YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Musical Education:

The choir is affiliated to the Royal School of Church Music and operates the RSCM Chorister Training Scheme. Choristers are tested frequently and pass through the various grades from Probationer to Senior Chorister, and eventually Bishop’s Chorister. Each grade is awarded a different coloured ribbon to be worn with the Chorister’s badge. The range of music sung is diverse and stretches from that of the great Tudor composers to the composers of the 20^th and the 21^st centuries.

Musical Experience:

Previous musical experience (although obviously of advantage) is not necessary.

Commitments for Choristers:

Initially, one weekly practice; the new choristers will be asked to sing for a service once a month; when the choristers have made some progress, we would like them to sing in services on a weekly basis. If other commitments make that difficult, we will find a compromise.

Choir Holidays:

The choir does not sing during school holidays (exceptions are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Easter).

Financial Commitments:

Choristers receive a free musical education. There is no membership fee; all choir robes, ribbons and badges are provided free of charge. Usually there is a reasonable amount of money (reduced fees are possible) to be paid towards the expenses (accommodation and food) for the Cathedral week. Outings are paid for by the Choir Fund.

Pocket Money:

Choristers receive a small amount of pocket money each quarter based on their attendance. Some more pocket money can be made by singing for weddings (£2 - £4 according to experience).

Choir Fund:

The Choir Fund is the Choir’s own money, consisting of spare wedding fees, donations, fund raising events, concerts etc.; it is used for the choir’s general needs.