THE CHOIR
The Choir, in red robes, can be seen and heard at all the main services at St. Edmund's. Its chief purpose is to lead the congregation in the singing and to provide anthems and service settings as required. Many people find music adds a dimension to their worship and the Choir tries to help in this.
At the moment the regular Choir has 15 members of sopranos, altos, tenors and basses, but is often augmented by friends and former members who have moved too far away for full time attendance. They join it for events such as Carol Services and for works like the Fauré Requiem, Stainer's Crucifixion, Pergolesi's Stabat Mater, and Handel's Messiah.
In addition to its work for services, members of the Choir have joined in musical productions of Arrow Players, the most recent being "Hopes and Dreams".
They also join with local choirs in the Deanery Festival and with St. Margaret's School Choirs in Bushey. The Choir is affiliated to the Royal Schools of Church Music and has sung under its auspices in St. Paul's Cathedral.
Rehearsals are each week on Friday at 7.45pm. We would very much welcome new members in all voices. Some singing experience would be helpful but this is not always necessary. Do come and talk to one of us if you are interested.
The members of the Choir take an active part in the general life and work of St. Edmund's.
Nora Wood Choir Director
020 8386 1280
THE ORGAN AND THE ORGANIST
Mark Hammond has been organist at St Edmund's since September 2000. He was
born in Bournemouth and began to learn the organ at the age of thirteen with
the late Geoffrey Tristram at Christchurch Priory. He continued his organ
studies with John Belcher, Martin Neary and David Sanger. He was organ
scholar at Peterhouse, Cambridge University, where he read music.After graduating, Mark went to Durham University where he studied for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. He is currently Assistant Director of Music at St Margaret's School, Bushey.
As well as giving solo recitals, Mark has formed a Trumpet and Organ duo with his brother. Together they have performed at such venues as Wesminster Abbey, Southwark Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament.
Organ Music for the Month
Hear the Organ
Click to go to Mark Hammond's own website