Parish of Manuka South Canberra
Parish of Manuka Arts Foundation
The Parish of Manuka Arts Foundation was established as an autonomous charity in 2000. Its purpose is the provision of money, property or other benefits that are for the enhancement of the artistic or cultural life of the Parish and the community it serves, particularly through the support of:
- Choral and instrumental music
- Crafts
- Painting and Sculpture
- Drama, Poetry and Literary works
St Paul’s is pre-eminent in Canberra for its tradition of Anglican liturgical music. The parish’s choir is of a very high standard and its flourishing Children’s Choirs Programme is a unique offering in Canberra.
In addition to the regular presentation of quality sacred music Sunday by Sunday, major works of the sacred repertoire are presented throughout the liturgical year in their liturgical contexts and in concert settings. There are also frequent collaborations with other Canberra-based choral and musical groups enrich the Parish’s musical life.
The new Centre for Sacred Music will provide rehearsal studios, music library, performance hall, green room, exhibition space, ante-room and administrative/work spaces to support the fine tradition of choral and church music at St Paul’s, as well as musical performances and activities of other community groups.
We invite you to support this exciting initiative by making a tax-deductible donation.
Direct Transfer:
Cheques Payable to the Parish of Manuka Arts Foundation: PO Box 3417 Manuka ACT 2603
Donate online
The St Paul’s Manuka Building for Our Future project is a legacy project that will live on for decades to come. Would you partner with us in building the New Centre for Sacred Music through the Parish of Manuka Arts Foundation?
Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible in Australia.
Donations to the Future Building Fund can be made via the form below.
All online donations will receive an emailed receipt.
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.
Our choral programme involves the Parish Choir, the Children’s Choirs and the St Paul’s Singers.
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 9.30am Eucharists (2-3 times per month), weekly Evensong at 5pm (except January). Services are also enhanced through the participation of brass, strings, harp and other instrumentalists from time to time.
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 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.
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)
The St Paul’s Singers
Established in 2022, the St Paul’s Singers is an informal choral group which leads the singing at the 9.30am Eucharist on the third Sunday of the month. This is an inclusive ensemble where the ability to read music is not required.
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