Our Core Values

Worship

The Episcopal Church has nurtured the tradition of worship led by choir. In this tradition, the choir leads worship through the singing of service music, canticles, hymns, psalms, and anthems. This leadership requires a sincere commitment from the choir. As such, the choir performs a sacramental role in worship, offering their gifts from God to the people of God through sung prayer. We strive to preserve that worship tradition and teach future generations to be capable inheritors.

Community

The innate beauty of our worship tradition is one of the strongest ways that we connect with people outside of our church membership. We strive to invite our neighbors and broader community to join with us. We hope to go beyond our walls to share God’s gift of music with all whom we meet.

Why We Do This

The music program of St. Thomas is dedicated to continuing this rich heritage of sacred choral music. The singer’s time spent in rehearsals is intense preparation for a sacramental duty in the life of worship and prayer. It is through this dedication of time and talent that we can come together as one to support excellent music and liturgy that is meant to uplift those who worship. Music has a significant role to play in our spiritual lives. It has the power to uplift, to teach, to unite, and is an integral part of inspiring worship.

The Parish Choir (Teens and Adults)

The St. Thomas Parish Choir consists of adults and teens and sings at the 10:15 am service from after Labor Day to Pentecost, as well as special services and events throughout the year. The choir rehearses Thursday evenings from 7:00 – 9:30 p.m. The choir’s repertoire includes traditional Anglican works, choral masterworks from all eras, as well as the work of modern composers. Some choral experience is recommended, although the Choral Scholars can help and lead less experienced singers.

The Choristers (grades 3-8)

The Choristers are in grades 3-8. Girls can continue to sing with the Senior Choristers through 8th grade, boys until voice change. They rehearse weekly from September to early May and sing one Sunday per month. They also sing with the professional Bach Ensemble at St. Thomas. They participate in Lessons and Carols and sing on Palm Sunday and Easter Day. They wear red cassocks with white surplices. Choristers participate in the Royal School of Music VOICE for LIFE program, where they can earn medals with colored ribbons which they wear when singing.

Children’s Choir (all ages)

The Children’s Choir is an introduction to choral singing for young voices offered as part of the Sunday Morning Formation program. They rehearse weekly from October to early May and sing on the first Sunday of the month. For more information about any of the ensembles, please contact Dr. Carlton Monroe.