The Choir of Robertson-Wesley
The Choir of Robertson-Wesley United has always been an integral part of worship. They sing everything from Byrd to Britten, Handel to Howells, as well as spirituals and newly-written material.
Membership to the senior choir is open to all high-school students and adults. Although no formal audition is required, it is requested that interested persons consult with the Director of Music, before attending their first rehearsal. New choristers may also join for a certain season. Choir practices take place on Wednesdays from 7:30-9:30 pm, and the choir sings at most of the Sunday services from September to June. Eight Sundays a year the choral music is provided by one of the Cantilon Choirs.
Special Services
The choir also provides music at several special services throughout the year, such as the Festival of Lessons and Carols, Christmas Eve, during Holy Week, and at other special events.
Section Leads
The choral programme at R-W also includes the addition of four or more section leads in each section of the choir.
Performances
The choir has performed at many special events including the CBC reading of Dickens’ Christmas Carol, at a Bach festival, Alberta and Northwest United Church Conference events, St. Stephen’s College convocations, have toured England, have sung at Carnegie Hall in New York City, and continue to include outreach amongst their ministries performing at care facilities for the elderly.
Hiring the Choir of Robertson-Wesley for Events
The Choir of Robertson-Wesley has performed in many weddings, corporate events, Christmas celebrations and at music conferences. If you would be interested in hiring the choir for your special event, please e-mail music@rwuc.org
Handbells
Robertson-Wesley has two groups of handbell ringers: Nova Bells and Robertson- Wesley Ringers. Both groups ring at church services from time to time and do community outreach as well.
Robertson-Wesley Handbell Ensembles, Fall 2024 Term
Robertson-Wesley is an affirming congregation of The United Church of Canada. We have a fine history of handbell ringing at the church and we are fortunate to possess wonderful instruments to make music with. You are invited to consider joining in one of our programs as described below!
Nova Bells – (a learning group)
When: 5:15pm – 6:15pm- Thursdays from September to November, 2024
Where: Rehearsal room (fully accessible) at Robertson-Wesley U.C.
Description: an all ages, ground-floor handbell and music learning experience
What you will learn:
-how to ring a bell and hand chime
-special bell techniques
-music reading skills and handbell music notation
-bells in church history
-beginning ensemble ringing
-set up and take down of the rehearsal area
-appreciation of handbell music and its uses in church
Requirements:
– Regular attendance
Robertson-Wesley Ringers – (a performance group)
When: 6:45pm – 8:30pm – Thursdays from September to mid-December, 2024
Where: Rehearsal room and church sanctuary at Robertson-Wesley U.C.
Description: a three-octave group for more experienced ringer/musicians – performs sacred and secular handbell music at church and in the community
What you will do:
-learn new handbell music in concert with other ensemble members
-participate in our church liturgies by ringing as a group on an occasional basis
-perform as a group at church concerts/talent shows
-do musical outreach at local hospitals, retirement homes etc. from time to time
Requirements:
– Regular attendance
– Previous ringing, singing, or instrumental musical experience
– Ability to read music
– Previous church experience is helpful but not essential
More Information? Dr. Allan Bevan, Director of Music: music@rwuc.org; 780-482-1587
Heritage
Handbell ringing has been a part of Robertson-Wesley for over 50 years! Originally introduced to the church family by music director Douglas Millson in 1966, handbells have become a popular fixture in our worship services.
Bells and Handchimes
The handbell choir is very fortunate to have the use of a 5-octave set of Malmark handbells, a 4-octave set of Schulmerich handbells, as well as 5 octaves of handchimes.