About us

 

What is West Gallery music? In the days before church organs became commonplace, churches would rely on locals bringing their instruments to church to accompany singers who would perform from the gallery in the western end of the church. These were not professional singers and musicians but farmers, tradesmen, and anyone who could play a little. The music is traditional, often named after specific villages from which it came. It’s quirky, different and sung usually in four parts with beautiful harmonies; it’s what church music used to be.  Here are two videos of Broadwindsor Gallery Quire at rehearsal:

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Shepherds Rejoice

Dorset Four-hand Reel (band only)

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The website for the West Gallery Music Association provides a treasure trove of information about the history of the music; look under the ‘articles’ section if you would like to learn more. You will see that there are west gallery quires all over the nation.