Christ Church has a fine musical history, both in worship and concert.

The Choir

There has been a four part, traditional church choir in residence for the entire 150 year history of the church.  Today, the choir has approximately 10 members and provides traditional Anglican hymns and anthems in four part harmony accompanied by the pipe organ.  For festival occasions and special celebrations it is common for singers from other churches in Mount Gambier to join us.

The choir is affiliated with the Royal School of Church Music whose organists and choristers visit annually to inspire, encourage and share new music with us.

Our hymnody is based on ‘Hymns Ancient and Modern New Standard Edition’ and ‘Hymns for Today’s Church’.  The repertoire is supplemented by a range from other sources and attempts to integrate new hymns and modern wording with much loved traditional hymn settings.

Contemporary Music Group (CMG)

Christ Church endeavours to provide liturgical music of all eras and styles and to cater for the musical preferences of all ages.  The CMG is accompanied by piano, and other instruments when players are available within the congregation.  They lead music by Hill Song, Phil Wickham, Chris Tomlin, Petra, Maranantha and others.  Their musical style is fresh, modern and lively.  It accompanies and blends well with both traditional and modern worship.

Membership

CMG and choir are strongly supportive social groups.  They meet socially, practice and pray regularly.  New members are always needed and welcomed.  Vast experience and ability with music are not necessary, just the love of worshipping God with music.  See the contacts below for more information.

The pattern of music

Currently music during a 9.30am Sunday Service during a typical month would be:

  • First Sunday – Choir and organ with traditional hymn singing
  • Second Sunday – Shared music with both Choir and CMG present
  • Third Sunday – Choir and organ with traditional hymn singing
  • Fourth Sunday – CMG with music

However other Services or events may see changes to this.

In Concert

The warm and resonant acoustic of Christ Church and its mid-size as a musical auditorium make it a popular choice of touring performers.  The Cologne Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra performs annually and soloists perform occasionally.  Local music groups and music schools use Christ Church as a performance and concert space.

The fine Fincham and Hobday pipe organ attracts state, national and international organists who provide accompaniment for services and recitals for the whole Mount Gambier community.

Contacts

Choir and organ

Rick Fisher (Director and Organist) – 08 8723 1353

Contemporary Music Group

Robyn Ashby  (Director) – 08 8723 1353