The Heavenly Rest Choir provides an important role in the liturgy on Sundays and special services by leading our congregation in song, and by offering choral anthems, psalms and responses. This semi-professional group of about 36 singers is comprised of some of the best vocalists in New York, plus a group of dedicated and talented singers. The Choir rehearses prior to and following the Sunday Eucharist.

An exceptional feature of the music program is the Candlelight Order of Service for the Evening, presented occasionally through the year on Sundays at 5:00 p.m. Members of the congregation have called the service "one of the most spiritually moving experiences of their lives". See the Music Schedule for a listing of services and music performed.

The talents of our youth play an important role in the parish life and future of Heavenly Rest. Our Music Ministry supports these talents and desires to participate with many opportunities for children and youth, from pre-K through high school.

This is a pre-choir, music activity for young children who are not yet reading.
It introduces them to basic musical skills through games, songs, movement, and art projects.
Children in Grade 2 who are reading should attend the 4:15 choir.

The children participate in the services on Feast Days and selected Sunday presentations, and can sing in addition on a weekly basis. Musical and vocal skills are developed during the year, incorporating musical games, art projects, rhythmic reading, etc. A modified Royal School of Church Music program is followed.

While boys are learning vocal excellence, they are also in a friendly environment where they engage in activities such as sports and ball games before and after rehearsals. Boys are given chances frequently to sing in services throughout the year. The boys learn games and exercises that develop their abilities to hear musical intervals, expand their tonal memory skills, recognize patterns in music, and sing in tune. They learn about correct body posture, breathing, relaxation, vowel formation and placement of voice.

The Senior Choristers follow the The Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) method of choral and musical training which focuses on corporate music-making. The RSCM program is graduated and geared toward musicianship and individual achievement. The Senior Choristers sing on Sunday Feast Days and participate each Sunday in the Choral Eucharists.

Our enthusiastic Bell Choir plays for Feast Days and special events. The unique sound of English handbells is a beautiful and joyous accompaniment to the liturgy when used with psalms and chant, random ringing, or in handbell repertoire. For centuries, handbells have been the "practice instruments" for change ringers in English cathedrals and parish churches. At Heavenly Rest they are a wonderful way to participate in the Music Ministry.

There is ample room in the liturgy to incorporate the talents of those who play instruments proficiently. Please let us know of your interest.

	Click here to see organ details

There are two pipe organs at Heavenly Rest. The Nave Organ at Heavenly Rest is one of the largest in the city, with a 5-manual console and over 8000 pipes. Its American Classic character adds support to the singing of the liturgy, including choral and solo anthems, hymns and repertoire, and is capable of providing orchestral accompaniments for large choral ensembles which regularly perform in the church. The organ in the Chapel of the Beloved Disciple is regularly used for weekly services, weddings and funerals. Complete descriptions, specifications and photos can be seen by clicking here.

There are many ways to actively participate in the musical life of Heavenly Rest! We welcome adults who are musically qualified to participate in our Choir. Young people can join the Children's Choirs, which use the Royal School of Church Music method of choral and musical training, and recognizes the continuing progress of the choristers with special awards. The Handbell Choir is open to adults.