The goal of this project is simple: To promote attendance at and celebration of Choral Evensong. Whether you are:

• New to a city and looking for a service of Choral Evensong
• Looking for a church home which values quality liturgy and music
• Wanting to increase attendance at your own services of Evensong

This map was made to connect people who value Evensong with churches that provide it. It was created in 2026 and is maintained by Gavin D. Craig, a Charlotte-area choirmaster and organist.

When this project is finished, it will include subscriptions for churches to list their own services of Evensong, both a blanket schedule and highlight of specific services.

Evensong is a service of sung evening prayer developed in the Church of England. Usually led by a choir, it consists of scripture, prayer, and music offered to sanctify the evening. It developed by joining the medieval offices of Vespers and Compline following the Reformation, and it is today a beloved part of the Anglican choral and liturgical patrimony.

Though individual variance is common, Evensong follows a set structure. The service begins with a set of opening responses followed by a large selection from the book of Psalms, all sung. Two lessons of scripture are read, each followed by a canticle, usually the Song of Mary and Song of Simeon. After that come more responses, a set of collects, and usually a choral anthem before some closing prayers. Though there are thousands of choices of music and many local customs, this core structure is the canvas upon which the service is painted.

Evensong is presented with a particular ear towards quality of repertoire and execution. Attending a service, one can expect to hear the finest choral and organ music performed with great attention to detail, as well as lessons and prayers which help us live into the annual cycle of the Christian year. The best way to understand the power of this liturgy is to find a service near you and experience it for yourself!

The Daily Office is the cycle of prayers the Church prays throughout the day. Like many religions, Christianity encourages frequent prayer, and the early Church developed a daily pattern of eight liturgies, which were simplified to morning and evening prayer during the English Reformation. The Psalms, hymns attributed to King David, are the heart of the Office, with the pre-Reformation Office cycling through them weekly and monthly post-Reformation. Although the practice can be as ornate as Choral Evensong, it can also be prayed by anyone in any setting. It can be found online in many places, automatically formatted for you, such as here.