Interior of Washington Memorial Chapel

Washington Memorial Chapel is regarded by many to be the finest example of Gothic architecture on the East Coast.   In 19 FF, the Ambassador was greatly impressed by the beauty of the Memorial and called it "The American Westminster".   Adjacent to the Chapel is the Carillon Tower, completed in 1953, a gift of the Daughters of the American Revolution.   The Washington Memorial Carillon is the most frequently played carillon in the world.   While surrounded by the Valley Forge National Historical Park, the Chapel is private property, in no way connected with the park or the federal government. No one can doubt that many thousands of visitors are spiritually enriched by their visit to the Chapel.  Here, in stained glass, is the story of the rise of the Republic.   Overhead, in the Roof of the Republic, are the seals of each of the 50 states.

Washington Memorial Chapel Choir was founded in 1908, and functioned as a Boys Choir until 1970.  In 1978 the Boys Choir was re-constituted, and sang evensong services.   In 1986 the Choir of Men and Boys was returned to the singing of principal services of the Washington Memorial, and has continued since that date to expand its musical horizons.

Washington Memorial Chapel Choir

As the principal choir, it falls to the Choir of Men and Boys to sing regular choral settings for the Sunday Mass and Matins services, all regular Feast Day masses, as well as weekly Friday evensongs and regular Sunday afternoon evensongs.   In addition to these duties, the choir gives regular concerts, and sings services, usually evensong, at churches throughout the Greater Philadelphia area.

	The Choir tours abroad to the United Kingdom at regular intervals to take up the duties of daily services in residence at notable Cathedrals.
	The choir comprises 16 Boys and 10 Men.   Any Boys between the ages of 9 and 11 are invited to audition for a position with the choir.  All positions are salaried.   Please contact the office of the Choirmaster, either by telephone at (610) 783-5170, or by e-mail by clicking here: BKKunkel@worldnet.att.net.