A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CHOIR
The choir was founded in 1981 by Chris Richardson, who was then also the Organist at St Matthew’s Church. After 22 years Chris retired as Musical Director of the Thursday choir, continuing as organist and choirmaster on Sundays for a few more years before retiring fully. Phiroz Dalal took over as Musical Director of the Thursday choir in 2003, and since then has continued to extend the choir's repertoire and give us some challenges alongside choral favourites. After celebrating 20 years in the chair, Phiroz has reluctantly moved away with fresh work opportunities, and we were pleased that an established friend of the choir, Michael Veazey, was able to take the reigns and lead us forward.
WHAT WE DO
Performing
We aim to give three performances a year, towards the end of each term. We have an ambitious repertoire but also enjoy performing the well-known and loved works written for choirs. We rehearse on Thursday evenings but the week before a concert we usually add in an extra rehearsal on a Saturday morning, a Tuesday or Wednesday evening and of course one on the afternoon of the concert itself.
Networks
We enjoy working with other local and London-based professional and amateur musicians. We enjoy publicising other events that members are involved in, from musical theatre to plays.
Social
We don’t just sing - we like to allow time to get to know each other too. We have a tea break each week and at least one social event per term. Social events can include carol singing in a local pub followed by a meal, quiz nights and BBQs. We open the choir season with a short rehearsal followed by a glass of something bubbly and a few nibbles so that we can welcome new people and catch up with old friends. You can become more involved by doing anything from signing up to the tea rota to standing for a Committee post. Your friends and family can also get involved in anything from being part of the front of house crew on concert nights to staffing the bar.
Refreshments
Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided each week during the break. There is a rota so please help by signing up and doing your bit, with a buddy.
Communications
We send a choir newsletter by email towards the beginning of each term and ‘Information for Performers’ in the lead up to each performance. You can check what is going on through this website.
Subscriptions
We charge termly subscriptions to fund our rehearsals and concerts, and this allows you to vote at our Annual General Meeting.
