Music holds an integral place within the liturgy: It unifies and heightens our response to the Word of God. The array of opportunities to make music at St. James’ challenges those with years of musical experience while offering the less experienced a new way to express their faith. Participation in one of our choirs provides the chance to contribute to our communal life in an active and vibrant way. Above all, by fostering a tradition of musical excellence, we become instruments through which God moves and speaks. Ultimately, we bring the Gospel to life in a palpable and transcendent way.
Canterbury Choir
Rehearses Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
The Canterbury Choir is the principal adult choir at the 9:10 a.m. liturgy and is comprised of volunteers. This choir sings a wide variety of musical styles, from anthems incorporating children’s choirs to complex Renaissance motets. The Canterbury Choir allows members to maintain a fairly flexible schedule, yet holds to a particularly high standard of choral excellence.
Compostela Choir
The Compostela Choir is comprised of auditioned professionals who represent some of the finest choral singers in New York City. This choir sings each Sunday at 11:15 a.m., maintaining the legacy of the Anglican choral tradition, which elevates the liturgy to a transcendent, other-worldly level. The Compostela Choir sings repertoire representing the finest sacred music from the Renaissance to the present day.