St Paul’s, Manuka, has a strong and active musical tradition, providing for the liturgical needs of the parish as well as contributing to Canberra’s wider musical life.

The work of the choir and the organists forms an important contribution to the life of St Paul’s. The choir’s major commitment is to the weekly Choral Eucharist at 10am each Sunday, and to Evensong at 5pm on the first Sunday of each month. Services are also enhanced through the participation of brass, strings, harp and other instrumentalists.

In addition, many concerts are held at St Paul’s throughout the year by renowned performers and ensembles from Canberra and interstate.

St Paul’s Choir

The St Paul’s Choir sings on Sundays at the 10am Choral Eucharist, and5pm Choral Evensong on the first Sunday of the month. The choir also plays a major role in other liturgical events throughout the church’s year, including the renowned Carols in Manuka.

The choir sings a wide variety of music including psalms, communion settings, canticles and anthems, and leads the congregation in a fine selection of hymns. The style of repertoire is varied, ranging from plainsong and polyphonic music settings to inspiring contemporary works. The turnover of music is fast so there is never a dull moment.

The choir rehearses on Thursday evenings from 5.45-6.45pm, and on Sundays at 9.00am. Although the choir is not formally auditioned, good sight-reading and ensemble skills are highly beneficial. Many current members are highly experienced and from a variety of musical backgrounds.

Singing in a liturgical choir is a rewarding experience, offering the chance to:

• explore the great works of sacred music in the context for which they were written
• develop sight-singing, teamwork and ensemble skills
• develop vocal skills in a supportive environment
• experience the joy of music-making in a group context

Membership is open to people of all faiths and none. Diversity of background and experience is welcomed and celebrated amongst its members, and throughout the parish.

The choir is affiliated with RSCM Australia (ACT)

Director of Music

Matthew Stuckings commenced as Director of Music at St Paul’s in December 2013 after 10 successful years in a similar position at All Saints, Ainslie (ACT). He is director of the renowned Canberra chamber choir, Igitur Nos, and has conducted and sung with many major Australian choirs. His passion for the sacred choral tradition has seen him take opportunities to study in Australia and the UK, most recently in York Minster. He is a special collections librarian at the National Library of Australia.

Please direct all enquiries regarding music, choirs and concerts at St Paul’s to:
Matthew Stuckings, Director of Music
Phone: 0404 136 959
Email: matthew.stuckings@gmail.com

Organists

Christopher Erskine SC

James Porteous

Mary Anne Neilsen

Arts Foundation

Musical activities at St Paul’s are supported by the St Paul’s Arts Foundation, which has status as a tax-deductible gift recipient. Donations can be made by cheque to ‘The Parish of Manuka Arts Foundation, PO Box 3417 Manuka 2603’ or by electronic transfer- please email office@stpaulsmanuka.org.au for details.