About the Association
Background
St John’s College Choir was formed in the 1670s to sing the daily services in the College Chapel during term-time. There have been a number of notable Organists to direct its music over the generations, including such eminent names as Dr Cyril Rootham, Dr Herbert Howells, Professor Robin Orr and Dr George Guest. The Choir rose to international fame under Dr Guest and maintained its position as a world-class choir under the direction of its previous directors, Dr Christopher Robinson and Dr David Hill. The College is delighted that Andrew Nethsingha took up the post of Director of Music in September 2007. Mr Nethsingha joins us from Gloucester Cathedral where he was Director of Music. Previously, he had been organ scholar under both Dr Guest at St John’s College, and also under Dr Robinson at St George’s Chapel, Windsor.
Apart from its liturgical commitments, the Choir broadcasts and gives a number of concerts both in the UK and abroad each year. Tours are a regular feature of its very busy schedule, the most recent being to the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Estonia, Austria, Italy and the USA. Since the late 1950s, the Choir has also been at the pinnacle of the recording world with more than 100 releases to date.
The Choir Association
The Association was formed in 1995 and formally constituted in 1997. Its main aim is to serve the interests of the Choir along with all current and former members of the Choir. The Association has charitable status in association with St John’s College. There are two categories of membership:
- Choir Members: Former members of the Choir (including organ scholars)
- Friends: People with an interest in the Choir and its activities
Structure
- President (the current Organist and Director of Music ex officio)
- Vice Presidents (former Organists, the Dean of College and the Headmaster of the College Choir School)
- The Committee (elected)
Management of the Association’s finances and activities is through the elected Executive Committee which meets formally twice a year. Committee members come from a variety of professional and business backgrounds and work on a voluntary basis. As a College Society, the finances of the Association are overseen by the College Bursar, to maximise the use of funds. All funds other than those used in general administration are used to support the Choir and its past and present members.
Objectives of the Choir Association
The Choir Association aims to:
- Promote interest in the Choir
- Promote the best interests of the Choir
- Disseminate information about the Choir
- Arrange occasional social gatherings for members and guests
- Facilitate contact between members
- Financially support the Choir and musical endeavours of its members, past and present within the resources of the Association and as approved by its members
Becoming a Member
Members of the College Choir can become members of the Association as soon as they leave. All current members of the Choir are automatically members of the Association, whilst they remain in the Choir. They remain members, at no cost, until they complete their full time education (up to and including their first degree).
Anyone may become a Friend of the Association by taking out an annual subscription. To find out more click here.