Music
Welcome to the choirs of Trinity Church, an Episcopal (Anglican) parish
with a music tradition of joy and excellence in God's service. The Anglican choral
program, a vibrant part of the life of Trinity for more than 135 years and one of
the oldest in the country, seeks to participate in and transform worship through
the transcendent power of music. The choirs sing music from around the world
and across the centuries, from Anglican chant and canticles, to pieces by Thomas
Tallis, Johann Sebastian Bach, and the music of contemporary composers such as
John Rutter and Arvo Pärt.
The four choirs -- men and boys, men and girls, teen, and adult -- rehearse both
alone and in different combinations during the week, coming together each
Sunday in a rare intergenerational experience that finds children and youth singing
alongside adults, sharing equal responsibility, mastery and creativity. Through the
excellence of the program's many facets, its members are musicians who participate
in the fullness of Christian formation through leading worship.
Trinity's program offers intense, thorough musical instruction to young people, allowing them to bring
together musicianship, family life, academic studies, travel, and other extracurricular activities in a unique combination suited to each indivual. Rare in its depth and breadth, instruction for the boys, girls, and teens is base on the curriculum of the
Royal School of Church Music and builds the foundations of vocal performance: music theory, sight-singing, music notation,
and vocal technique. In acknowledgement of their developing professionalism and time
commitment, children and youth receive stipends for their work.
With music ranging from medieval chant to contemporary anthems, children and youth deepen their sense of history, liturgy, language, and art, as well as their ability to interpret both and music. Through the ongoing experience of learning and playing together, they also develop lasting friendships and a sense of belonging. Instruction balances warmth and humor with structure and attention to detail, nurturing the development of accomplished musicians and responsible young people who, as they grow to adulthood, understand what it is to be at the vibrant heart of worship.
Early in the week, the boys, teens, and girls choirs each gather separately in Ivy Hall, the 1840s stone building on Trinity's campus. Originally built for a short-lived law school at Princeton University and later the first of the university's famous dining clubs, the Ivy Club, Ivy Hall now houses Trinity's music department. With time to focus within their own age and ability range while under the auspices of the staff's professionalism and teaching excellence, the children and teens have the space to grow, ask questions, hone skills, and enjoy a strong sense of community.
The choir year begins in early September and ends in late May. After summer break, choristers reunite for choir camp, preparing the repertoire for the year to come as well as enjoying the community life that is so much part of the choir. Choir camp takes place in late August at Cape May, New Jersey. The choirs also take performing tours throughout the United States and Europe.
Trinity's music ministry includes organ recitals, a carillon, programs with the children of the Sunday School, and performance opportunities for choristers studying musical instruments. The choir program interacts with all aspects of the life of the church, including its outreach, evangelism, and Christian education and service. Further Christian formation is available to anyone who would like it.
If you are interested in the choirs and would like more information, please contact any one of our music staff directly.