Is it compulsory to attend all six rehearsals? I have a prior engagement on one of the dates.
Attendance at six rehearsals is required. Rehearsals are taking place on different days of the week throughout the diocese. If you cannot make a particular rehearsal in your area in any given week, you are at liberty to join one at another venue on a different evening.
I am a competent sight singer. Do I still need to attend all the rehearsals?
Yes. Attendance is required at six regional rehearsals to qualify for a place in the choir. Competent singers can be especially helpful at rehearsals, supporting those who are less able.
How far is the ‘long walk’ on the morning of the Mass? I have mobility problems and cannot walk far?
At the moment, we only have very limited information about the arrangements for the day. We cannot confirm how far you will be required to walk - perhaps at least a mile and a half. However, we anticipate that there will be provision for those with mobility problems to be delivered to a ‘drop off’ point by a shuttle bus, leaving a walk of perhaps half a mile. Further information will be provided as soon as we have it.
How far will the choir seating be from toilet facilities?
There will be toilet facilities and access to drinking water reasonably close to the choir seating area.
Will there be any arrangements made for people to travel to the Mass together?
The Choir Organising Committee is looking into parking/travel arrangements for the choir. Items under consideration include having an off-site car park for choir members and clergy only, with a ‘park-and-ride’ arrangement being implemented and priority coach parking for ‘choir coaches’. We strongly recommend that no confirmed transport bookings with financial commitments are made until we confirm these arrangements, which we plan to notify to choir members shortly. Fortunately, there are a number of suitable locations reasonably near to the airport. We are also looking carefully at access for the disabled and people with impaired mobility.
Can I travel to the Beatification Mass with my family on the day?
Yes. There will be no privileged parking for choir members so you and your family can walk together to the venue from the parking area. Bear in mind that those singing in the choir will need to be there by 6 am. Your family may not want to get there quite so early!
