Reviews

The Augmented Choir

Here is a review of the Augmented Choir's recent performance of The Crucifixion: A meditation on the Sacred Passion of the Holy Redeemer (Music by John Stainer and Words by John Sparrow-Simpson) during a Passiontide Service.

"A profound and deeply moving account of The Crucifixion by John Stainer was given in this splendid performance, revealing the work not as a modest Victorian relic, but as a work of sincere devotional power and enduring musical craftsmanship. With words by John Sparrow-Simpson, the piece unfolded as a true meditation, intimate, reflective, and profoundly communicative.

The thirty-two-strong Holy Trinity Augmented Choir sang with remarkable assurance and warmth of tone. Their sound was beautifully blended, yet capable of thrilling amplitude when required, and always attentive to the text. Particularly striking was the clarity of diction and the dynamic sensitivity brought to the chorales, which invited not only listening but genuine participation.

Indeed, the congregational singing, drawn from some 50 members, was nothing short of exemplary. Full-voiced, confident, and devout, it elevated the performance beyond concert into shared act of worship, precisely as Stainer intended.

The soloists were of a superlative standard. Tenor, Richard Phillips, delivered the Evangelist role with lyrical poise and expressive nuance, shaping each phrase with care and emotional intelligence. Bass, Paul Mocroft, brought gravitas and richness of tone, his arias resonating with authority and depth, never overstated but always compelling.

At the organ, Billy Colbourne provided a masterclass in sensitive and supportive accompaniment. His playing was both technically assured and musically insightful, underpinning the choir and soloists with a finely judged palette of colour and registration, and lending the entire performance a cohesive architectural strength.

Under the assured direction of Charles Pavey, the performance was expertly paced, allowing the work’s natural contours to breathe while maintaining a strong sense of forward momentum. The result was a deeply affecting and unified interpretation.

It is often remarked that too little of Stainer’s music is heard today; on the strength of this performance, that neglect seems not only unfortunate but wholly undeserved. The Crucifixion emerges here as a work of genuine beauty, sincerity, and liturgical potency, a reminder that Victorian church music, at its best, speaks directly and movingly to the heart.

This was, in every respect, a superb and uplifting occasion and a fitting start to Holy Week."

- Stephen Hartland, March 2026

Planning your Visit

A Warm Welcome

You are very welcome to come along and join us for any of our services. Here is some information about what to expect.

Where and When

We meet at Holy Trinity Church (details here) for our main Sunday Service starting at 10:30am. When you arrive, you will be greeted by someone on our Welcome Team who will be wearing a red lanyard. You will be given a service sheet and hymn book to follow the service.

Find somewhere to sit where you feel comfortable. Not sure what to do? Don't worry, we're all very friendly so please do ask.

Accessibility: There is step-free wheelchair access and parking available right outside the door. We also have a sound loop, large print material and different colour overlays available. Please let one of the Welcome Team know on your arrival and they will help you to get set up. We have an accessible toilet in the church.

Our Service

The service begins at 10.30am with a warm welcome to everyone. The service consists of hymns accompanied by the organ, bible readings and prayers. There is usually a sermon which is based on a bible reading that we've heard and that we can apply to our everyday life. During Holy Communion services there is an opportunity to receive bread and wine or a blessing. You are invited to join in with as much or as little of the service as you wish.

Please see our services page to find out more about all of our services.

After the service, you are welcome to stay for tea/coffee and biscuits. It is a great way to meet people and find out about all the activities that happen during the week. Refreshments are free, donations are welcome.

Want to see more?

Watch these short videos to see what a typical Sunday morning looks like at Holy Trinity.

Children & Young People

Children and young people are welcome to attend any of our services. We have a children's corner in church where younger children can play and colour during the service. We have some services which are particularly suitable for families (please see our calendar). We also have Creative Church on one Sunday afternoon per month during term time which is an informal service designed specifically for children and families - find out more.

Getting Connected

Groups

While Sundays are a great way to meet new people, it is often in smaller gatherings that you can really get to know someone. Coming to one of our activities in the week allows you to make new friends, share together and support each other. We have a range of regular activities happening throughout the year (see our Church Life page). We also run bible study groups and short courses at various times throughout the year - let one of our Ministry team know if you would be interested in joining the next one.

Serving and Volunteering

There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in the running of the church. This could be joining a team to help Sunday services run smoothly, helping with our work with children, or doing something behind the scenes like gardening and flower arranging. If you would like to volunteer your time and skills, please get in touch with one of our churchwardens team to discuss how you could help keep our community thriving.

Get in touch with us before you visit

If you have any questions, we would be happy to help! Click here to contact us.