The Cathedral Music Team were delighted to welcome 25 of our new choristers to their official first practices this week.
Following a series of successful chorister taster sessions and auditions in the autumn, places were offered to16 girls and 11 boys from the local community. Dubbed "the single greatest leg-up a child can be given in life" by comedian and actor Alexander Armstrong, who was himself a chorister at St Mary’s Cathedral Choir in Edinburgh, Chelmsford Cathedral aims to provide the same transformative experience.
Director of Music Emma Gibbins said:
“I was so excited to welcome lots of new choristers this week. I’ve been totally delighted by their enthusiasm and beautiful voices and can’t wait to see how the girls’ choir and boys’ choirs develop in the next few months. It’s such a privilege to work with talented youngsters and be part of their musical and spiritual journeys: I really hope that this will be the beginning of a life long participation in church music for every single one of them!”
Being a chorister not only provides free, high-quality musical training. The opportunity to perform at a professional standard alongside experienced musicians can also lead to enhanced academic performance through increased discipline and dedication, all while earning choir pay. Choristers also develop confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills in a supportive environment with children building lifelong friendships.
Our new choristers are singing for the first time this Sunday morning (22nd December) at the 11.15am service. Please do come along to support them!
