RSCM Training Program
Saint Francis Choir: Grades 1 & 2
RSCM Choristers: Grade 3-High School
For many young girls and boys taking on the task of becoming worship leaders and respectable choristers at such a young age is not easy. This is especially true in America where one can find numerous young singers who have talent and ability but have had little or no formal musical training. The young choristers at St. James respond to the challenges presented to them with exuberant pride and contagious 
enthusiasm. Few children’s choirs aim to master a large body of complex music and perform on a weekly basis. Both boys and girls accept a high commitment to serving the worship life of the Saint James parish. Challenged by singing with adult men and women, children develop a sense of accountability and become dependable members of a team. For many children this is their first experience of community and responsibility outside the family. The model adopted by Saint James for the children and youth music program is that of the Royal School of Church Music. Founded in 1927, it proves to be a sound education-invoking and religion-involving model. With the Royal School of Church Music’s Chorister Training Program in place, we provide our choristers with an education that encourages them to become fully human, to respect life, and to be religious in the broadest sense. Our extensive focus on the training of children’s voices reflects a primary commitment to musical education, spiritual formation, and evangelism. Here at Saint James, choristers are introduced to the world of great music—from classic hymns to Renaissance motets, Bach in German, English anthems, and Gregorian Chant. As does the RSCM, we adhere to the principle that all children are capable of singing first-rate music from the finest European and American traditions. Boys and girls age seven through sixteen qualify for membership regardless of musical background or religious affiliation. Membership is open also to the entire community and is much more than a typical after-school activity. Choristers do not have to know how to read music, but must attend weekly rehearsals at 4:30 on Wednesdays, be present on Sunday mornings, and sing in occasional extra concerts. Choristers are particularly busy around Christmas and Easter.
This choir rehearses on Wednesday afternoons from 4:30-6:00 in the Choral Rehearsal Room and other special times as needed.