York Minster is searching for three school girls, currently in Year 3, to audition for their world-famous choir. Children are not expected to have formal singing experience, but a love of singing is very much essential to the role.
If their audition is successful, children will receive a subsidised place at St Peter’s School, the choir school for York Minster since September 2020.
Choral music is one of the glories of York Minster: the choir, widely regarded as one of the finest cathedral choirs in the country, can trace its heritage back to 627AD and, more recently, has performed for King Charles III as well as featuring on BBC Radio 3 and Classic FM. Alongside high profile performances, choristers also have the chance to tour internationally, make new friends and sing alongside renowned musicians in the stunning setting of York Minster.
As well as a world-class musical education under the tutelage of York Minster’s Director of Music, Robert Sharpe, choristers receive an outstanding education at St Peter’s School, one of the oldest schools in the world and winner of the Times Education Supplement’s Independent School of the Year 2021. The Chapter of York, York Minster’s governing body, provides a substantial scholarship for each chorister towards school fees, with additional means-tested bursaries potentially increasing the level of funding to 100%.
The auditions held earlier this year resulted in a full complement of boy choristers, but three roles remain unfilled for the girls. Robert Sharpe, who is keen to make sure that the girls remain at full strength, said:
“We have three spaces still available for new girl choristers and I would urge parents with a musical daughter to get in touch. Being a chorister is a life-changing experience with focus on team skills, concentration, well-being and fun.”
Commenting on the opportunity, Jeremy Walker, Head Master of St Peter’s School, York said:
"I encourage any families of a Year 3 girl interested in this wonderful opportunity to apply to become a chorister. They would be joining an exceptional cohort of children, experiencing a lot of fun and friendship within the choir combined with an outstanding education at St Peter’s. I have first-hand appreciation of the incredible experiences this provides, as a former chorister parent myself, so would urge families with a child who loves to sing to consider getting in touch."
About the 2024 Chorister Auditions
Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Auditions for prospective choristers will be organised when applications are received and will be held at St Peter’s School, Clifton, York YO30 6AB.
For an application pack and more details, contact Sara Bath, Master's PA, on 01904 527391 or email s.bath@stpetersyork.org.uk
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