Hertingfordbury Parish News: April 2003
From the Organ Loft
Rev'd Rosemary has always entrusted to me the choice of music to be used in our services. Not only is the task a privilege for me, but involves special responsibility. For those not aware, it should be made clear what the attitude of the church is on this matter. Canon 29 - The Canon Law of the Church of England states: "it belongs to the minister to direct when the organ shall be played and when it shall not be played, to decide which parts of the service shall be sung, and to choose all chants, hymns, anthems and other settings, both the words and the music, with such assistance as he/she see fit to employ from persons skilled in music and liturgy. It is the duty of the minister to choose only such chants, hymns, anthems and other settings as are appropriate to the solemn act of worship and prayer in the House of God as well as to the congregation assembled for that purpose' and to banish all irreverence in the practice and in the performance of the same. The above Canon 29 was discussed at Canterbury in January 1949, and the following clause was inserted: &.where there is an organist and choirmaster, the minister shall pay due heed to his advice and assistance in choosing chants, hymns, anthems and other settings, and in the ordinary music of the church; but at all times the final responsibility in these matters rests with the minister." So that seems to set the scene for my duties - a partnership with Rosemary regarding the music. There are other very important facets to a good organist and choirmaster, which I will comment on at a future date. M.H. - Pulsator OrganorumPlease note: Although the Hertingfordbury Parish News is produced by St. Mary's PCC, the opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the PCC.