Music at Wesley Memorial
Music is an important part of our worship: hymns and songs, accompanying
prayers and readings, as well as devotional anthems and instrumental
interludes. We are blessed with a wide range of musical talent and resources,
and we aim to use these in as full and varied a way as possible.
For information about our dramatic and musical extravaganzas such as Alternativity see drama.
Choir
The choir makes a regular and important contribution to Sunday morning
worship, with music from many different traditions. The repertoire contains a
wide variety of music, from across the ages and around the world. A good
number of young people sing in the choir.
Rehearsals take place in the church on Fridays at 7.30 p.m. and at 9.45 a.m. on Sundays throughout the year (apart from the month of August). There are also regular social events, and occasional concerts. New members of all ages and ability are always welcome – come and introduce yourself after the Sunday morning service, or e-mail music@wesleymem.org.uk
Music group
As well as the organ, Wesley Memorial also has a music group consisting of
piano, keyboard, bass, strings, clarinets, flutes, oboes, guitars, bassoon
and a variety of other instruments (although not everyone is there every
week!). The group accompanies at least one of the hymns each Sunday morning
as well as occasionally joining the choir for the anthem or to provide music
during communion. The music includes worship songs, Iona,
Taizé as well as material from the World Church.
We welcome anyone who can play an instrument. Although we are limited to a short rehearsal before the service, music is generally available in advance for those who need it.
If anyone would like to join us, they would be very welcome. Further details from music@wesleymem.org.uk Otherwise, simply turn up on a Sunday morning with your instrument and join in!
Rockfish
The recently formed junior church band plays a selection of contemporary
gospel and secular music in worship and special events. All are welcome.
Original music
A good proportion of repertoire of the choir
and music group comes from home-grown arrangements and original hymns and
songs. One such hymn, In Christ is our Salvation, was written in
1988 by Clare Matthews and Anthony Eddy to mark the 250th anniversary of John
Wesley's conversion experience.
