Music

Sacred music is not an accessory to worship. It is worship.

PEOPLE of faith have long recognised music’s power to draw the soul toward God. St John Chrysostom wrote that “nothing so uplifts the soul, gives it wings, sets it free from the earth, loosens the chains of the body, fosters true wisdom, and scorns all things of this world as concordant melody and sacred song composed in rhythm.”
Music belongs to this world, yet it draws the heart beyond it. It leads people into deeper truth.
At St Michael and All Saints, music is offered with skill, purpose, and reverence. Congregational singing, chant, choral music, and the sound of the organ shape the liturgy, giving it both structure and beauty.
This is music that asks something of those who make it and those who listen. It creates space to be still, to be moved, and to turn toward things that matter.

The Choir

ST Michael and All Saints is home to one of the finest non-professional choirs in the city. Under the Director of Music, and supported by a team of organists, the choir sings a wide-ranging repertoire, from Byrd and Victoria to Howells and James MacMillan.
One of the choir’s defining strengths is its flexible commitment. With no midweek rehearsals, singers meet for an hour before Mass, making it possible for those with busy schedules to take part. The standard remains high, attracting skilled singers drawn by both the quality of the music and the opportunity to sing with other talented musicians.
Repertoire for the choir is chosen with care—challenging, expressive, and deeply rewarding to sing. This is a place where singers give their full voice to music that demands and deserves it. Those drawn to this tradition find not just a choir, but a setting where their musicianship is valued and stretched.

For more information about joining the choir, use the contact form and select “Music” from the dropdown menu. →

The Organ

THE organ is central to the musical life of St Michael and All Saints. A versatile two-manual instrument with a moveable console, it offers both the refinement needed for accompanying small ensembles and the breadth of sound required for larger-scale repertoire.
Built in 1872 by Forster and Andrews in Scarborough, the organ was later rebuilt by Abbott and Smith in 1920 and Wood Wordsworth in 1966 before being installed at St Michael and All Saints in 1992 by Peter Wood. It retains the craftsmanship of its original builders while meeting the demands of a living liturgical tradition.
A team of experienced organists ensures that the instrument fully supports both the choir and congregational singing. They also give it a voice in its own right, whether through post-service voluntaries or the improvisations required at various points in the liturgy.

A Space for Music

BEYOND its role in worship, the church is also used as a concert venue, hosting a range of performances throughout the year. In addition to the organ, a fine 6ft Yamaha grand piano further expands the musical possibilities within the space.

Those interested in holding an event at St Michael’s are invited to contact the Church Administrator. Details can be found on the Contact Page. →

Mass Times

Sunday • 10:30 High Mass
A service with choral music, organ, incense, bells, and elaborate ritual Read more →

Wednesday • 11:00 Low Mass (Lady Chapel)

First Saturday of each month • 12:30 Rosary Mass

Celebrate

the Sacred Seasons

ST Michael and All Saints invites you to mark some of the most significant moments of the liturgical year with special services featuring glorious music from one of the finest choirs in the city, vibrant Anglo-Catholic liturgy, and preaching that speaks to the heart. Whether you’re a frequent attendee or joining for a special occasion, these events are sure to inspire.

Ascension Day

Thurs 14 May • 19:30

Forty days after Easter, the Church celebrates the Ascension, when Christ is lifted, body and soul, into heaven. A feast that’s uplifting. A tonic for a weary world.

Corpus Christi

Thurs 4 Jun • 19:30

A festival of splendour and devotion. Christ present among his people, with incense, petals, and a procession out into the street. You don’t see this every day.

Assumption

Sat 15 Aug • 16:30

One of the most widely observed festivals of the Blessed Virgin Mary around the world, kept in this corner of it with opulence and majesty. An enormously high Mass for for an enormously high feast.

St Michael

Tues 29 Sep • 19:30

Celestial music in honour of the commander of the heavenly armies, the patron saint of this church. The reception following this Evensong and Benediction is underwritten by the Choral Evensong Trust.

Advent Carols

Sun 29 Nov • 18:00

Advent begins with candlelight, choral music, and readings that hold the season’s sense of waiting and expectation.

Nine Lessons and Carols

Sun 20 Dec • 18:00

The service people mark well in advance in their diaries. Timeless carols and seasonal favourites gathered into one of the great traditions of Christmas.