Sing with Us
Sing with Us at Christ Church North Adelaide!
About the Church and Choir
Christ Church North Adelaide is a traditional Anglican Church established in 1849, renowned for its stunning architecture and exceptional acoustics, making it one of the finest venues for sacred choral music in Adelaide. Our services are conducted using the timeless language of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, where music is a cherished component.
The Christ Church North Adelaide Choir performs at weekly Choral Eucharist and Choral Evensong services from February to Christmas Day, showcasing a diverse repertoire that celebrates the rich tradition of sacred choral music. Some services are led by a solo Cantor, offering the full choir moments of respite. Additionally, the choir sings during special services such as Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Saturday.
Rehearsals take place on Thursdays from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM. While primarily a working choir that provides music for worship, we also participate in public concerts and special events throughout the year.
Expectations of Choristers
Our choir consists of both voluntary and paid singers, categorized into three important roles following a review by the church’s Select Vestry in 2022.
Voluntary Choristers:
– Fluent music reading ability
– Pleasant and natural voice
– Good musical ear and sense of musicianship
– Punctual, reliable, and a team player
– Willingness to prepare music in advance
Choral Scholars:
– All the above, plus:
– Current Tertiary or Secondary students
– Undertaking vocal lessons and developing vocal skills
– Ability to sing solos as requested
– Developing sight-singing skills
– Willingness to assist with the music library and other duties
Lay Clerks:
– All the above, but not necessarily a student, plus:
– Excellent vocal skills and technique
– Leadership qualities to guide Choral Scholars and Voluntary Choristers
– Exemplary professional conduct and musical preparation
– Ability to lead congregational services as a solo cantor or in a small ensemble
– Good sight-singing skills
Choristers do not need to be practising Christians but are expected to support the worship and mission of Christ Church North Adelaide and the Anglican Church of Australia. All Choristers must complete Safe Ministry training and obtain clearance, including a Working with Children Check.
Application Process
To apply for a position in the Christ Church Choir, please complete the Application Form. Auditions will be scheduled in July and December each year, and the panel will include the Director of Music and a professional singing teacher or choral conductor. An accompanist will be provided.
Applicants will be asked to:
– Sing a piece of their choice
– Sight-read various passages of choral music
– Complete a set of aural tests
– Participate in a brief interview
Renewal of Positions
Choral Scholar and Lay Clerk positions will be reviewed annually, with all positions subject to a three-month probationary period.
Remuneration
Unlike most community choirs, there are no membership fees to sing in the Christ Church Choir. Remuneration details include:
– Choral Scholars: Total annual remuneration of $5,250
– Lay Clerks: Engaged as casual employees, with indicative annual remuneration of approximately $9,000 – $10,000 plus superannuation.
