Be a Chorister for a Day

Those who have attended any of the services at St. Oswald’s Parish Church, Oswestry, cannot fail to have been impressed with the high standard of singing from the young choristers who make up the top line of the choir.

What is it that makes our choristers so special? Mike Donkin, Director of Music at St. Oswald’s Church says, “They are just ordinary young people from a range of backgrounds who are united by their love of music and singing.

“The Royal School of Church Music understands the need to nurture young voices and has many years of experience in the natural development of the voice which is why its ‘Voice for Life’ scheme is so good.

“We are so convinced of the value of the ‘Voice for Life’ scheme that we are offering young people

We the chance to try it out for a day. We will be holding an event called ‘Be a Chorister for a Day’ on Saturday 30 September, finishing with the participants singing with the choristers in the Parish Church for the Harvest Festival service on Sunday morning, 1 October.”

The day will run from 10.30am to 4.00pm and start with a session for parents and children to hear about the scheme and then move on to sessions on producing a good voice, breath control, basic musicianship and learning some music for the Sunday service. Participants will also be given a tour of the church, a demonstration of the Organ and a trip up the tower with a demonstration of Bell Ringing.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided throughout the day and the event will close with a rehearsal with the St. Oswald’s Choristers in preparation for the next day. There is no charge for the day.

Anyone wishing to enrol a child on the day or just wanting further information should contact Mike Donkin, Director of Music on 07779 917724 or via email at michaeldonkin44@gmail.com or visit www.stoswaldsoswestry.org.uk

Parish Church of St. Oswald, King & Martyr, Oswestry A ChOriSTer fOr A DAy

Be A Chorister For A Day

A fun day for boys and girls from 8 – 14 who enjoy singing and want to learn more about the voice and music. A chance to experience the Royal School of Church Music’s Voice for Life training and to sing at the Sunday Harvest Festival Saturday 30th September 10.00am – 4.00pm and Sunday morning 1st October

Opening session for parents and children. Parents may stay for the day as observers. As well as singing there will be a tour of the church with a trip up the bell tower and an opportunity to look at, and perhaps have a go on, the organ.

September Oswestry Events

Charity Market

Friday 1 September

Working closely with community supporters The Qube, Oswestry Markets host a charity market on the Bailey Head aimed at raising important funds and awareness for a wide number of local charities.

Culturefest

Saturday 9 September

Cross Street. Celebrating culture with art and dance. 10am – 3pm. Free event.

Heritage Open Days from the 8th to the 17th September Oswestry celebrates the 10 days of the festival with a unique programme of free events and visits. Visit www.oswestrytownmuseum.co.uk