The primary function of the choir is to lead the singing for 11am Mass on Sunday mornings and other liturgical feasts throughout the year such as Christmas and Easter services. Having a choir also makes it possible for the congregation to learn new hymns or settings of the Mass by hearing them, rather than the distraction of being taught them before Mass begins. The guidelines are the recommendations of the Bishops of England and Wales as to which parts of the Mass should regularly be sung and their wish that the congregation should join in singing everything possible. The hymns are chosen to reflect the scripture readings of the day. The choir try to please everyone by maintaining a balance between the old and the new.
Rehearsals take place in church during the week at a convenient time for members and always include the music for the following Sunday as well as forthcoming feasts. There are no practices during July and August and they also have time off after Christmas and Easter. The choir is essentially a group of people who enjoy singing, and many, though not all of them have been members for a very long time. They are however always keen to recruit new blood and there is no need to be able to read music, nor are there any individual voice tests! Rehearsals are hard work, but enjoyable, and all those who would like to join are welcome, simply come along to a practice, or alternatively speak to any of the choir members or Margaret Ruxton.