From the first rehearsal to the closing hymn of Festival Evensong on Sunday afternoon, choral music of the highest quality lies at the heart of the New England Course. Throughout the week, choristers rehearse repertoire, practice vocal skills, and learn an increased appreciation for sacred music and its vital place in worship. New skills are put to use each evening at a daily service of Evensong. After a late afternoon rehearsal with the choristers, adults enrolled in the course participate in the daily service of Evensong. They then rehearse on their own prior to singing Compline each evening.
Adult participants are also welcome to observe chorister rehearsals held earlier in the day.
Although all participants are encouraged to enroll as resident for the duration of the course, those living within commuting distance may register as day students only. Day students follow the same program of rehearsals, activities, services and meals as do boarders. Whether or not they have choristers enrolled in the program, all choir directors are invited to enroll in the New England Course to take advantage of the opportunity to observe daily rehearsals and services. Of course, choir directors who are altos, tenors or basses are strongly encouraged to enroll as singers and enjoy the chance to be active participants in the full program. The New England Course is pleased to welcome Dr. Patrick Allen , Organist and Master of Choristers at Grace Church, New York, as Musical Director this year.