REVERB has been in the planning for 5 years, the next step on the musical pathway at St Michael’s. In 2024 everything aligned and it was the right time for us to launch a new high school singing venture which would become REVERB. We were conscious that this group, although related to Sing Praise, would need to find their own voice and grow organically. We were fortunate that Ben Vonberg-Clark had just finished as Musical Director of a church in West London during which time he had built a large choir with many young people. We were delighted he agreed to be our first Musical Director.

The vision for this group is to enable young people to encounter beauty through music - exploring melodies and harmonies that have the power to lift the spirit in a challenging world. With so many expectations placed on young people, particularly in academic life, it is vital to remind them that life is richer and broader than achievement alone, and to offer experiences that genuinely gladden the heart. This inner space is the home of the soul and the playground of the spirit. Within it, young people are given the freedom and permission to become more fully themselves.

This mystical experience is by its very nature religious, and to ground it in a church community gives us a chance to speak the whispers of eternity into the often-claustrophobic present. Our funding rightly requires REVERB to be open to all, regardless of religious affiliation. This is an important principle, as it reflects the inclusive hospitality that lies at the heart of our life as a church community. To offer a warm welcome, plentiful refreshment and a sense of community as a gift is very valuable in our world today.

What we have seen over the last fourteen months is the capacity of music to build relationship: to transcend age groups or generational boundaries. Under Ben’s unique directorial style an able choir has emerged. We have seen confidence build and personalities shine and flourish. To be able to facilitate this is a privilege. Everything that underpins this work speaks of the God of love and the values of the Kingdom, and through the Gatherings, young people are finding a language to help express both the joys and the challenges of life.

I am deeply grateful to Ben for his inspirational leadership, to Anna Winstone for her tireless co-ordination, and to Mary, Peter, Edith and Caroline, whose commitment enables us to do so much and to do it safely. I look forward with excitement to the next twelve months - to growth in its many forms, and to rejoicing in the power that underpins it all.

The Rev Christopher M. Davey, Rector of Framlingham.

See the recent full report of REVERB here:-

Reverb-first-report2.docx