Classifying Church Choirs

Choirs play very different roles in various denominations and traditions. This article describes three different types of choirs based on their role in the worship service, commending an approach that integrates the choir's contribution within the structure of the whole worship service. Although written from a Reformed perspective, the insights found here have applications for all traditions. Choral Society The first type of choir is what I'll call the "church choral society. " This group works on some big anthems or on a cantata for special occasions. At first they sing only after the evening service in a special program; later, as part of the evening service; and perhaps eventually as part of a special service in the morning. The choral society is not so much a church choir as a choir made up of members of the same congregation who love to sing together. Anthem Choir The second type is the "anthem choir. " This group works faithfully on anthems, which are from time to time inse…