Chorister Life

To be a Cathedral Chorister at Christ Church is a rewarding and unforgettably special experience. Here is an account of choristership written by one of our Form 8 boys, in his final year of the choir:

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"It can seem quite daunting when you start. We have all felt a little homesick but the other boys and the matrons will always offer comfort and maybe even sweets (but don’t tell anyone!) In the beginning you spend time watching and listening to the other boys in the choir to learn how to be a chorister. You think you will never be able to sing a solo but Dr Darlington encourages everyone to have a go and now I can’t wait for the next one!

We get up at 6.30, get dressed and make our beds. Then it is time for breakfast followed by instrumental practice. By 8am we are over at the cathedral practising for the services in the week. We return at 9am to do a day at school. After school, there is more time for instrumental practice and then a quick snack before going back to the cathedral to sing service. When we come back we have supper and then do prep and then have some free time. We play games outside, watch TV, and go on the computer. Wednesday night is one of our favourites as it is a free evening and it is tuck night! (aka boys' heaven – consisting of sweets, chocolates, drinks and crisps – but not too much of course!) On other free evenings we may watch a film or go over to the meadow to play.

When I look back I am thankful that I passed my voice trial as the experiences I have had since have been amazing.  I have sung at a premiere at Sadlers Wells, at St John’s, Smith’s Square, Blenheim Palace, St Alban’s cathedral and numerous other events. We also are fortunate to go on tours around the world. My first tour was to Bermuda – hot, but incredible and hot! I have also been to Germany and last year we went for 2 weeks to America, singing in Charlotte, Washington, New York, Boston and Toronto. We came home tired but full of our experiences which I will never forget.

Joining the choir was the best thing that ever happened to me and I will be very sad to leave at the end of this year."

Cameron, Form 8