Ealing Abbey Plainchant Choir
Under the direction of Fr Peter Burns, O.S.B., the plainchant choir practises and performs the recommended chants for the Mass. These chants often go back centuries and are available for every Mass of the Church’s year.
What is Gregorian Chant?
Also known as plain chant or plainsong, it is the ancient music of the Western Church. It has an austere beauty and discipline that is especially conducive to prayer. The Second Vatican Council commended its continued use in the Church.
What is the Ealing Abbey Lay Plain Chant Choir?
Formed in 2010 by Jennifer Smith, it is now led by Fr Peter Burns O.S.B. We are a group of amateur singers who love chant. We sing regularly once a month at the 6 pm Mass on Saturdays, and on certain other occasions. We meet on Wednesday evenings in the Bulbeck Room. If you are interested in finding out more, you will be most welcome to come along and see if you would like to join us.
See their web page for further information.
But chant is difficult to sing?
Some chants can be difficult, but the basics can be picked up easily by anyone who can sing in tune. The notation is slightly different from conventional musical notation, with the use of square notes (neums), but is no more difficult to learn.
Ealing Abbey 14 April 2016 JL