Singer Finds Fulfillment in Easter Service in New Canaan

NEW CANAAN, Conn. – Ann Fuller is excited for Easter Sunday. In addition to the spiritual reasons, it will also mean another holiday to sing with her friends on the St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Choir in New Canaan.

“I feel joyous and happy and uplifted,” Fuller said about singing before the congregation on a holiday Sunday. “The music is always joyous, and uplifting and in the spirit of Easter. We have fine singers in the choir.”

And she’s one of them, having been a member of the St. Mark’s choir for 45 years.  Singing in church is nothing new for Fuller, who has sung since her formative years in Portsmouth, N.H. It was only natural to continue when she came to New Canaan. Fuller has sung alto since 1967. Her husband Alan, who died in 2010, also sang with the choir, as did her three children. She also plays the piano at her home.  

Fuller and the St. Mark’s choir will be joined by the West Point Brass Quintet for a special performance at both of St. Mark’s early Easter programs at 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday.

Brian Paul Thomas, organist and choirmaster at St. Mark’s for 14 years, said the combination of vocal and instrumental performance is special for the performers and the church members alike. “It’s grand because it’s when the church is at its fullest. St. Mark’s hosts 800 people, and we’ll see the building full at both services.”

Thomas added the combination of music is “splendid” and produces a great energy. “It’s like a reward for the work you do through the year, and you get to enjoy this on a big occasion,” he said.

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