enjoy the Christmas services!
See you on Sunday,

Emma

Music List for April 2008

2008-04-03T10:07:00.001+01:00

For April 2008 music list please click HERE

March 08 Music list

2008-03-05T10:42:00.002Z

Click here to download the March 08 Music list

St George's Choir Gentlemen's night out at Nick's Warehouse

2008-01-18T08:14:00.000Z

Rehearsal Schedule, Feb and March 08

2008-01-17T09:35:00.000Z

Please click HERE for the rehearsal schedule, Feb / March 2008

Music list for January 2008

2008-01-02T22:13:00.000Z

Please click HERE to download / view the Jan 2008 Music list

St George's on BBC Radio Ulster

2007-12-25T12:53:00.000Z

Perhaps you missed the St George's Parish Choir article which was transmitted on BBC Radio Ulster on Christmas Eve?

It comes across very well and includes interviews with some of our choristers and chorister parents together with the full choir performing "Silent Night"- it is well worth a listen and one for the archives!

Just click HERE to listen or download this article.

December to Jan schedule

2007-12-21T16:20:00.001Z

St. Georges’ Parish Choir Schedule
December ‘07/January ‘08

Thursday 20th – rehearsal 7pm-8.15pm (probationers 6.30-8.15pm)
Friday 21st – rehearsal 4.15-5.45pm

Sunday 23rd - Rehearsal & Eucharist 10am –12.30 (approx.)
BBC recording 12.30-12.45 (interviews 12.45-1pm)
Carol service – 5-6pm – rehearsal at 3.30pm (note early start)

Christmas Eve – Eucharist at 11pm – 12.30pm approx.)
(probationers not required at this service due to the late time)
REHEARSAL AT 9.30PM

Christmas Day - Rehearsal & Eucharist 10.30am –12.30 (approx.)
NOTE LATE STARTING TIME

NB. There are no rehearsals on Thursday or Friday 27&28 Dec. or Thursday or Friday 3&4 Jan.

Sunday 6th January - Rehearsal & Eucharist 10am –12.30 (approx.)
NO EVENSONG FOR BOYS

Thursday 10th – rehearsal 7pm-8.15pm (probationers 6.30-8.15pm)
Friday 11th – rehearsal 4.15-5.45pm.
NB. MEAL & EVENT FOR BOYS IMMEDIATELY AFTER THIS REHEARSAL.

Sunday 13th January - Rehearsal & Eucharist 10am –12.30 (approx.)
NO EVENSONG FOR BOYS

Thursday 17th – rehearsal 7pm-8.15pm (probationers 6.30-8.15pm)
Friday 18th – rehearsal 4.15-5.45pm

Sunday 20th January - Rehearsal & Eucharist 10am –12.30 (approx.)
Rehearsal & Choral Evensong – 4pm – 5.45pm (approx.)

Thursday 24th – rehearsal 7pm-8.15pm (probationers 6.30-8.15pm)
Friday 25h – rehearsal 4.15-5.45pm

Sunday 27h January - Rehearsal & Eucharist 10am –12.30 (approx.)
Rehearsal & Choral Evensong – 4pm – 5.45pm (approx.)

Thursday 31st – rehearsal 7pm-8.15pm (probationers 6.30-8.15pm)
Friday 1st February – rehearsal 4.15-5.45pm

Letter from Richard Campbell

2007-12-21T16:19:00.001Z

20th December 2007

Dear Parent

Many thanks for your support during my first hectic couple of weeks as Acting Director of Music at St. George’s. I have found working with the choristers to be very rewarding and I feel they are achieving a good musical standard. Your support in getting them to church on time, every time, has helped enormously. Many thanks!

As you are aware, we had a parents meeting on Tuesday 11th December. My thanks to those who were able to make it and apologies, to those who couldn’t, for the short notice at what is a very busy time. The meeting was important, as there were several bits of housekeeping that had to be attended to. I enclose brief minutes of this meeting for your information. I also enclose a copy of the rehearsal supervision rota – thanks to Caroline Mitchell for organising this. I’m sure I don’t need to stress the importance of this rota and your attendance on the day you have been assigned to, as part of St. Georges’ commitment to the Safeguarding Trust guidelines. If you are unavailable for your allotted day, please organise a swap with someone.

I have today been asked by BBC Good Morning Ulster if the choir would be interested in featuring on the show on Christmas Eve. This will be recorded this Sunday (23rd) immediately after the Eucharist. We need to record 1 piece, which will only take 10 minutes. I hope that this does not cause any inconvenience as I appreciate Sunday will be the first of three busy days. I however think it is very exciting for the boys to be asked to take part in raising the profile of the choir in this way. I have selected five senior boys, at the BBC’s request, to be interviewed after the recording and I have already spoken to the parents involved to seek permission for this. The recording will be finished no later than 12.45 and the interviews no later than 1pm.

Please find attached a reminder of the remaining December schedule and also that for January 2008.

May I take this opportunity to wish you and your family a very happy Christmas and New Year.

Yours sincerely,

Richard Campbell
Acting Director of Music
Mobile – 079 2083 2333
Home – 9070 2001
richardcampbell97@hotmail.com

December 2007 Music List

2007-12-09T23:25:00.000Z

This month's music list can be seen by clicking the link below. This is a Microsoft Word document and you should select "open" when prompted :

Dec 07 Music List

Letter sent to chorister parents 2nd December 2007

2007-12-04T00:41:00.000Z

Advent Sunday 2007

Dear Parent

As you are aware I am looking after the choir following the departure of David Revels. There have had to be some changes to the schedule and I hope that these do not cause too much upheaval to you or your son. The revised schedule is below. I will endeavour to keep any changes to scheduling or any other matter to a minimum and make the transition period as smooth as possible. I have also included a revised music list for your information.

I am very conscious that you may have concerns about the future or how things may change at St. George's. I would therefore propose a meeting for all parents with myself next Tuesday 11th December at the church at 8pm so that I can outline my plans for the next few months and the period beyond, when a new Director of Music will be appointed.

Your son’s musical education at St. Georges is top of my agenda and I hope that I can rely on your support in this. If you have any concerns that you wish to discuss with me before the meeting next week or if you can’t make it please contact me.

Yours sincerely,

Richard Campbell

Acting Director of Music

Mobile – 07920 832333

Home – 90 702001

Revised Schedule December 2007

Thursday 6th December – rehearsal 7pm-8.15pm (probationers 6.30-8.15pm)

Friday 7th December – rehearsal 4.15-5.45pm

Sunday 9th – Rehearsal & Eucharist 10am –12.30 (approx.)

NO EVENSONG FOR BOYS

Thursday 13th – rehearsal 7pm-8.15pm (probationers 6.30-8.15pm)

Friday 14th – rehearsal 4.15-5.45pm

Sunday 16th - Rehearsal & Eucharist 10am –12.30 (approx.)

NO EVENSONG FOR BOYS

Thursday 20th – rehearsal 7pm-8.15pm (probationers 6.30-8.15pm)

Friday 21st – rehearsal 4.15-5.45pm

Sunday 23rd - Rehearsal & Eucharist 10am –12.30 (approx.)

Carol service – 5-6pm – rehearsal at 3.30pm (note early start)

Christmas Eve – Eucharist at 11pm – 12.30pm approx.)

(probationers not required at this service due to the late time)

REHEARSAL AT 9.30PM

Christmas Day - Rehearsal & Eucharist 10.30am –12.30 (approx.)

NOTE LATE STARTING TIME

Some Changes

2007-02-18T19:44:00.000Z

There have been some changes to the music list for the next few months and the new music list is below.

Please amend your records.

Many thanks,
David Revels

A note from David Revels

2007-02-03T18:57:00.000Z

Dear Musicians and Parents,

Welcome to a New Year which I hope will be a peaceful and happy one for you all.

I should like to take this opportunity to thank you all for you hard work and dedication over the Christmas period and I look forward to working with you in due course. Also, I wish to thank and acknowledge the contribution made by our youngest recruits, who made a huge impression during our Christmas Carol Service (some of whom are only six years old).

Our new Probationers are:
Joshua Booth
Jacob Somerville
Charlie West
Scott Joiner
Rory Gracie
Ewan Docherty
Owen Gilbody
Michael Hong
William Linley
Robert Kim
Stephen Lynas
Michael Shorten
Ben Corry

These boys are drawn from different schools in the Belfast area and one or two from further afield. In addition to working on musical matters the boys play football before and after Thursday night rehearsals, which last from 5.00pm – 6.15pm, and there is a schedule of fun activities planned throughout the year.

If your son would like to audition to be a member of St George’s Parish Choir then contact me on 028 90310667 or email me by CLICKING HERE .

At this time I also welcome our four newest choristers:

Michael Forrester
Matthew Hirst
Adrian McCullough
David Mitchell

Having spent a period as probationers they have graduated into the Parish Choir and are making a huge contribution in their new capacity – well done!

I am delighted to announce the new medal holders at St George’s Parish Choir. Medals are given as an acknowledgement of outstanding ability, commitment and endeavour:

Head Chorister : Matthew Jeffrey

Deputy Head Choristers : Tor Alexander & Edmund Bell

Leighton Scholars :
Callum Maxwell,
Matthew Thompson,
Alan Burns &
Archie Frew

Cairns Medal : Rowan Brown

Congratulations to Rowan Brown on passing his transfer test with flying colours!

From the schedule you will see that we have been asked to support St Peter’s Cathedral in their quest to rejuvenate music in their liturgy. There will be a guest choir singing Mass in St Peter’s one Saturday in each month throughout 2007, and we have been invited to sing on Saturday 10th February at Evening Mass. Please inform me immediately if there is a problem with this date as details have already been submitted in promotional material.

It is my understanding that half term occurs from 16th – 20th February inclusive and so I have tried to schedule the boys’ commitments around this period. As you will see from the schedule and music list, the boys will not be required to sing during this period but will have greater responsibility on 25th February, whereupon they will be joined by the probationers, not least for moral support!

Thank you once again on your continued support and congratulations on all your hard work.

David Revels

Music List 2007 Jan - April

2007-02-03T18:51:00.000Z

You may have to click on this schedule once to make it more readable!

Edward McMullan

2007-02-03T12:21:00.000Z

It may interest you all to learn that Edward McMullan has been awarded a place in York Minster Choir next academic year (Sept 2007)

Congratulations Ed and keep the flag flying for St George's !!!

About St George's Parish Choir

2006-12-01T10:17:00.001Z

Music at the Parish Church of St George

The Parish Choir of Men and Boys makes a valuable contribution to the life and worship at Saint George’s. The choir sings at two services every Sunday during term time: the sung Eucharist at 11.00am and Choral Evensong at 5.00pm, in addition to other special occasions in the church year, such as Christmas and Easter. The choir also sings further afield at church services and concerts.

Many of the boy choristers go on to sing in the men’s section of the choir when their voices break, continuing until they leave the area to go to college or university and a number have been awarded choral scholarships.

There is also a mixed adult Chamber Choir, which sings Choral Evensong once a month.

The Director of Music welcomes enquiries from anyone interested in joining the choirs.

For further details about the choirs and music at Saint George’s, please e-mail the Director of Music via the Church Office

Parish Church of Saint George
105 High Street,
Belfast,
BT1 2AG

Music list for Sept 2006

2006-08-30T07:57:00.000+01:00

(Click the list to make it bigger!)

Oxford 2006

2006-08-02T10:23:00.000+01:00

From David Revels :

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the choir and organist for a most memorable, musical experience on tour in Oxford. Having spent six and a half years of my life in Christ Church both as an Academical Clerk and Lay Clerk, I was very proud to return to Oxford, albeit in a different role as Director of Music, knowing that I have in St George’s a team of very talented and dedicated organists and singers. I am delighted to report that there have been many favourable comments made about our music-making over the weekend and I look forward to continuing and improving upon this high standard.

It is with heavy hearts that we say farewell to Edward McMullen. Edward has spent eight years of his life in St George’s both as chorister and gentleman of the choir; latterly having been awarded the organ scholarship. His musicianship, enthusiasm, commitment and service is a shining example to all in the choir and for those who wish to join. It has been a great privilege working with Edward; as his Musical Director and vocal tutor I am delighted with his recent appointment to the position of choral scholar at Truro Cathedral, where he will spend his ‘year out’ before going to university to read Music. Edward follows in the footsteps of a long and impressive line of musicians at St George's, many of whom have gone on to be organ and choral scholars in Cathedral and Collegiate institutions the length and breadth of the United Kingdom.

Our loss will most definitely be Truro Cathedral’s gain.

We welcome some new probationers into the choir: David Mitchell, Michael Forrester, Adrian McCullough and Matthew Hirst. I am thrilled that they have accepted to participate in the experience at St George’s and look forward to the challenge of performing Church music to the very highest standards.

Mark McGuire has started an online album which you can all see by clicking the picture above. If anyone has any photos that they would like to add to the album feel free to e-mail them to Mark on the link below or perhaps arrange a disk to be sent if more convenient. We will then share them with everyone else.

Perhaps someone who is good at creative writing would like to provide an account of the trip? If so again please e-mail Mark your account and Hhe will post it up.

David Revels

To e-mail the St George's website, click here

Some info from David Revels regarding Oxford

2006-07-25T12:50:00.000+01:00

24th July 2006
Dear Gents,

I expect you are getting very excited about the trip to Oxford.

As you will no doubt recall (from a correspondence just before Christmas) there is a rehearsal this Wednesday evening at 7pm - the boys will be rehearsing from much earlier in the day - in preparation for the trip. I have scheduled the rehearsal to last until 8.30pm but am certain that we will be able to finish a little earlier.

The flight departs from Belfast City Airport at 1235 on Friday 28th July getting into Birmingham at 1340. We need to check in 90 mins prior to departure as it is a block booking! This is obviously very important.

The return flight leaves Birmingham 1st August at 2005 arriving at 2110. A coach has been hired to transport us door to door on both occasions.

There is a slightly amended itinerary as follows:

Saturday
1030 – 1200 Warm up and rehearsal
1200 Walk to Christ Church Meadow
1230 – 1330 Lunch (Christ Church Meadow)
1400 – 1600 Rehearsal in Christ Church Cathedral
1600 – 1800 Free time
1800 Evensong at Christ Church Cathedral (by another visiting choir)
1930 Dinner
2130 Bed for trebles

Sunday
0700 Breakfast
0900 Rehearsal (tbc)
1000 Matins
1115 Eucharist
1330 Lunch at St Stephen’s House
1430 – 1600 Free time (resting time)
1645 Rehearsal at Christ Church Cathedral
1800 Evensong
1930 Dinner for Boys
2030 – 2200 Free time
2200 Bed for choristers

Monday
0800 – 0900 Breakfast
0900 – 1300 Group activity
1300 – 1400 Lunch
1400 – 1645 Free time
1645 Rehearsal
1800 Evensong
1930 – 2030 Dinner
2030 – 2230 Free time (and then bed)

The music list is well-known to us and features:

Matins
Responses - Clucas
Venite and Te Deum sung to chant
Jubilate - Britten

Eucharist
Setting of Mass - Darke in F
Ave verum - Byrd

Evensong
Clucas
Stanford in C
Give us the wings of Faith - Bullock

Accommodation has been arranged for those who requested it:

Richard Campbell
Alan Campbell
Edward McMullen
David McElderry
Mark McGuire
Steven Irwin

I hope that this clear. Should you have any queries please contact me on 07713085908.

Many thanks and looking forward to seeing you all on wednesday evening!

Yours ever

David R

Music List for next few months, 2006

2006-05-05T09:17:00.000+01:00

30th April 2006
Parish Choir
Byrd IV Part Mass
If ye love me - Tallis

PM Service
Parish Choir
Stanford in C
Ave verum - Elgar
Responses Byrd

7th May
Parish choir
Sumsion in F
Never weather beaten sail - Campian

PM Service
Parish choir
Purcell in G minor
Thou knowest Lord the secrets of our hearts - Purcell
Responses Morley

14th May
Parish choir
Darke in A minor
Panis Angelicus - Franck

PM Service
Parish choir
Battle of the Atlantic Service - Chamber Choir

21st May
Parish choir
Stanford in C
Salve Regina - Poulenc

PM Service
Parish choir
Sumsion in G
Let my complaint - Morley
Responses Tallis

25th May Ascension Day
Darke in F
Ascendit Deus - Phillips

PM Service
Evening Eucharist

28th May
Parish choir
Darke in F
Ascendit Deus - Phillips

PM Service
Boys Only
Dyson in C minor
He delivereth the poor - Parry
Responses Plainsong

4th June
Parish Men
Byrd III Part Mass
Ave verum - Byrd

PM Service
Parish Choir
Walmisley in D minor
Jubilate in C - Britten
Responses Clucas

11th June
Parish choir
Sumsion in F
Amighty and everlasting God - Gibbons

PM Service
Parish choir
Brewer in D
Light of the World - Elgar
Responses Smith

18th June
Parish choir
Howells Coll Reg
Ave Verum - Mozart

PM Service
Parish choir
Wood in E
He that hath my complaints - Mundy
Responses - Cleobury

25th June
Parish choir
Missa Brevis - Palestrina
No motet

PM Service
Parish choir
Howells Coll Reg
Like as the hart desireth the water brook - Howells
Te Deum in Bb - Stanford
Responses Rose

St George's Singers

2006-04-07T12:45:00.000+01:00

Our colleagues the St George's Singers have a concert coming up on Sat 8th April which I know some of you will be interested in :

Mass in B Minor by JS Bach
in
The Ulster Hall
Sat. 8th April at 7.45 pm

Easter Services 2006 - An update

2006-04-02T18:42:00.000+01:00

Hi all - Just a quick update for you all as per the letter I sent out to all men and parents.

Easter Services 2006

Everything is as you are already aware about except for these minor changes:

Palm Sunday – (9th April) - the rehearsal is as usual but the service starts at 10:50 am with a procession singing ‘All Glory Laud and Honour’ and features the congregation joining the procession.

Maunday Thursday (13th April) 7pm full rehearsal and 8pm service (full choir)

Good Friday – ( 14th April) 3 hour vigil
As in previous years the boys will be in attendance for the first 1.5 hours (1200 – 1330) and the men from 1330 – 1500.

Easter Eve (Sat 15th April) is full choir as usual. There will be a confirmation in this service, 4 hymns and a sung exsultet. Rehearsal will be at 7pm as detailed on web to allow for additional work for Easter Day services.

Easter Day as usual Full Eucharist and Full Evensong

No rehearsals during Easter Week (17th – 23rd April)

23rd April Eucharist sung by a visiting choir not Parish Choir
No evensong

Rehearsals resume on Thursday 27th April full at normal times

Friday 28th April rehearsal for boys as usual 4.15pm – 5.45pm

14th May is the Maritime Service 3pm - Chamber Choir

4th June Whitsunday
Visitors expected – jolly setting of canticles and 4 hymns

There will be changes to some rehearsals in June

Full choir rehearsal Wednesday 31st May (6.30pm – 8.15pm Boys & 7.30pm – 9.00pm Men) NO REHEARSAL THURSDAY 1st JUNE

Normal rehearsal Thursday 8th June

No Boys’ Rehearsal Friday 9th, 16th & 23rd June

Rehearsal for boys Monday 5th, 12 & 19th June 4.15pm – 5.45pm

Full Choir Rehearsal Tuesday 13th & 20th June 6.30pm – 8.15pm boys & 7.30pm – 9.00pm men

Christ Church Cathedral tour 2006 - update

2006-02-17T14:09:00.000Z

Dear All,

I am writing to seek confirmation and commitment for the Choir trip to Oxford:-

28th July – 1st August 2006.

The proposed route will be a flight to Birmingham and a coach ride to Oxford. We will be staying at St Stephen’s House which is a Theological college on the outskirts of Oxford (Marsden Road c.25 mins walk from the city centre).

Accommodation is in single and twin-bedded rooms all of which come with laundry and towels. Full board has been offered i.e. breakfast, lunch, dinner and bed for the duration of the stay with the option for packed lunches (and an appropriate reduction in price for this provision). Choir parents are encouraged to come along and I know that some parishioners are keen to be part of the outing; accommodation will be offered to choir parents within St Stephen’s House.

I urgently need names and deposits from all the choir members and parents who wish to come along.

If I am not already aware that you are going, please e-mail me by clicking HERE and let me know with deposit of £60 payable ASAP per person.

Also, here are a few new dates to be added to your diaries:

Friday 10th March 2006 at 12.00. Memorial Service for Charles Brett at St George’s
Friday 7th April 2006 – Presentation to Canon McDonald. Choir will be singing a few of his favourite choral pieces between lectures.

Saturday 27th May – McGuinness Wedding (time to be confirmed).

Many thanks

David Revels

A Note from David Revels

2006-01-03T21:13:00.000Z

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Congratulations on a superb Advent Carol Service, Christmas Concert in Downpatrick, BBC Radio and TV Broadcasts, Carol concert and Christmas Carol Service! I am immensely proud of everyone and there have been many favourable reports from those who have attended the services throughout the term and at our other engagements.

Thank you for all the support you have shown over the past few months. It has been a very busy period for the choir and I am grateful for your patience particularly when considering the late plans by the BBC.

I am delighted that by now all of you have navigated your way to this choir website http://www.stgeorgeschoir.blogspot.com/ ; it is here to act as a port of reference for all members of the choir and parents as letters can and do get mislaid. Please bookmark this site and visit regularly or better still, put your e-mail address in the red box to your right and send it. That way you will receive an e-mail every time this site changes or new information becomes available.

It is my intention that parents should receive a "hard" copy of the choir diary and then refer to the website for updates. Over the next few days the music list will appear here also.

January 2006

1st January 2006
Eucharist - Boys only
No Evensong

No midweek rehearsals for the choir

6th January
Feast of the Epiphany Men only
Rehearsal 7pm
Service 8pm

8th January
Eucharist - Men only No Boys This Sunday
Evensong- Chamber Choir

11th January
Meeting for Choir Parents 7pm All parents are invited and expected to attend

12th January Usual rehearsals resume

15th January
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evenosong Parish Men

22nd January
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Parish Boys No men

29th January
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Compline No boys for this service

February 2006

2nd February
Feast of Candlemas Parish Choir
Eucharist
Rehearsal 7pm
Service 8pm

5th February
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Parish Choir

12th February
Eucharist Morning off for the parish choir - Melisma singing this service
Evensong Chamber Choir

19th February
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Parish Men

24th February
Rehearsal as usual
Taken by Barry Rose

25th February
Workshop with Barry Rose
Organised through USOC

26th February
Eucharist Barry Rose Parish Boys No Men
Evensong Parish Boys No Men

March 2006

1st March
Ash Wednesday
Eucharist Parish Men No Boys

5th March
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Parish Choir

12th March
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Chamber Choir

19th March
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Parish Men

26th March
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Parish Boys

April 2006

2nd April
Eucharist Parish Men Men only
Evensong Parish Choir Full

9th April
Palm Sunday
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Chamber Choir

13th April
Maundy Thursday Parish Choir

14th April
Good Friday Parish (Choir split for 3 hour service)

15th April
Easter Eve
Eucharist
Rehearsal 7pm
Service 8pm

16th April
Easter Day
Eucharist Parish
Evensong Parish

No rehearsals this week

23rd April
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Parish Choir

30th April
Eucharist ?
Evensong ?

May 2006

7th May
Eucharist Parish
Evensong Parish

14th May
Eucharist Parish
Evensong Chamber Choir

21st May
Eucharist Parish
Evensong Parish Men

25th May
Ascension Day Parish Choir
Eucharist
Rehearsal 7pm
Service 8pm

28th May
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Parish Boys

June 2006

4th June
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Parish Choir

11th June
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evenosng Chamber Choir

18th June
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Parish Men

25th June
Eucharist Parish Choir
Evensong Parish & Chamber Choir

July 2006

26th July
3pm Rehearsal (Boys only)
5pm Food
6pm Football
7pm Full rehearsal (Boys leave at 8pm Gents continue until 8.30pm)

Choir trip to Oxford Friday 28th July - Tuesday 2nd August (inclusive)

Friday 28th
Depart St George's
Arrive Oxford for evening meal

Saturday 29th
2-4 rehearsal in Christ Church
6pm Attend Evensong
7.30pm Evening meal
9.30pm Bed

Sunday 30th July
10am Matins
11.15am Eucharist
1pm Lunch
5pm Rehearsal
6pm Service
7.30pm Dinner

Monday 31st July
Rehearsal for Evensong

Tuesday 1st August
Depart Oxford

Extra services and notices for Nov / Dec 2005

2005-10-30T21:26:00.000Z

Sat 3rd December
Concert in Downpatrick Arts Centre. Please spread the word! and see earlier post HERE - The Day will involve a coach trip to Downpatrick.

A 33 seater coach has been booked to transport the choir and those parents who have volunteered to manage the choristers (and gentlemen of the choir!). The coach will depart St George's at 2.15pm sharp. There will be a rehearsal from 4.00pm to 5.30pm followed by something to eat. There will then be a 'warm up' for all the singers at 7.00pm to focus on the concert which begins at 7.30pm. The coach will then depart Downpatrick at 10.00pm to return to St George's by 11.00pm. Please inform the Director of Music if any chorister wishes to travel home from the event with their respective parents so as to ensure that noone is left behind!

Friday 16th December
The choir has been asked to sing on Radio Ulster at the BBC Christmas party. The requirement for St George's is 15 mins of music and I have arranged for our contribution to feature in the first half of the concert so as to afford the boys an early night in the wake of their big fundraising concert the next day.

Sat 17th December

Xmas Concert in St George's. Rehearsal will begin at 5.45pm with the concert commencing at 7.30pm. Please spread the word about this concert. It will be the first which St George's has given in a long time and the proceeds will be going towards their Choir Trip to Oxford. I have secured the involvement of the actress Laura Hughes who will reading at this event. She is very much in demand and has been involved in the stage version of Adrian Mole which has received very favourable reviews. It is important that this event receives the full support of friends, family and parishioners and there will be something for everyone both musically and literally!

Sun 18th December
Christmas Carol Service 5pm Rehearsal 1530

Sat 24th December -
Christmas Eve Midnight Service - Rehearsal 2200 - Service 2300

Sun 25th December - Usual time (No evensong)

Music List Nov / Dec 2005

2005-10-30T19:39:00.000Z

2nd Nov All Souls Day (Chamber Choir Only)
Requiem Mass - Faure
8pm Service
Rehearsal @ 6.30 pm please

Sunday 6th Nov
AM (Parish Choir)
3rd before Advent
Darke in A minor
Panis Angelicus - Franck

PM - (Parish Choir)
Brewer in D
Ave verum - Elgar

Sunday 13th Nov
AM (Parish Choir)
Remembrance Day
Byrd IV
Ave Maria - Schubert

PM (Chamber Choir)
Blair in B minor
Expectans Expectavi - Wood

Sunday 20th Nov
AM (Parish Choir)
2nd before Advent
Darke in F
Thou knowest Lord - Purcell

PM (Parish Men only)
Sumsion in G
Seigneur je vous en prie - Quatre motet - Poulenc

Sunday 27th Nov
AM (Parish Choir)
Advent Sunday
English Folk Mass
No motet

PM (Parish Choir)
Advent Carol Service (See Special Sheet)

Sunday 4th Dec
AM (Parish Choir)
Advent II
Stanford in C
Salve Regina - Poulenc

PM (Parish Choir)
Purcell in G minor
Rejoice in the Lord Always - Anon

Sunday 11th Dec
AM (Parish Choir)
Advent III
Missa Aeterna Christi Munera - Palestrina
Hosanna to the Son - Weelkes

PM (Chamber Choir)
Second Service - Gibbons
This is the Record of John - Gibbons

Sunday 18th Dec
AM - Parish Choir
Advent IV
Howells Coll Reg
Rorate caeli - Byrd

PM - Christmas Carol Service 5pm (See Christmas Carol Service Sheet) Parish Choir

Saturday 24th Dec Xmas Eve (Parish Choir)
Missa Brevis in F - Palestrina
Silent night - Arr Darlington & O magnum mysterium - Poulenc & Ding Dong

Sunday 25th Dec
AM (Parish Choir)
Xmas Day - Music to be confirmed

PM - No sung evensong

St George's Choristers sitting "Eleven Plus" tests

2005-10-29T20:10:00.000+01:00

Six of our super brainy choristers are sitting their eleven plus tests at the moment :

Tor Alexander

Edmund Bell

Alan Burns

Archie Frew

Matthew Thompson

Callum Maxwell

We wish you all the best with your exams!! From all the Men and boys in the choir and from all the staff and congregation at St George's.

A New Term at St George's - Sept 05

2005-10-08T18:49:00.000+01:00

Welcome to the website of the choirs of St George's High Street, Belfast - This is intended as a web "blog" designed to assist with general communication for our choir. It is a place for all choir members both young and old, past choir members, parents of members, and anyone else who is interested to check in on what's happening in St George's choir and share photos, recordings of the choir and become generally a meeting place for us all.

On the right there is a link to schedules so that we all know where we should be and when, together with music lists, outings, and other such things - basically if in doubt check this site!!!

I must emphasis though that for this to become a really interesting place to be, we need feedback from everyone. What are the great untapped ideas in our choir? What would you like to see our choir achieve??
If you have any ideas or any contibutions to make to this site, please please e-mail me. Photographs, achievements, news of past members, anything at all - it would be great to hear from you. My e-mail address is mark.mcguire@btinternet.com. Also, at any stage you can post a comment on anything you see here by clicking "Comment" at the end of each post.

Hope you like the website and there are links on the right hand side of the page to other items of interest

Idea for a Trip

2005-09-18T21:54:00.000+01:00

The Lay-Clerks of Christ Church Oxford - spot anyone you know???

Plans are underway for a full choral trip to be organised for next summer to Christ Church Oxford. David has already secured the date of 30th August 2006 for us to sing Sunday services as the "visiting choir". You will no doubt realise that David spent a few years in Christ Church as a lay-clerk and has utilised his connections to enable us to visit there.

What some of the Choristers may not realise is that Christ Church Oxford is the place where all the Great Hall scenes of the film "Harry Potter" were filmed by Warner Brothers.

This trip is still in development and a week around this booking has to be built so more on this to follow. David proposes to either have a trip starting the week before the 30th July and finishing on the Sunday or else the week after the 30th July as he would like to get bookings in other venues, one of which may be St George's Windsor.

Once more is known I will post it up for everyone. Further consultation will be taking place between David, the Parents Comittee and the Vestry.

Mark

Some Photos

2005-09-17T15:47:00.000+01:00

Stanley Robinson has provided these photos for the website of our choir, so many thanks to Stanley for taking the time to send them to me. He has promised more to follow and if you have any images like these, please e-mail them to me - mark.mcguire@btinternet.com. If you click on the images you should be able to see them on a slightly larger scale and clearer. They can be downloaded by right clicking on the images and select "save as" to one of your folders.

These images you will remember were used in the Christmas card produced last year courtesy of F3photo.net. There are still some batches of these left and if anyone would like to purchase some for this year please contact Stanley. His e-mail address is stanleyr@utvinternet.com

Also the idea has been suggested that, over the next few months, a modest seasonal recording of our choir should be made and included as a CD within the Christmas cards. I think you will agree that this is a very good idea and hopefully more details will follow once finalised.

Mark

Wedding Saturday 17th September

2005-09-13T18:44:00.000+01:00

The wedding of Catherine Harper (a well known Northern Ireland Soprano Soloist) and Peter Morgan Barnes who has in his time directed the Castleward Opera Company were very well received in the church today. Music was commented upon by many members of the congregation and to complement our own offering there was a clarinet player (the bride's sister) and a harpist. The church was beautifully decorated using foliage and lilies for the occasion and some photos will follow.

Downpatrick Concert

2005-09-01T21:30:00.000+01:00

Looking ahead there will be a "Christmas Concert" (confirmed today) in Downpatrick Art's Centre on Saturday 3rd December in the evening organised by Downpatrick District Council. This concert will involve the Parish Choir of St George in a "Solo Spot" and promises to be a prestigious event in our calendar. More on that to follow but please make a note of it in your diaries. I am told that it is an annual event and it is normal for there to be Mince Pies and Mulled Wine afterwards....

Many Thanks

David Revels

Music List for Sept - Oct 2005

2005-08-02T16:14:00.000+01:00

Sun 4th Sept : Morning
Sung by : Parish Choir
Communion : Sumsion in F
Anthem / Motet : Ave Verum - Mozart
Psalm 149

Sun 4th Sept : Evening
Sung by : Parish Choir
Evening Canticles : Stanford in Bb
Anthem : Give us the Wings of Faith - Bullock
Psalm 108
Responses Clucas

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Sun 11th Sept : Morning
Sung by : Parish Choir
Communion : Darke in A Minor
Anthem / Motet : Thou Knowest Lord
Psalm 114

Sun 11th Sept : Evening
Sung by : Chamber Choir
Evening Canticles : Howells Coll Reg
Anthem : Thou Wilt Keep Him In Perfect Peace - Wesley
Psalm 119 : 41:48
Responses Howells

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Sun 18th Sept : Morning
Sung by : Parish Choir
Communion : Byrd 4 Part
Anthem / Motet : Ave Verum : Byrd
Psalm 105 1-6 and 37-45

Sun 18th Sept : Evening
Sung by : Parish Men Only
Evening Canticles : First Service : Phillip Moore
Anthem : Lord Thou Hast Been Our Refuge - Walker (Soloist Jonny Roberts)
Psalm 119 : 121-128
Responses Tallis

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Sun 25th Sept : Morning
Sung by : Parish Choir
Communion : Darke in F
Anthem / Motet : Tantum Ergo - Severac
Psalm 78 1-4 & 12-16

Sun 25th Sept : Evening
Sung by : Parish Boys Only
Evening Canticles : Dyson in C Minor
Anthem : Hurford - A Litany
Psalm 124
Responses : Plainsong

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Sun 2nd Oct : Morning
Sung by : Parish Choir
Communion : Stanford In C
Anthem / Motet : ave Verum - Elgar
Psalm 19

Sun 2nd Oct : Evening
Sung by : Full Parish Choir
Evening Canticles : Dyson in D
Anthem : Expectans Expectavi - Wood
Psalm 136 (Setting by MJ Howe)
Responses : Plainsong

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Sun 9th Oct : Morning

IMPORTANT - This is Harvest and therefore contrary to original published schedule will be FULL CHOIR in the morning and not BOYS ONLY.
Sung by : Parish Choir
Communion : TBC
Anthem / Motet : TBC
Psalm TBC

Sun 9th Oct : Evening
Sung by : Chamber Choir
Evening Canticles : Blair in B Minor
Anthem : God is Gone Up - Finzi
Psalm 139 : 1-8
Responses : Smith

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Sun 16th October : Morning
Sung by : Parish Choir
Communion : Missa Aeterna Christi Munera - Palestrina
Anthem / Motet : Salve Regina - Poulenc
Psalm 99

Sun 16th Oct : Evening
Sung by : Parish Men Only
Evening Canticles : First Service - Sheppard
Anthem : Gloria Tibi Domine - Byrd
Psalm 142
Responses : Tallis

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Sun 23rd October : Morning
Sung by : Parish Choir
Communion : TBC
Anthem / Motet : TBC
Psalm TBC

Sun 23rd Oct : Evening
Sung by : Parish Boys Only
Evening Canticles : Long in F
Anthem : He Delivereth The Poor - Parry
Psalm 119 - 89-104
Responses : Plainsong

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Sun 30th October : Morning
Sung by : Men
Communion : Byrd 3
Anthem / Motet : Remember Me O Lord (Tomkins)
Psalm TBC

Sun 23rd Oct : Evening
Sung by : Parish Boys Only
Evening Canticles : Walmisley in D minor
Anthem : Evening Hymn - Gardiner
Responses : Morely

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Contact Details for Church Personnel

2005-08-01T13:41:00.004+01:00

Director of Music
Dr Emma Gibbins

Mobile – 07952 514117
E-mail : Emma Gibbins

Parish Office
Telephone: 028 9023 1275
Email: office.stgeorges@connor.anglican.org

Rector
The Reverend Brian Stewart
St George's Rectory,
6 Royal Lodge Park,
Belfast,
BT8 7YP
Tel : 028 9070 1350