The Norwich Cathedral Girls’ Choir was established in 1995 to enhance the musical life of the Cathedral and offer girls the opportunity to become part of the Cathedral’s choral tradition. The Norwich Cathedral Girls’ Choir currently comprises about twenty girls between the ages of eleven and eighteen. All the girls are talented singers and come from many different schools in Norwich and beyond.
Responsibilities and benefits
The girls sing with the Lay Clerks and Choral Scholars at services every Tuesday, on certain Sundays, at Ordinations and Confirmations, and for the feasts of Christmas and Easter. The girls rehearse every week on Tuesday evening and Saturday morning. They also give concerts around Norfolk and tour, recently the USA, the Netherlands and Malta. In 2010 the Girls' Choir has forged links with a girls' choir in Denmark; they will visit Denmark in April and host the Danes in late June taking part in workshops and giving concerts.
The girls gain much from their time with Norwich Cathedral Girls’ Choir. They receive a thorough education in vocal production and musical theory and emerge equipped to enjoy the pleasure of singing for the rest of their lives. An introduction to music and poetry of the highest quality in inspirational surroundings is another obvious advantage. The girls also acquire for life a number of less obvious skills which are vital in today’s competitive world. Most notable are those of self-confidence in expression, team building, taking pride in excellence and an ability to juggle competing responsibilities.
Norwich Cathedral Girls’ Choir is run on a voluntary basis. It is a big commitment both for the girls and their families but one which generations of girls now look back on with huge loyalty and affection.
How to apply
If you would like to be considered for membership or you have a daughter who you think might benefit then do contact the Master of the Music, David Lowe (01603 626589). He will be delighted to arrange an informal audition that will comprise some scales, a few ear tests, some simple sight reading and a prepared song of the singer’s choice.