We were delighted to welcome back schools from Sunderland to Music Outreach Celebration on Thursday 21 November 2024. 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 came from five schools in the county: Castletown Primary School; George Washington Primary School; Rickleton Primary School; St Anne's RC Primary School, and Usworth Colliery School.
Each school received support and tuition over the past term from Lewis West and Jessica Holmes, supported by Daniel Cook, Master of the Choristers and 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 have children taking part in our musical offering nearly every day as choristers, keeping centuries of musical tradition alive. It’s lovely to be able to work with young singers from across the county, developing their vocal skills, offering their opportunities to hear the majestic cathedral organ and showing them how music can enhance their wellbeing.
They have all worked incredibly hard this term to prepare the songs for the Celebration – the children gave a rousing and deeply moving performance, something that their family and friends will treasure for a long time.”
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.
Julie Carr, Deputy Head Teacher of St Anne's RC Primary School, commented on the children's dedication and response to being involved said saying:
"The children have really enjoyed learning the songs this year. It's been a wonderful experience and something that they won't forget - performing at Durham Cathedral! The school is incredibly proud of them."
The theme of this term’s work was ‘Sing me a song’, pieces about the healing power of music, including ‘How can I keep from singing’ (popularised by Enya) and ‘Cantar’ by Jay Althouse.
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
