The Choir at St. Paul's Cathedral, London

Joining the Choir

All Saints' Choir is made up of adults (soprano, alto, tenor and bass) and children and teenagers, both boys and girls (trebles). We are always very happy to welcome new singers in all of the above categories. Children should be aged 8 and above. Previous experience is not necessary. The main criterion is that you love singing with others in a disciplined environment.

The Choir's standards are high – indeed we sing regularly in many of our great cathedrals – and so it is very important to give a regular commitment to the choir. Practices and services for the Choir take place every Friday evening during school term time, and there is a Parish Communion service every Sunday morning. There are evening services on two Sundays in every month.

Obviously we understand that it would not be possible to attend every single service or practice but we do expect an average attendance of at least 75%. Trebles below the age of twelve would not be required to attend more than one service each week and they would attend only the first part of the weekly choir practice, from 6.45 to 8 p.m.

It's important also for the trebles to attend on time for practices as they are structured, the first fifteen minutes or so being given over to training for the RSCM awards.

When a choir member has to miss a practice or a service it is important to let the Director of Music know as soon as possible. There is also a calendar in the choir vestry where forthcoming absences should be entered

Frequently asked questions

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.

Musical Experience:

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

Choir Holidays:

The choir does not sing during school holidays (exceptions are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Easter, and the Cathedral visit in the last week of July).

Choir Fund:

The Choir has its own Choir Fund which consists of spare wedding fees, donations, proceeds of fund raising events, etc. It is used for the choir’s general needs.

Financial:

Choristers receive a free musical education. There is no membership fee; all choir robes, ribbons and badges are provided free of charge. In cases of hardship it is usually possible to subsidise the expenses (accommodation and food) of 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. More can be earned by singing at weddings.

To contact us for more information or to arrange an informal audition:

• Email: info@allsaintschoirwokingham.org.uk,
• Telephone: David Jaques (choir secretary) on 0118 978 1990

or speak to the Director of Music, David Rance, after one of the services.