From the earliest days of Christian worship, music has been central to the life of the Church. Church choirs trace their origins back to the first Christian communities, where psalms and hymns were sung as acts of prayer, teaching, and praise. As the Church grew and worship became more structured, designated groups of singers emerged to lead congregations in song and to beautify the liturgy.
Today’s church choirs stand in this long and faithful line of singers. They are not merely performers, but servants of worship—offering their voices to support prayer, proclaim the Word, and draw the congregation into a deeper experience of praise. Through centuries of change, the purpose of the church choir has remained the same: to glorify God and unite hearts through sacred song.
Know a child who loves to sing?
Singing is good because it benefits the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—and it brings people together in a uniquely powerful way.
• Physically, singing improves breathing, posture, and lung function.
• Emotionally and mentally, singing is a natural mood booster.
• Socially, singing creates connection. When people sing together, their breathing and heart rates often synchronize, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.
• Spiritually, especially in worship, singing helps express faith in ways words alone cannot.
In short, singing is good because it heals, connects, and uplifts—turning breath into expression, sound into meaning, and individuals into a community.
Could I join the choir?
• Yes – there is a voice inside us all!
• No previous experience is necessary – just an appetite to participate and learn.
If you would like to find out more, please contact our Director of Music, Alistair Timmis, via ‘yorkorganist@gmail.com’.
Practices take place at All Saints’ on Thursdays at 7pm. Bespoke levels of commitment according to your needs can be discussed.
The choir normally sings at the Eucharists held at 10:45am on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Sundays of each month, plus special occasions and important services in the liturgical calendar.