Music at St. Thomas' Episcopal Church of Sanford, NC

Adult Choir
St. Thomas’ Adult Choir sings for the 10 o’clock service, supported by a weekly rehearsal. Choice of music is diverse, ranging from spirituals to the masters to contemporary classics. Numbering about 25 singers, the choir feels blessed to be able to offer musical gifts to the glory of God. Attendance is excellent, and choir members are diligent in their faithful participation. Worship music is enhanced by a custom built-to -specification Schantz organ, presented in 2000 by a parishioner who has constantly supported the music program of the church. There has been remarkable stability in the music leadership of the church. The choir director has served for over 40 years, and the organist, who travels faithfully from Raleigh to Sanford, is now in her 30th year of service.

Advent and Lenten Programs
Traditionally the choir has performed Advent music in both Lessons and Carols format as well as singing traditional and contemporary worship compositions.. During the Lenten season, at either a Maundy Thursday Tenebrae service or on Good Friday, the choir has sung works appropriate to the season. At both these bi-annual services the choir is accompanied by a ten-piece chamber orchestra.

Choir Retreat
Approximately ten years ago the choir began an annual, three-day, end-of–August retreat at the Trinity Episcopal Center located in the Diocese of Eastern North Carolina at Pine Knoll Shores. During the retreat choir members attend three rehearsals daily, working on music for the coming year, with special attention to music for Advent and Lent. In addition to music practices, choir members pray and play together, enhancing the high level of family feeling that exists within the group.