The Church has three principal Choirs: the Boys Choir, the mixed Chamber Choir and the new Girls' Choir. We have also restarted the Children's Choir. All our choirs enjoy an active social life in addition to their music-making. All work involving children is covered by the Church's Child Protection Policy.
We are actively recruiting girls aged 11 to 18 for the new Girls' Choir, children aged 5 to 13 for the Children's Choir and boys aged six and upwards for the Parish Choir. There are also a few vacancies for adults for the Parish and Chamber Choirs.
Girls' Choir
We are delighted to announce the formation of a new Girls' Choir to allow girls to participate fully in the musical and social life of the church. It is for singers aged 11 to 18, this choir will run on similar lines to the Boys' Choir, with weekly rehearsals, singing a wide range of music at our Sunday Services, and enjoying the benefits of the same musical education. Initially we expect the girls to sing at one or two services per month, but as the choir develops this frequency will increase. If you are interested in joining contact the Parish office on 0114 230 1199, or just come along to a Thursday evening choir practice.
Girls' Choir practice times
- Thursdays: 5.45 to 6.45 pm
Boys' Choir
The Boys' Choir continues a rich, centuries-old tradition of all-male choirs and forms an important part of the worship at St John's. The boy choristers are a valuable asset and, aside from the sound musical education that they receive, they enjoy a varied social life. They are paid three times a year, and receive extra payment for singing at the many weddings that take place at St John's. To allow them time to spend with their families, they are given one Sunday's rest per month and are not required to sing during half-term holidays or the summer break.
After Friday's practice there is a social club for the boys where they can play table-tennis, football and other games. They also regularly undertake trips and outings. Recently-visited attractions include Hollywood Bowl, The Foundry Climbing Centre, The American Adventure, Lightwater Valley and Alton Towers.
Boys' Choir practice times
- Wednesdays: 5.45 - 6.45 pm (Boys only)
- Fridays: 7.00 - 8.30 pm (Boys, followed by Choir Club until 9.00 pm)
- Fridays: 7.30 - 9.00 pm (Gentlemen)
There is an additional half-hour practice prior to each service.
Chamber Choir
The St John's Chamber Choir is a mixed-voice choir of ladies and gentlemen. A significant number of its members are students and there are strong links with the University. The Choir usually sings one service every two weeks (morning or evening) and also joins the Parish Choir for major festivals and special services. It also sings at weddings and gives regular concerts in Sheffield and further afield.
The Choir sings a wide repertoire to a very high standard. Music ranges from Renaissance polyphony through the best of the Classical, Romantic and twentieth-century repertoire to contemporary works, including some written especially for the Choir.
New members are always welcome and a good number of students tend to join at the beginning of the academic year in September. As the Choir sings a wide variety of music, some experience of singing in smaller choirs and an ability to sight-read are advantageous.
The Chamber Choir has a very active social life, with regular gatherings, trips and nights out. New singers are quickly made to feel at home and part of the group and we are always pleased to hear from prospective new members.
Chamber Choir practice times
- Wednesdays: 7.30 - 8.45
There is a 45-minute practice before each service.
Children's Choir
The Children's Choir has recently been relaunched. For boys and girls aged 6 to 13, this choir will sing a variety of music, both church and secular. It will appear at our monthly All-Age Services, as well as performing in concerts both in St John's and other places around Sheffield. If you are interested in joining please contact the Parish office on 0114 230 1199, or just come along to a Thursday evening choir practice.
Children's Choir practice times
- Thursdays 4.30 to 5.30 pm