Music

Music plays an important part in the services at St John's and a sung setting is used for the weekly communion service. This is normally the upbeat Appleford setting, but during Advent and Lent the more contemplative Murray setting is used. The hymnbook we use is "Hymns Old and New, New Anglican Edition" and each week there is usually a mixture of traditional hymns, newer songs and Taizé chants.

There is a small choir that leads the singing, but the congregation do not hold back and there is never a fear of feeling embarrassed if you enjoy singing, as happens in some churches! The choir sits at the front of the church near the organ and aims to produce an anthem for special Sundays throughout the year, but it is not easy to rehearse as some members live considerable distances from the church. Choir practice is held in church at 9.30am on the second and fourth Sundays of the month. If you stay for any length of time in the area and would like to be part of the choir, you need to be able to read music and to be able to sing four-part harmony. If this is the case, please join us at choir practices.

There are two organists who live in the area full time, and they are supplemented by visitors who stay from a few weeks up to six months whose input is highly valued, plus others who fill in when required. There is a relatively new electronic organ which has 2 manuals and a full pedal board.

If you are a visitor to the church and require the music editions of the hymnbook and service setting, please ask the sidesman who welcomes you or the organist. If you would like to play for the services during your stay, please use the contact details on this website so that you can be incorporated into the rota.