Treble Makers is St Mary’s fun, friendly children’s choir, where young voices grow in confidence and joy.
Our choir gives children the chance to experience the joy of singing and performing together, and an invaluable grounding in music. With professional instruction from our Director of Music, children develop good vocal technique, learn to read music at their own pace and grow in confidence, not just as singers but in themselves. Along the way they make great friends and have a lot of fun.
Children can also work towards the nationally recognised RSCM (Royal School of Church Music) Voice for Life scheme. Alongside weekly rehearsals and regular chances to perform, there are choir social events and trips.
When we practise
| Day | Saturdays, in term time |
|---|---|
| Time | 10am to 11am |
| Where | St Mary’s Church, Church Walk, Bideford EX39 2BP |
| Cost | Completely free |
What happens at a rehearsal
- A chance to chat and catch up with friends as everyone arrives.
- A warm-up to get voices and bodies ready to sing.
- Learning songs, from simple short pieces to the music we will sing in church.
- A little music theory, introduced gently through fun visuals and games.
Singing at St Mary’s
Once a month, the Treble Makers sing at our 9.30am Sunday Service, at our Celtic Communion on the third Sunday. It is a lovely moment for the whole church family, and a proud one for parents and grandparents too. They also sing at special Services through the year, including Easter.
In August, the Treble Makers host our monthly St Mary’s Café, welcoming everyone in for tea, cake and a song.
Christmas with the Treble Makers
Christmas is one of the most exciting times of the year for our choir. Each December the Treble Makers:
- Sing carols at our Christmas Café, a festive morning of coffee, cake and Christmas music that is a highlight of the year for many.
- Take part in our Schools Christmas Carol Concert in aid of Christian Aid, singing alongside children from local schools.
- Sing at our Christmas Services, helping the whole church celebrate the birth of Jesus.
Keep an eye on our events and social media for this year’s dates.
Who can join
- Any child aged seven or over
- Complete beginners to confident singers: there are no auditions
- You do not need to be a regular churchgoer
- Membership is completely free
What’s the commitment?
- Weekly rehearsals on Saturdays in term time, 10am to 11am
- One Sunday each month at the 9.30am Service
- Special Services and events at festivals such as Christmas and Easter
Will my child be safe and looked after?
Parents are always welcome to come to rehearsals, though there is no expectation to do so. Our Director of Music, Chris Beechey, and any other St Mary’s supervisors working with the choir have enhanced DBS checks and have completed the Church of England’s safeguarding training. Read about safeguarding at St Mary’s.
Questions parents ask
Do children need to read music? No. We learn by ear with fun visuals, and music reading is introduced gently for those who are ready.
What should they bring? A named water bottle and bundles of enthusiasm. We provide everything else.
Can parents stay? Yes, you are welcome to sit in and watch any rehearsal.
What happens as they get older? Many young singers go on to join our main Choir as they grow in confidence.
How to join
If your child would like to take part, please contact the Parish Office at admin@stmaryschurchbideford.org or on 01237 472551, and your message will be passed to the Treble Makers team. If you have any questions about additional needs, access or anything else, please get in touch and we will do our best to help.
