‘The treasure of sacred music is to be preserved and fostered with great care. Choirs must be diligently promoted, especially in cathedral churches’ Sacrosanctum Concilium 114
Boys and Girls voices in Cathedrals are a rich part of our heritage in the Catholic Church. There have been children singing at St Peter’s Basilica in Rome since the 6th Century, and in England country many foundations stretch their tradition back to the 12th Century.
St John’s is significantly newer than these foundations, having only been consecrated a Cathedral in 1976. There has not, since then, been a Cathedral choir of Boys and Girls singing Masses in the Cathedral. Since 2015, however, the Choristers have been singing regular Sunday masses, and their progress continues to impress.
We are always looking for Boys and Girls aged 7-16 who would like to join the Choristers in singing a wide range of musical styles. All choristers are expected to attend rehearsals from 4pm to 5:15pm on Wednesday evenings, and rehearsal and Mass from 10am to 12:15pm on Sundays during term time. Senior choristers also rehearse on Thursdays from 4pm to 5:15pm and music theory is taught during this time.
To arrange an audition, please email music@sjbcathedral.org.uk.