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Music

Our parish has a long and rich musical tradition. We have been blessed with many gifted musicians and vocalists who add to the richness and diversity of our worship.

The first Rector of St. Andrew’s was an accomplished organist and musician, and from those early years the bar for musical excellence was set high.

New members are always welcome in the choir. All that is required is a love of singing. Choir practice is suspended for the Summer, and will resume in September, Check here for starting date and time. The Choir sings at the main 10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist on Sundays, and on other major feasts of the Church year.

Music Director

Matthew Gartshore

Matthew is a pianist based in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, where he currently teaches and performs in the Tri-Cities and Guelph. Matthew recently completed his Masters in Piano Performance at Syracuse University, where he had a full scholarship and TA. Prior to that, he graduated with a Bachelor in Music summa cum laude from McMaster University. Additionally, he holds an Associate Diploma in Piano Performance from the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto.

Matthew began playing piano at the age of five, although it was never the primary focus of his life. This changed when he discovered the great recordings of Horowitz and Richter as a teenager, which truly inspired him to pursue a career in music. Throughout his diverse musical career he has collaborated with many singers and instrumentalists in operas and chamber music. Locally, Matthew has performed at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Noon Hour Recital Series as a soloist and in collaboration with the soprano Jennifer Carter. He has also performed at the Kitchener Public Library and the Love of Music Marathon. Socially conscious, Matthew has given benefit concerts to raise money for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. The greatest influence on his musical interpretations and development can be attributed to his lifelong love of the performing and visual arts.

Matthew looks forward to supporting the musical life of the community at St Andrews Memorial Anglican and getting to know the members of the congregation better.

  • St. Andrew’s Church (neigbourhood)

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  • St. Andrew’s Church (greater Kitchener)

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