Joining one of our adult choirs
We are always happy to meet people who are keen to join the Cathedral Choirs. Both the Cathedral Choir and Chamber Choir are currently recruiting for all voice parts. Please get in touch with our Acting Director of Music at email hidden; JavaScript is required
Becoming a chorister
We are currently recruiting for Boy and Girl Choristers. Do you have a child who likes to sing, or would you like us to visit your school? Please get in touch at email hidden; JavaScript is required
Does my child need to be very musical?
It should be emphasised that it is musical potential rather than actual musical ability that is being sought. Singing in tune, good behaviour and focus are the qualities the Director of Music will look for in a candidate.
What does the audition involve?
We accept applications at any time of the year. Boys aged 7-9 may audition, girls aged 7-11. Sometimes the Director of Music will hear children audition initially at their school. If interest is expressed then a more formal interview and audition will take place at the Cathedral at a mutually convenient time.
The formal test will involve aural tests and a prepared song of the candidate’s choice. If a child plays a musical instrument then we would welcome hearing one of their pieces on this. The atmosphere is friendly and designed to get the best out of your child.
If the audition is successful the chorister will join the choir as a Probationer for six months. If at the end of this period the candidate has made good progress and has passed the Probationer Test with at least 80% attendance (on time) to choir events, then full membership is awarded. After this, the chorister wears the white surplice at services and receives the annual scholarship
What are the benefits for my child as a Cathedral Chorister?
Our Music staff are professional musicians with extensive experience of teaching, training and nurturing young people. We train choristers in proper vocal production and music reading, nurturing performance skills and confidence. We aim to train them to pass at least Grade 5 Singing and Grade 5 Theory by the time they leave the choir. They will be encouraged to develop their confidence as individuals and as singers through solo singing during their time in the choir. In addition, after the initial probationary period (usually six months) each chorister is awarded a Choral Scholarship worth £200 per annum paid quarterly in arrears.
Does it matter which school my child attends?
No. Unlike many Cathedrals, Coventry Cathedral draws its choristers from schools within the city. Life in the choir is unquestionably demanding both for choristers and parents alike; but at the same time, parents gain satisfaction from the very close relationship they make with the Cathedral – one in which the whole family can share.
Being a chorister provides the chance to learn at an early age to work to exacting professional standards. However, a Cathedral choir is primarily involved in leading worship; and membership of Coventry Cathedral Choir is potentially, therefore, a means of developing spiritual, as well as musical, intellectual and personal gifts.
What is the commitment?
The purpose of the Cathedral Choir is to accompany and sometimes lead worship. We do expect regular commitment to both training, rehearsal and attending services as required. Choir Parents often group together to share transport and supervision responsibilities. It can be a good way for children and their parents to make new friends!
The regular sung services are as follows:
- Sundays
- Cathedral Eucharist at 10.30 am with a rehearsal from 9.00 am
- Choral Evensong at 4.00 pm with a rehearsal from 3.00 pm
- The Boys’ Choir and Girls’ Choir alternate at Sunday services i.e. Boys in the morning, Girls in the afternoon one week, switching each week.
- Wednesdays
- Evensong: 5.15 pm (Boy Choristers) with rehearsal at 4.20 pm.
- Thursdays
- Evensong: 5.15 pm (Girl Choristers) with rehearsal at 4.20 pm.
Weekly Rehearsals and Training Sessions
Practices for the boys are in the Cathedral Song School on Tuesdays from 4:20-5:30pm, Wednesdays from 4.20 pm to 6.00 pm and Saturday mornings from 9.00 am to 10.00 am. Practices for the girls are in the Cathedral Song School on Tuesdays 5:40-7pm, Thursday afternoons from 4.20pm until 6.00 pm and Saturdays from 10:30-11:30am.
