In an Abbey ‘the choir’ is all of the monastic community. For centuries, in cathedrals such as Durham and Worcester and in monasteries such as Reading and St Alban’s, alongside the monastic choir there have been choral groups consisting of both clerical and lay members and completely lay choirs. Some of England’s most famous musicians, such as Cornysh and Tallis, were involved in such choirs.

These lay choirs contributed, and, in many places continue to contribute to the sung liturgy of an abbey church. The Douai Abbey Singers are the lay choir of Douai Abbey. Since their formation in 1990 they have made their contribution to the music of the liturgy in the Abbey Church.

The Douai Abbey Singers are some twenty-five in number. The members include all ages from those at school though to those of more mature years, including both professional and amateur singers. The standard of performance is high and members are expected to be able to read music well, and to prepare their music thoroughly before each rehearsal.

Normally there is only one rehearsal, at 9.30am, prior to the singing of Mass at 11am.

On two occasions each year, the mid or last Sunday of Advent and Good Friday evening, the Singers perform seasonal music to which the monks add their reflections on the texts which have been sung. These spiritually fulfilling occasions are always well-attended and much appreciated.

Music sung ranges from plainchant, through 16th century polyphony, baroque, classical and romantic, as well as contemporary liturgical music. The choir has had a number of commissioned works, since performing music of contemporary composers is a matter of vital importance for the future of church music.

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Music at Forthcoming Liturgies

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The Singers have made a CD, ‘Music at Douai’ (Herald HAVPCD 285) which exemplifies its repertoire.

The Douai Abbey Singers have sung High Mass twice recently in Notre Dame, Paris, and sing Mass each year in Westminster Cathedral.

Application to join the Douai Abbey Singers should be made to the Director, Dr John Rowntree (01635-44630) Young singers especially those with good youth or school choir experience are welcome, as are local students. Choral scholars home in university and college vacations are also welcome. The Douai Abbey Singers are a friendly group of musicians – a sense of humour is also a vital ingredient!