| Frequently Asked Questions |
Q How can I tell if my child is good enough to be a chorister?
A The organist or choirmaster will be happy to give him or her an informal voice test and can advise whether you should proceed or not. If they like what they hear, they will usually suggest coming along to a more formal voice trial organised by the school. Sometimes they may suggest that the voice is better suited to another choir school. |
Q What is the choirmaster looking for?
A A number of special ingredients help make a good chorister: in particular a keen musical ear and an eagerness to sing. A clutch of music examination certificates is not necessary – alertness and enthusiasm are!
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Q Does he/she need to be very bright?
A School staff need to be satisfied that a new recruit can cope comfortably with school work and the many other activities on offer, as well as the demanding choir workload. |
Q Can my daughter be a chorister?
A Yes! Choir schools in Exeter, Lincoln, Ripon, Salisbury, Wells and York all have opportunities for girls who are educated in the choir school. Edinburgh and Manchester have mixed choirs. A number of other cathedrals operate voluntary girls' choirs, drawing members from a variety of local schools. |
Q I can’t afford the fees so what can I do?
A CSA’s long-term aim is that no child be denied a place through lack of funds. First check with the school what help is given to its choristers and whether they can give more. If your child has been awarded a place, he or she may qualify for help through CSA’s Chorister Fund or the Government’s Choir School Scheme. For further information about the Government's Music & Dance Scheme visit their site at: www.dfes.gov.uk/mds |
Q What happens after choir school?
A A remarkable number of choristers win valuable academic or music awards to top secondary schools. Others continue in the senior school of their choir school or transfer into the maintained system.
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