DIRECTOR OF MUSIC – Syd Birrell
Syd’s CV is multifaceted and dynamic. Born in Sarnia, ON, he began his musical career as a young chorister at St. George’s Anglican Church in Montreal. He studied at the Royal School of Church Music in London, England, and at the Royal College of Music. Syd is a Fellow of the Royal College of Organists.
Read more about Syd by clicking HERE.
Senior Choir – under the direction of Syd Birrell
The senior choir leads the music at the 10:30am service every Sunday. Rehearsals are held Thursday evenings from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm in the Sheppard Auditorium. Occasionally extra rehearsals help us to prepare for the Festival Seasons of the church year. On most Sunday mornings the Senior Choir sings an anthem.
Membership in the choir is open to anyone who likes to sing. Reading music is helpful, but not essential. Rehearsals involve warm-ups and instruction for improving vocal technique. You do not have to phone ahead or audition. Arrive a few minutes early on a Thursday evening so that a music packet can be put together for you.
Instruments of Worship
ORGAN
The organ began as a Warren and was rebuilt by Casavant. The quality of the service is enhanced by the excellent acoustics and one of the finest pipe organs in this part of Ontario.
CHIMES
The bell-tower chimes have been an important feature of St. Peter’s since the early days of the last century. They were installed in 1905 to celebrate the Jubilee of the present building and to serve as a memorial to several past members. Due to structural weaknesses in the tower, the chimes are not in use at this time, but repairs to the tower are coming later in 2023, after which the chimes will ring out once again.
Other
We have adult handbells, an excellent piano, and a lovely harpsichord for playing music.
