On Thursday 6 March, we were delighted to welcome back schools to sing at Durham Cathedral as part of the Music Outreach Celebration. The programme works with over 800 school children every year in County Durham, South Tyneside and Sunderland who are invited to perform in front of their families, friends and visitors in the Nave of Durham Cathedral.
The children who performed, came from five schools in the county: Cleadon Primary School, Marsden Primary School, Sea View Primary School, St Bede’s RC Primary School and Westoe Crown Primary School.
Each school received support and tuition over the past term from Jessica Holmes and Lewis West, supported by Benjamin Mills (Assistant Organist) and Joseph Beech (Sub-Organist) to ensure they were prepared for the big day.
Daniel Cook, Master of the Choristers and Organist of Durham Cathedral and Director of the Outreach Programme said
"We’re fortunate to have children involved in our musical programme nearly every day, serving as choristers and continuing a rich tradition of music that spans centuries. It’s a joy to collaborate with young singers from throughout the county, helping them hone their vocal talents, giving them the chance to experience the grandeur of the cathedral organ, and demonstrating how music can support their emotional and mental well-being.
The children have put in remarkable effort this term to prepare for the Celebration, delivering a performance that was both powerful and heartfelt. It’s a moment their family and friends will hold dear for many years to come."
Starting in 2003, the programme aims to give local school children the opportunity to learn music from practitioners from Durham Cathedral, inspiring them with the joys of singing and giving them the chance to sing in the wonderful space of the Nave.
As part of the programme, leaders make three visits to each school over the course of two months to teach the children the songs for the concert. Halfway through the project, schools then come together in groups to practice and encourage each other. Finally, all the schools gather for the performance day at the cathedral and sing for their family and friends.
Paul Charlton, Deputy Head Teacher of St Bede's RC Primary School, commented on the children's day as a whole and the dedication from the Music Outreach team, saying:
"The children loved being part of the programme getting to performing with the other local schools and the Cathedral's Outreach team were dedicated and enthusiastic. The children really enjoyed the experience as a whole and the day itself - plus they got to see the resting place of the Saint we are named after!
The theme of this term’s work was based on ‘Songs of travel’ including the Gospel Train, The Waters of Tyne and One More Step Along the World I Go. The children also sang a moving rendition of Sailing by Gavin Sutherland, later made popular by Rod Stewart.
We would like to extend thanks to everyone involved in making the Music Outreach Programme a big success this term and look forward to the next performances. If you would like to know more or be part of our Music Outreach programme, please contact musicoutreach@durhamcathedral.co.uk
