‘The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art. The main reason for this pre-eminence is that, as sacred song united to the words, it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn liturgy.’ Sacrosanctum Concilium 112

Music is at the heart of the worship in the Church and there is an unbroken tradition of Choral singing at the Cathedral since it was consecrated.

Since the appointment of Bishop Alan Hopes, music in the Cathedral has been given an even greater role in the ministry of the Church. A new emphasis was placed on the reintroduction of musical traditions that had been unduly neglected following the Second Vatican Council, with a special place for Gregorian Chant in the Solemn Liturgy and the recitation of the Divine Office.

The Schola Cantorum of Lay Clerks and Choral Scholars was set up in 2016 to enhance the musical development of the Cathedral and provides choral music at the 11am Mass on Sundays during the year, for Christmas, during the Paschal Triduum and on other feast days. In addition, the Lay Clerks and Choral Scholars sing for Vespers and Benediction on Sundays, and for Vespers and Mass on Tuesday evenings.  

The Schola Cantorum is complemented by the Cathedral Choristers who are a mixed group of girls and boys drawn from the local area. The Choristers rehearse twice weekly and join the Schola for the 11am Solemn mass on most Sundays. 

The Cathedral also has an experienced music group who provide music for the 9am Mass on most Sundays.