Music is a unique ministry in the life of our congregation. Music of all eras is included in our services, performed at a high level of musicianship by our Choir, accompanied by organ or instrumental ensembles. Under the leadership of Music Director Mollie Nichols, our aim is to deepen the religious life of the community through music. To find out more about upcoming music events at The Church of the Heavenly Rest, have a look at our Music Schedule. Service leaflets may be found on the Media and Communications Page.
   
UPCOMING MUSICAL EVENTS and MUSIC SCHEDULE
To find out more about upcoming music events at The Church of the Heavenly Rest, please check the Music Schedule page.
   
CHURCH CHOIR
 

The Heavenly Rest Choir provides an important role in the liturgy on Sundays and special services by singing choral anthems, psalms and responses, and by leading the congregational singing of hymns. This semi-professional group of about 30 singers is comprised of some of the best vocalists in New York, plus a group of dedicated and talented singers. The Choir rehearses after the Sunday Eucharist.
 
CHORAL EVENSONG
 

An exceptional feature of the music program is the Candlelight Order of Service for the Evening, followed by a concert of sacred music, 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.
 
CHILDREN'S CHOIRS
 

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 kindergarten through high school, including intergenerational activities.
PRE-CHOIR (ST. CECILIA CHOIR)
Grades K–2
Tuesdays 3:30–4:15 pm

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.
 
JUNIOR CHORISTERS
Grades 3–5
Tuesdays 4:15–5:15 pm

This choir is specially tailored to those who are beginning to read music. 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.
   
CHORISTERS AND SENIOR CHORISTERS
 Grades 6–High School
Tuesdays from 5:00–6:30 pm
  Senior Choristers

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.
 
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PAGEANT
Ages 5–14
Presented on Christmas Eve at 3:30 and 5:00 pm
Rehearsals begin in December
 
   

Heavenly Rest's Christmas Pageant is a wonderful offering to the community. Orginally created by Janet Walker, the pageant now involves about 100 children and includes live animals! The Nativity Story is beautifully retold in scripture and carols by children who are cast in the roles of Mary, Joseph, the Angel Gabriel, The Three Wise Men, many angels, heavenly hosts, tumblers, and talented instrumentalists. There are a number of required rehearsals, starting in the beginning of December. Pageant alumni help with lighting, sound, props and costumes.
 
HANDBELL CHOIR
for High School and Adults
Mondays 6:45-7:45 pm
 

Basic music reading ability is needed. This group 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 an excellent way to participate in the Music Ministry.
   
INSTRUMENTALISTS WELCOMED

There is ample room in the liturgy to incorporate the talents of those who play instruments proficiently. Please let us know of your interest.
   
THE PIPE ORGANS
  Nave Organ in the Church of the Heavenly Rest - New York City
 
Click here to see a description of the organs

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.
   
HOW CAN I PARTICIPATE?

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 an intergenerational opportunity open to middle school youth through adults. Instrumentalists often participate in our worship services with their talents.
   

For more information about Music at Heavenly Rest
please contact Mollie Nichols, Director of Music,
at 212/289-3400, ext. 204,
or by email at mnichols@heavenlyrest.org.