Our chorister program provides children and youth ages 7 and above with outstanding professional choral training, music theory, leadership development, and abundant performance opportunities. We pay each chorister a stipend to underscore the seriousness of the training we offer. No previous musical experience is required, only an eagerness to learn, age-appropriate reading proficiency, and the ability to match pitch. We welcome a diverse array of choristers from all walks of life and varied backgrounds, and of any religious tradition or none.
Registration for the 2026-27 program year will open soon!
EXCEPTIONAL MUSIC
• Professional instruction in music for children ages seven and above, offered free of charge.
• An equal emphasis on training of the voice and music-reading skills.
• Children learn and sing a wide array of the finest sacred music, from the 16th century to the present day.
• Our choir is modeled on famous English choirs.
SKILLS FOR LIFE
• We teach more than just music skills; our training can be an essential part of the whole formation of a child.
• Each child receives significant individual attention in a stimulating, challenging, yet fun environment.
• Leadership skills are an important part of our program.
• Social activities foster bonding and strong friendships.
• Good Shepherd is affiliated with the Royal School of Church Music in America, part of a worldwide network that fosters excellence in church music.
BECOMING A CHORISTER
• As choristers participate in the parish’s worship, they learn about Christian faith and the Episcopal tradition in an environment that teaches God’s love for everyone and respects other faith traditions.
• Children may join at any time.
• Visit us for a rehearsal or service; contact Alden Wright for further information.
OUR DIRECTOR
• Alden Wright, Director of Music, is an experienced trainer of children’s voices, having experience in both the English and American choir training models and a depth of knowledge and enthusiasm for the music of the Church.
• He is a recent graduate of the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, where he completed his studies in organ performance and sacred music.
VOCAL COACH
• Famed versatile light lyric soprano Abigail Chapman is a soloist in opera, oratorio, chamber music, and art song, specializing in early and modern classical music.
• Ms. Chapman frequently performs with the finest professional choral and chamber ensembles in the Philadelphia and New York regions, including the Crossing and Opera Philadelphia.
• In great demand as a voice teacher, she holds the Master of Music Degree in Voice from the Peabody Institute of Music of Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore.
SCHEDULE
Choristers currently rehearse once weekly, on Tuesdays from 4:45–6:00 p.m.
Choristers perform approximately once monthly, either for Sunday Mass at 10:30 a.m. or Evensong at 3 p.m., an ancient service that is almost entirely sung.
TESTIMONIALS
A choir works together to make music and since everyone wants to sound great, everyone lifts each other up. — Chiara, chorister
In my time with [former director] Mr. McCormick, he helped me develop a love and understanding of singing and made me want to come to choir every day possible. — Nico, chorister
It’s mind-blowing to watch these kids work hard and rise to every occasion. The confidence and joy instilled in my children during their time with Robert has spilled over into every other part of their lives, and into our family life as well. — Emily, a chorister parent