The Choir at St. John’s

The choir is open to anyone who enjoys singing a wide variety of sacred music to a high standard (or who’d like to learn). We’re part of the congregation at St John’s – quite a few of our singers contribute to other aspects of church life – but we recognise that we’re called to a ministry providing music that integrates with, and enhances, our worship. We practice on Wednesday evenings (8.15-9.45pm) in term time, and sing at most Sunday services through the year. Of course, not all of our (currently) 15 singers can make every practice and services – most have busy lives with other commitments – so we operate an ‘availability’ scheme indicating which services/practices you can make.

Whether you’re an experienced singer who sight reads, or you’ve always wanted to join a choir but never had the opportunity, the first step is to contact our Director of Music, Ian Church (email music@stjohnswestbyfleet.org.uk or call/text 07860 520686). Usually we’ll invite you to a Wednesday rehearsal, followed by a brief and informal chance to sing a few notes alone (with no audience!).

We’re passionate about music education – and encourage all our singers to keep learning. To help develop your voice, we provide tuition from professional soprano and voice coach Susanna Fairbairn and also tuition to improve sight reading and musicality.

As members of the RSCM (Royal School of Church Music), we have access to their highly respected training schemes, including newly available online resources.

Young singers – St John’s Junior Choir

Following our summer holiday club (August 2023), we’ve now re-established our Junior Choir for children age 7-12 (school years 2-8). Practices are on Tuesday evenings 6.15-7pm, and the Junior Choir sings at the Family Communion service (usually the 3rd Sunday each month). The Junior Choir also sings at our termly afternoon Family Services (eg Pentecost Praise & Christingle), and performs a Nativity Musical or related event, in December. More information from music@stjohnswestbyfleet.org.uk

Junior Choir Christmas Tree Carols 2025 – click here to listen to the children rehearsing for their upcoming carol service