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THE CHORISTER SEQUENCE
Probationer
Novice
Junior/Senior Boy or Girl
Junior/Senior Chorister |
- Probationer – A boy or girl who is interested in joining the choristers may participate in rehearsals as a probationer. The basic requirements to become a chorister are accurate pitch, the ability to read (text), be in 2nd or 3rd grade** and possess the ability to commit to one rehearsal per week. Probationers are not vested with a cassock until they have expressed a true desire to be a member of the choir in addition to possessing the basic abilities to allow them to grow musically and spiritually with the chorister family.
- Novice – Once a probationer is received into the choir, they will begin a period whereby the basics of music, tone production, choir membership, notation reading and choir discipline are learned. Novices are gradually introduced to the mission and work of the choir over a period not to exceed two terms (Fall/Spring). Novices are vested with a cassock (and ruff), are required to attend two weekly rehearsals and begin the singing of hymns and service music at the celebration of the Holy Eucharist as scheduled.
- Junior/Senior Boy or Girl – Following the completion of the novice period, the new singer is whited with a surplice as a Junior Singer and begins to participate in the training scheme of the choir. Each level as a singer may last no longer than two terms. Junior and senior boys and girls participate in two weekly rehearsals, two Eucharist per month and one evensong or other service/presentation/concert.
- Junior/Senior Chorister – Following at least two years membership on the choir, choristers proceed to the level of Junior Chorister whereby they enjoy of the benefits of advanced membership in the choir. The ability to sight read, knowledge of the liturgy, the basic prayers (Our Father, Creed, etc.), understanding of the liturgical year and ability to sing challenging repertoire are hallmarks of Junior and Senior Choristers. Choristers sing at all principle services, including evensongs and concerts. They may participate in away trips, as soloist, and as mentors to younger choristers. The choristers are also eligible for scholarships, recommendations, and may be eligible to receive the Rectors Award, the Choirmaster Achievement Award, and nomination to regional and national competitions and festivals.
**Boys and Girls aged 10 and older are invited to join the choristers pending previous choral experience and/or very strong promise and musical preparation. They will follow a modified chorister sequence (see above) as determined by the CM.
Chorister Participation
Choristers participate in the worship ministry of the Church by providing music and leadership to the congregation to the glory of God.
Senior boys and girls and choristers sing twice monthly at the 10AM Holy Eucharist and present one Sunday evening Evensong at 5PM. Novices and Junior boys and girls participate in singing at the 10AM Holy Eucharist once or twice a month and may participate in Evensong at the CM’s discretion. All choristers participate in the Voice for Life training scheme and are awarded ranks through out the spring term. For more detail on the training scheme of this choir, please contact the CM. Junior boys and girls may be asked to participate with the seniors as the spring term progresses and/or upon receipt of the blue ribbon.
Attendance
All choristers are expected to attend the twice weekly rehearsals, remain for supper on Wednesday evening and participate in the liturgy as scheduled. All missed rehearsals and services should be discussed with the CM in advance via telephone or by email.
Choir Dress
Girls shall wear a white shirt or blouse, dark slacks or skirt, white or dark stockings or socks and comfortable dress shoes.
Boys shall wear a shirt or polo, dark slacks and dark comfortable dress shoes.
Dinners
The Wednesday evening communal dinner is an important component of the chorister program. Meals should be prepared with the following in mind; the number of choristers present at each meal (18+), the amount of time some choristers have to eat before the later rehearsal begins (25 minutes only - 6:15-6:40 is supper time with the exception of Ash Wednesday which falls on March 1st) and also a non-meat option. Meals during the Lenten season should be simple and meatless. Host for the early part of spring term are list on the below calendar. If you would like to sign up for a meal date, please contact Robert Lee.
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