Mission Statement
‘To glorify God through the gift of music, enriching lives and spreading the Gospel.’
We give God thanks for the opportunity to minister to our congregation and collaborate with others in the growth of this ministry.
We seek the introduction of new hymns, service music and anthems sung in Classical, Gospel and Caribbean styles.
Music for worship services continued to be led by the Director of Music and Organist, Choirs, Soloists
and augmented by supply musicians.
Biography of our Director of Music & Organist
Davian Alleyne is a native of Barbados and graduate of the Barbados Community College and Herbert H. Lehman College (CUNY), receiving Associate and Bachelor degrees in music with honors, respectively. Mr. Alleyne has also been awarded various certificates in music performance from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and Trinity College, London and is a recipient of the John Corgliano and Diocese of Barbados Organ Scholarships.
Davian has extensively performed Classical, Jazz, and Caribbean genres of music, having recorded and toured the Caribbean and USA with ensembles such as; Saint Michael’s Cathedral Choir (Barbados), Myriad Singers of Barbados and 1688 Orchestra. He has been active in the music industry for over a decade as a Music Teacher, Vocalist, Organist, Saxophonist, Arranger and Band Leader.
Mr. Alleyne currently serves as the Director of Music and Organist of St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church, Brooklyn, New York and is an executive board member of the Brooklyn Chapter of the American Guild of Organist. This passionate musician is constantly pursuing a career with excellence as his hallmark and doing all things to the honor and glory of God.
Choirs
The Anglican Choir’s repertoire is modeled in the traditions of English choral music from the Baroque through Modern era, with emphasis on SATB Choral Anthems, Cantatas, Oratorios, Psalm Chanting, various settings of the mass, Spirituals and Caribbean folk music. The choir has an active roster of approximately 20 singers including: 4 professional SATB section leaders, experienced singers and amateurs.
The Gospel Choir’s repertoire is modeled in traditional African American, contemporary and Caribbean fusion gospel styles. The choir continues to grow from strength to strength, as their standard of performance has attracted new members and more request to perform. The average roster is approximately 12 choristers, singing in Soprano, Alto and Tenor sections. This type of choir in unique in the Episcopal Church setting and emphasizes the evolution of music in the church.
The Voices of Praise Youth Choir
was revived in September 2018. Currently its roster averages 10 children, who love to sing the praises of God. The youth choir performs on Youth Sundays, concerts and other Parish events.
Liturgical and Instrumental Music
Liturgical music of the church reflects hymns and service music sung in Classical, Gospel and Caribbean styles. Worship services are led by the Organist and Choirs, and frequently augmented by Drummers, Guitarist, Steel Pannist and Brass players on Youth Sundays, Christmas Eve, Easter Day, International Day, Fill the Pew Sunday and other major services.
The church boost of a magnificent 3 Manual Rodgers 960D model digital organ which is used as the primary instrument during workshop, along with a baby grand piano both located in the sanctuary.
Concerts
The music ministry is showcased at various times throughout the year. Past concerts included: The Annual Black History Concert, Palm Sunday Cantata/Oratorio’s, Christmas Concerts, Solo Organ & Piano recitals and guest solo / choral performances especially during the summer recess.
Music Ministry Committee
The Music Ministry Committee consist of duly elected members who assist the Director of Music & Organist with the logistical operations of the ministry, fundraising efforts and social activities.
Director of Music & Organist - Mr. Davian Alleyne
Anglican Choir President – Ms. Shirley Sealy
Gospel Choir President – Ms. Fernella Allen
Secretary – Ms. Velma Beckford
Assistant Secretary – Ms. Carmelita Smith
Treasurer – Mrs. Annette Tull
Assistant Treasurer - Mrs. Marilyn Codrington
Public Relations Officer – Vacant
Librarian – Ms. Estella Phillips
Assistant Librarian – Mr. Gerald Auguste
Assistant Librarian - Ms. Jazlyn Springer
Gospel Choir Chaplin – Ms. Margaret Mapp
Anglican Choir Chaplain – Mr. Nick Cox