The Music Programme of St Mary of the Angel's has grown considerably in recent times.

Music at the 9:30 Mass for Families is provided by the Parish Choirs.  The Junior Choir gave its first performance at Christmas Eve Mass 2006 and has since gone from strength to strength.  It now numbers some 29 boys and girls (ages six to twelve). The group rehearses on Friday evenings during term-time and leads the singing from the North Aisle, with piano accompaniment, on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month.  The Gallery Choir formed in early 2007 for adult amateur singers leads the music from the organ gallery, with organ accompaniment, on the 1st and 3rd Sundays each month. There are currently 12 members. Rehearsals are on Monday evenings.  If you are a current choir member, please click here to view details of the latest rehearsal and performance schedule

Music at 12 noon Solemn Mass consists is led on most weeks by organist and cantor, with a seasonal aria often sung during the offertory or communion.  The Humilitas Vocal Quartet (formed on the occasion of the church's 150th Anniversary in November 2007) sing on one Sunday each month, and on feastdays and at Christmas and Easter, sing on the 1st Sunday of each month.

The church's organ was built by the famous 19th century organ-builder William Hill, with later additions by the firm of Gray & Davison, and though in need of extensive refurbishment, still manages to hold its own in the church's generous acoustic. The instrument is currently under the care of Harrison & Harrison organ builders.  The organ music at the Sunday Masses consists both of improvisations on seasonal liturgical themes, and the performance of a wide range of organ works from the literature.

John Alexander Ward, Music Director at St Mary of the Angels, is principal organist and conductor of all 3 choirs.  He would be delighted to hear from anyone interested in joining one of the choirs, or with any enquiries, comments, or suggestions relating to the music programme here at St Mary of the Angels.

To e-mail the Music Director, please click here.