Joining the Ripon Cathedral Choirs

Joining the Choir

Children who are fortunate enough to become a member of Ripon Cathedral Choir participate in a rich heritage. The training and experience involved are without parallel, and for many it will have a lasting influence on the rest of their life. Entry to the Choir is by audition at Voice Trials held once a year. However, the Director of Music is always happy to meet parents and prospective choristers throughout the year, to audition, give advice and sometimes offer places in the Cathedral Choir there and then!

The Boy Choristers
Selection for choir places is made at an Audition and for entry in September 2009 these will be held on Saturday 15th November 2008 and Saturday 7th February 2009. Successful candidates attend Ripon Cathedral Choir School and the choral scholarships awarded have a value of 50% of the fees. In some circumstances additional funding of up to 100% may be available. Choristers benefit from the excellent musical facilities provided in the School and each member of the choir learns to play at least two musical instruments. Music theory lessons are free. The choir is required to sing at the great festivals of Christmas and Easter and so the boys remain at the School over these periods. Careful provision is made so that these times are happy and memorable ones.

Click here to download further information and an application form
for Boy Choristers.

The Girl Choristers
Selection for places in the Girls' Choir is made at an Audition and for entry in September 2009 this will be held on Saturday 7th February 2009. Girl Choristers may attend the Cathedral Choir School (independent co-education) or any other school within reasonable commuting distance to the cathedral, as long as full attendance at rehearsals and services is maintained. Girl Choristers who attend the Cathedral Choir School are awarded a Choral Scholarship worth 20% of the school fees (whether boarding or day pupils) and further financial support is possible in some circumstances. Rehearsals are held during term time on Wednesdays (5.00-6.45 pm) and Saturdays 6.30-8.00 pm and the Girl Choristers sing one or two services each weekend. Girls who attend the Choir School have additional rehearsals on Wednesdays (8.00-8.40am) and Fridays (3.55-4.30pm) and usually sing at least one service each term without the Senior Choristers.

Click here to download further information and an application form for Girl Choristers.