The Choir of St. Mary’s Church from Maldon, in the County of Essex, in the United Kingdom, will sing a concert program of British classics including music of Britten, Stanford and William Byrd on Monday, July 29, at 7 p.m. at Saint John’s Episcopal Church, 48 Middle St Gloucester. There is free parking at 33 Washington St. The public is welcome, there will be a free will offering. 978.283.1708
The Choir of St Mary’s, Maldon, is a mixed choir of adults and children which leads the worship Sunday by Sunday. The ethos of the choir is rooted in the rich tradition of Anglican Choral music but also draws heavily on continental experience, singing music from the sixteenth century to the present day. Formed, in its present guise, in January 2008, the choir has gained an enviable reputation both in the UK and around the world. They are now recognised as one of the best choirs in the Diocese of Chelmsford and receive frequent invitations to sing at special services and concerts in Chelmsford Cathedral and in parishes throughout Essex.
The choir’s first CD, A Maldon Christmas, was issued in 2009 and a second is currently in preparation. The choir gives an annual liturgical performance of Bach’s St John Passion on Good Friday, accompanied by professional original instrument ensemble, Spiritato. This moving event, complete with homily by the Bishop of Chelmsford, sees the church packed to capacity, with standing room only.
Touring is an important part of the choir’s schedule. Besides touring in the UK, they have sung in Germany and several times in Italy. This is the choir’s first trip across the Atlantic and they are delighted to be visiting their sister town of Malden, Mass., to which, along with the Parish of St Paul, they are extremely grateful for the kind hospitality they have received.
Good Morning Gloucester 