This was a most successful day. Miles Quick from the RSCM led with tremendous energy and imagination. He introduced the Taizé concepts and ideals; there was also had a copy of the Taizé cross on display thanks to Rev James Reveley (RSCM Committee Member and vicar of St Andrews, Bedford). Miles also drew the distinction with the Iona community and its music (primarily of John Bell).
In addition to the published material from Taizé and Iona, a number of delegates took up the request to write their own Taizé style chants (selecting their own words).
Another significant aspect of the event was that it was the first event promoted jointly by EHCCA and the local RSCM Area (St Albans, Hertford and Bedford).
Around 30 people were in St Mary’s, Ware for the day including a number of instrumentalists (guitars, clarinets, oboe, trumpet, violin) some of the younger generation. The singing and playing was of an impressively high standard. The workshop closed with an act of worship that drew the strands of the day together (including two of the chants composed that day) with all participants involved and a few people joined us in the congregation.
Details published before the day:
Come and join us for an inspiring day looking at music from the remarkable communities of Taizé and Iona. This simple and deeply spiritual music suits groups small or large using voices and/or instruments – please bring either or both – and different church situations. We will even write our own! Please bring a packed lunch, hot drinks will be provided for a small contribution. This is a joint event with the East Herts Church Choirs Association (EHCCA). The event will be led by Miles Quick, the RSCM’s Head of Congregational & Instrumental Music.
When? Saturday June 8th 2019 10am – 5pm. The day will finish with a service starting at approximately 4:15pm. Anyone is welcome to attend just the service.
Where? Ware – St Mary’s Church, High St, SG12 9BA.
Pay and display car parking is available opposite the church in Burgage Lane, SG12 9XD – entrance next to the Brewery Tap at the northern end of the High Street. Other car parks are also available.
The best way into the town from the south is straight up the A10 to the junction just north of the viaduct, and the next beyond Hertford, signed STEVENAGE. At the top of the slip road turn right. This takes you down into the northern end of the town (and the tower of the church may be clearly seen from halfway down the hill.) At the bottom, bear left at the first roundabout, then right at the large roundabout a few yards further on. The entrance to the public car park is about 250 yards down Baldock Street on the right.
What to wear? Wear comfortable clothes. We will not wear robes.
What to bring? Bring a packed lunch. Instrumentalists (grade 5 and above) should bring their instrumentand a music stand. Guitarists are welcome; they should expect to play melodies and not just chords. Bring your payment. The cost is £3 per adult; schoolchildren are free. Anyone bringing children (under 18s) who are not their own should bring Parental Consent Forms.
The closing date for applications from instrumentalists is Wednesday May 29th. This is to allow time for parts to be written for the instruments. Note that instrumental parts will mostly assume a minimum standard of grade 5; however there will be opportunities for those below that standard to play or, at other times, to sing.
You can download the Application Form here! or as docx here!