Milestone for St John's Director of Music

In March 2026 Elizabeth Trenchard reached a significant milestone. She has now served for 25 years as the Director of Music and Organist at St John the Evangelist Church, Cambridge. This not only involves playing the organ and choosing the music for services, but also leading the church choir of adults and children, coaching the young choristers for RSCM exams and planning occasional singing trips and concerts.

Since her arrival back in 2001, Elizabeth has been joined by her husband and two children, all of whom are now members of the choir. Her enthusiasm for church music is infectious:

“When I started at St John’s I was attracted by the fine pipe organ and the RSCM affiliated robed choir,” she says. “I soon realised that the support and encouragement of the clergy and congregation play a big part in keeping this choral tradition alive. We are so lucky at St John’s to have such talented singers in our choir, many travelling from outside of the parish to sing with us each week. On top of this we have good links with local schools and community groups and children who are keen to join.”

The St John the Evangelist Church Choir is regularly invited to sing in the area, for example Christmas carols at Wimpole Hall, or Carols on the Cam for Let’s Go Punting’s annual charity event. The Choir takes part in the annual Diocesan Choral Festival at Ely Cathedral and sometimes visits other churches to sing Choral Evensong.

Elizabeth says: “Together the sense of fellowship is amazing. During my time at St John’s the choir has sung at my wedding and the baptism of my children. It is a delight to be able to sing together as a family.”

The Revd Canon James Shakespeare, Vicar of St John’s, says:
“I am sure the congregation will join me in expressing deep gratitude, enduring respect and admiration for Elizabeth’s remarkable work at St John’s over these past 25 years. We fully appreciate the time and commitment she gives each week to ensure that the church’s music continues to be a vibrant and joyful part of our worship, and of the lives of those who sing.”

You can find out more about the St John the Evangelist Cambridge choir, and the welcome to new singers, both young and older, via this website link: www.stjohntheevangelistcambridge.org/Groups/403413/St_Johns_Choir.aspx.

 
Photo: Elizabeth Trenchard with her family at St John the Evangelist Cambridge