The Abbey Choir
Waltham Abbey Choir is a mixed voice adult choir whose primary function is to serve the liturgy of Waltham Abbey. The current choir comprises singers from a wide variety of backgrounds: teachers, professional singers, conservationists and police officers are amongst our long-standing members. On average, the choir sings for 5 services per month. Rehearsals take place on Fridays from 7.30 to 9.00 p.m., and on Sundays before services. The choir sings an extensive repertoire to a high standard, encompassing the wealth of choral music available, from Tallis (once organist of the Abbey) and Byrd through to 21st century commissions. As well as leading the worship at services, the choir gives regular concerts and has undertaken various broadcasts for radio & television, cathedral visits, and to date, four CD recordings, all of which are available from the Abbey gift shop.
Joining the Choir
If you are interested in singing with the choir, please contact the Director of Music to arrange an audition. This will involve some vocal exercises and some simple sight-reading.
Commitment
Rehearsals: Fridays 7.30 to 9.00 p.m.
Services:
1st Sunday Choral Communion 6.30 p.m. (rehearsal 5.30)
2nd Sunday Parish Communion
10.30 a.m. (rehearsal 9.45)
Choral Evensong 6.30 p.m. (rehearsal 5.30)
4th Sunday Parish Communion
10.30 a.m. (rehearsal 9.45)
Choral Evensong 6.30 p.m. (rehearsal 5.30)
Visiting Choirs
Throughout the year, and especially during the Abbey Choir’s vacation, we welcome visiting choirs from all over the country and abroad to lead our worship. Visiting choirs often sing Choral Evensong on a Saturday afternoon at 5.00 p.m. and during the August break we gladly welcome choirs to lead the Eucharist and Evensong services. To apply, contact the Parish Office.