Music News - February 2026 

December was a very busy month for all the music groups at St Mary’s. We must start by paying tribute to Kate Beare for all her incredible work, most notably for the tremendous commitment she has shown to Joyful Noise: not just a choir in its own right, but an essential tool in encouraging young singers to join the Junior Choir. Kate has worked tirelessly to prepare young singers with the musical and intellectual tools they will need in their progression to the church choir. We are extremely grateful to Helen Counsell who has agreed to take over the reins and continue the joyful noise of Joyful Noise.

The choir of Gonville and Caius sang at a well-attended choral evensong, broadcast by the BBC Radio 3. Readings by Vivian Falk and Hannah Razzell were delivered with mellifluous distinction. Thanks go to Peter De Vile for his Indefatigable work to maintain the organ and persuade it to behave impeccably for the broadcast. Undeterred by the solemnity of the occasion, the organ managed one high-pitched cipher, before Peter beat it back into submission, thus soothing the ears of any troubled Radio 3 listeners who might be reaching for the telephone to request a doctor’s appointment for tinnitus.

The Christingle service saw the joint forces of the Juniors and Joyful Noise perform to a packed church (see picture below). The annual service of Nine Lessons and Carols was a particular delight with choirs, brass group and violins all performing with aplomb.

The service was concluded with the annual SMMA Mulled Wine and Mince Pies. This event is held to thank parents of the Juniors and the Responsible Adults who ensure their well-being whilst at the church. Oli King thanked Jeremy Allen for his incredible contribution to the music at St Mary’s, as he steps back a little from his role as Assistant Organist. Thanks also went to Peter De Vile for his never-ending work in keeping our ailing organ from giving up the ghost. A final thanks went to Oli himself for his vision, musicianship, hard work and determination to keep music alive at the church for current and future generations.

The choirs were involved in three services on Christmas Eve. The 4pm and 6pm Tree Services were manned by the juniors, the adults and choral scholars. At Midnight Mass, James, the current organ scholar played Bach before the service and former organ scholar Elliot conducted the choir. A tribute to the fine musicians nurtured by Oil and Jeremy. A reminder for February. Choral Evensong will be held on the 8th, after which drinks and nibbles will be served. Please do come along!

Philip Sunderland

Photograph by Martin Hugall