Interview with Martin Barry, director of music at Salford Cahtedral, who will be singing in the choir at the Hyde Park Vigil

What was the selection process for you involvement?

The diocese was approached by the organisers of the event and asked to provide singers; it all happened at very short notice! So Fr Manock, who organises liturgy in the diocese, came to me and asked if I could find singers from the cathedral choir at short notice. So I sent a message round and nine of us volunteered to take part in the event.

Is this the biggest musical event in which you have been involved?

I think I've sung in bigger choirs. It's only three hundred for the Hyde Park event, but it's certainly the most important!

What are your feelings on the choice of music for the event?

I'm a bit in the dark! I know that we're singing the 'Alleluia Chorus' because we were asked to bring copies and that's a fun sing, especially for a big choir! I know that we're singing some music from Taizé, because the selection requirements involved being able to read the harmonies. I don't know what else we're doing, I assume there's more than that! So I'm looking forward to finding out.

What will your role on the day be?

Again, I'm waiting to find out in detail! We've got rehearsals lined up for a few days before the event and we have to be there for quite a long day in Hyde Park, but I'm sure the main job is to lead the singing in the event.

Do you have any concerns about your involvement?

No, I'm looking forward to it! I think you have to be prepared for a long day and lots of waiting around, especially during rehearsal time and preparation time. But for the day itself I'm looking forward to it!

What personal significance is this to you?

The Pope is the focus of unity in the Church and the fact that he is coming here will mean we can celebrate that unity. The service itself will include Exposition and Benediction, so it's not just in the presence of the Pope, but in the presence of Our Lord himself, a real celebration.

Interview with Jess Taylor