Music

Director of Music: Rupert Preston Bell
Organist: Michael Bacon
Assistant Organists: Jonathan Hagger, Jonathan Smith, Robin Hepburn

See also concerts.

King Charles has always enjoyed a strong musical tradition, and benefits from the services of a number of talented organists from the congregation. The organ is one of the best in the area, and is often used for recitals.

The Parish Choir sings at the Parish Communion services and for special occasions such as the carol service. It has around fifteen members and rehearses on Sunday mornings before the service. We welcome competent singers whether they are able to make a regular or occasional commitment.

In 2007, the church's Junior Choir started again after a few years' break. We now have a dozen members aged between 7 and 14, who rehearse once a month in place of  Sunday School and sing in services once most months. This is an opportunity for children to learn about music and to have some fun along the way. We make use of music and tuition resources from the RSCM. New members are always welcome!

The King Charles Singers also provide music for choral evensongs and other services on an occasional basis.

Services at feast days involving special music, and especially the Christmas services, are highlights of the church's year.

One feature of 2008 was a full day of choral services to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the death of Ralph Vaughan-Williams in October. Music included anthems and hymns written by the composer at Parish Communion, Mattins and Evensong, supported by a choir.

Choral Evensong

Evensong at 6.30 on the third Sunday of most months is fully choral, with sung canticles and responses, a chanted psalm and an anthem.

We aim to maintain a high standard of music at all services at King Charles, but these occasions give wider scope for worship to be enhanced through high quality music, in the cathedral tradition.

Any suggestions for (or from) choirs who might like to help us maintain a regular round of these services are very welcome. Please contact the parish office.