Music - The Choir

Continuing a tradition of musical excellence that stretches back to the consecration of the Church, the present Choir of St Matthew's consists of boy and girl choristers aged between eight and eighteen who are supported by a dedicated team of mixed male and female adult singers on the back row of the choir stalls. The large repertoire of the choir enables it to enhance the worship at St Matthew's on a weekly basis and perform music to an exceptionally high standard to the Glory of God.

The Choir sings two services most Sundays in term time, in addition to which they have been involved in television and radio broadcasts, and made commercial recordings. The Choir also visits Cathedrals up and down the country to sing services, most recently Peterborough, Bristol and Leicester, as well as performing concerts at St Matthew's and enjoying social events together. The Choir undertakes a week-long tour during August each year, to St Davids (2012), Portsmouth (2013) Carlisle (2014), Exeter (2015) and in 2016 to Chester. The 2025 tour will be to Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff.

There are currently opportunities for new choristers to join the Choir. Vocal and musical training is provided, and bursaries are available. Choristers rehearse on Tuesday and Friday evenings during term time. Contact Tom Moore, Director of Music, for more information.

The music department is overseen by a Director of Music, Parish Organist and Organ Scholar.

Thinking of joining the choir at St Matthew's?

Watch this inspiring 10-minute video which showcases the rich musical heritage and tradition of St Matthew's Church Choir through intimate interviews with key figures who have shaped its legacy. Listen to past and present choir members, sharing personal stories about their experiences, the joy of singing, and the community in which they have been or continue to be a part of.

The video also features an exclusive interview with Stephen Cleobury, celebrated former St Matthew's organist and Director of Music, and more recently, Director of Music at King's College, Cambridge. He offers his expert insight into the broader tradition of sacred music and what it means to be chorister and the skills you take with you in later life.

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