When St James’ Choir was first established, some of its members were convicts.  In more recent times, the choir has dispensed with the criminal classes and become a professional choir, composed of a band of musicians of the highest musical calibre and conviction.

Indeed, it is often said, at least in church music circles nowadays, that St James’ Choir is one of the best church choirs in Australia.

To sing the Eucharist, week by week, is both the St James' Choir’s long established tradition and ongoing duty.  As it was in the 1820s, so it is now; the Choir of St James’ is at the heart of the worshipping church.

The choir's liturgical repertoire is varied and challenging. Singing in its genre but outside the liturgical context, the St James’ Choir has received critical acclaim for flawless performances of difficult works.

In order to maintain any tradition, generation after generation has had to confront the challenges of the day.  Unlike convicts, modern day choristers must be paid for their labours.

To ensure the future of the choral tradition at St James’, financial considerations must be faced.  In this way, the musical tradition of liturgical worship can be guaranteed into the new Millennium.

The St James’ Music Foundation has therefore been established, aiming to:

• Maintain and support the St James’ Choir
• Make St James’ Church a prime music venue.
• Establish St James’ Church as a venue for excellent organ music.
• Enable the musicians of St James’ Church to take up opportunities for outside performances, creating a wider audience for its musical tradition.
• Establish a position of Administrator to promote our musical aims. 
• Fund the ongoing expansion of the St James’ Choir music library.
• Commission new liturgical works.
• Budget for the rebuilding of the St James’ Organ.

(The St James’ Music Foundation may also be included as a beneficiary in a person’s will).