Worship & Music
Music
Music at Christ Church
“Be joyful in the Lord, all you lands; Serve the Lord with gladness, and come before his presence with a song.” (Ps. 100:1)
From the beginning, Christ Church has always placed a high priority on music. The first choir at Christ Church was organized in the early nineteenth century. Christ Church purchased its first pipe organ in 1788—an organ which, at that time, was the largest in New Jersey. And more recently, thanks to the gracious and intimate acoustics of our 1853 nave, we have produced and sponsored countless musical programs as an outreach to the community.
In our music ministry, we strive for the following:
Excellence: adorning the worship of God with the best we can offer;
Inclusiveness: providing opportunities for all to join in a meaningful way and selecting music that lets all who listen know that they are welcome here;
Outreach: providing service to the larger community, often in partnership with those of other faiths;
Enthusiasm: being God-filled in our worship style.
We welcome all to join with us in this music ministry, whether by singing in one of our choirs, playing an instrument, offering non-musical program support (serving on the music outreach committee, hospitality, promotion, etc.), or raising your voice in praise with us in our worship services. More information can be found below.
Christ Church’s Choirs
For most of the twentieth century, choral leadership was provided by a choir of men and boys. In the 1970s, this was succeeded by a semi-professional adult mixed choir, along with a children’s choir of girls and boys in the 1970’s. By the early 2000s, the parish had as many as seven choirs. Christ Church now has two adult volunteer choirs and a youth choir.
Christ Church Choir
The Choir: A Musical Foundation
At the heart of Christ Church's music ministry stands our parish choir, where dedicated singers come together to create beautiful sacred music. While no audition is required, the ability to read music is strongly recommended for this ensemble. The choir leads worship at our 10:30 AM Sunday service, bringing to life a diverse repertoire that spans from Renaissance masterworks to contemporary compositions, gospel songs, and world music.
Our singers develop their craft through weekly Thursday evening rehearsals (7:00-8:30 PM during the academic year). Here, we focus on the artistry of choral singing—refining our diction, articulation, vowel formation, phrasing, and ensemble blend. The commitment to regular rehearsals allows us to build the musical skills and unity that make our performances meaningful.
If you're passionate about choral music and can commit to regular Thursday rehearsals, we'd love to welcome you into our choir family. Contact Suzanne to learn more about joining this cornerstone of our music ministry.
Gallery Choir
The Gallery Choir was created to highlight the rich Anglican musical tradition for organ and choir. This select auditioned chamber ensemble enriches our worship services several times throughout the year.
Musical Focus:
This choir specializes in the magnificent choral and organ repertoire of the Anglican tradition. specifically Music that showcases the blend of voices and organ,, showcasing our world-renowned Richards, Fowkes organ—one of the finest instruments of its kind globally.
Membership:
This chamber choir is drawn from both our congregation and the wider community. The Gallery Choir represents a commitment to musical excellence in sacred settings.
Performance Location:
The choir performs from our sanctuary balcony, creating a transcendent acoustic experience that honors centuries of sacred music tradition.
Children’s Chorister Program
Give your child the gift of musical excellence through our new Young Choristers Program, based on the renowned Royal School of Church Music curriculum. This distinguished program, with roots dating back to 1927, offers children age 9 and up a comprehensive musical education that goes far beyond just singing.
What your child will experience:
Professional vocal training and music fundamentals
Understanding of rich Anglican musical traditions
Fun weekly sessions with games and musical activities
Monthly participation in worship services
Connection to an international community of young musicians
When: Thursdays 4:00-6:00 PM during the academic year Who: Children 9 years and older Where: Christ Church, New Brunswick.]
While rooted in Anglican traditions, we warmly welcome children of all faiths who are ready to embark on this musical journey. The only requirements are enthusiasm for music and commitment to regular attendance.
Want to learn more about this exceptional opportunity for your child? Contact Suzanne McDonald at music@christchurchnewbrunswick.org or call 978-968-5122 for more details.
Open Choir
Join Our Open Choir!
Love to sing but can't commit to weekly rehearsals? The Open Choir is perfect for you! Whether you're a former choir member looking to return to music, someone who sings in the shower, or just curious about choral singing, we welcome all voices.
What makes our Open Choir special:
No audition required - just bring your enthusiasm
No weekly commitments
Simple rehearsal at 9:30 AM before the service
We meet once a month (typically the third Sunday)
This is a judgment-free space where everyone can experience the joy of singing together. No pressure, no stress - just come as you are and lift your voice in worship. First-time singers and experienced vocalists alike will find a warm, supportive community.
Open Choir Plus
Share Your Musical Talents!
The "Plus" in Open Choir Plus welcomes skilled amateur instrumentalists to showcase their talents during our Open Choir Sunday services.
If you play an instrument and would like to perform a solo piece with our choir, we'd love to hear from you!
For more information:
Contact Suzanne McDonald
Christ Church’s Music Director
Suzanne McDonald began her career as Assistant Organist and Choral Director at Christ Church Cathedral, Montreal, P.Q. Canada. After she completed her bachelor's degree in organ performance from McGill University she was awarded a full scholarship to study at the Royal School of Church Music, London, England. She continued her studies at Boston Conservatory of Music where she received The Dowell McNeill award and her Masters in organ performance.
She has studied with James David Christie, Peter Hurford, and Bernard Lagacé. She has participated in masterclasses with renowned musicians including David Wilcocks, Barry Rose, Christopher Herrick, Simon Preston, Philip Moore, and John Rutter.
Suzanne performed in cathedrals and recital halls in the States and abroad. Recently, during her time in New York City, she directed a professional chamber choir at All Saints Church on the Upper East Side. She founded and directed the Levy Choir School- a tuition-free choir school for children in New York of all backgrounds. Suzanne is committed to bringing new works to her audiences. The Levy Choir School premiered a composition of Blanket of Stars at a program performed with the United Nations Chamber Orchestra.
Suzanne contributes to the larger musical community by serving as a judge for the National Piano Guild and state festivals. As an organist, she served on the national conference committee for the Association of Anglican Musicians as well as participating with AGO and ACDA.
Christ Church’s Organ
Our current organ, which was dedicated in 2002, is a two-manual, 24 stop organ built by Richards, Fowkes & Co., and is considered one of the finest organs of its type in the nation. Apart from its use in leading our liturgies, the organ is also used by the organ department of Rutgers’ Mason Gross School of the Arts for teaching and practice and can be heard in concert. A photo, description of the organ, and specification can be found at the Richards, Fowkes & Co. website here. Click here for a full history of Christ Church’s organs
