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We aim to encourage a lifelong love of music from a young age.

What age ranges are covered?

Our Outreach Programme provides singing opportunities for children age 1 – 16.

 

The Kodály method

The musicianship training used is based on the Kodály method. This was developed in Hungary in the 20th century by composer Zoltán Kodály.

Primary schools

We have worked with more than 800 local schools to help introduce singing to children. Find out more in Music Outreach for Primary Schools.

Durham Cathedral

Chimes: Music for children aged 1-5

We welcome pre-school aged children from babies and toddlers to those who have already started nursery.

Children and their carers take part in musical activities, games and songs. They are encouraged to sing, play, explore and listen to music.

All activities are designed to unconsciously introduce your child to the elements of music: pulse, rhythm, pitch, dynamics, and texture.

Whilst having fun, the children are not only developing the foundations of musicianship but also their confidence, motor skills and language skills.

Chimes details

  • Venue: The Chorister School next to the Cathedral
  • When: Saturdays - 9am
  • Cost: £45 per term

Minstrels: Music for children aged 5-7

The Minstrels learn and have fun through singing and musicianship games. Children sing a wide variety of songs and play music games to encourage social interaction, physical co-ordination and self-confidence.

They learn to pitch simple melodies in their heads, and grasp basic pulse and rhythm.

Minstrels details

  • Venue: The Chorister School next to the Cathedral
  • When: Saturdays 9am – 9.45am
  • Cost: £45 per term

 

Durham Cathedral Young Singers (DCYS) Training Choir: For children aged 8 - 11

This is a traditional choir, learning songs for concerts and performances. It regularly performs in Durham Cathedral.

There is a focus on developing the ability to sing in parts using rounds and canons as a starting point. It also builds on the singers’ knowledge of rhythm and pitch. Singing and rhythm games help enhance musical understanding.

The Training Choir will often work with the Chamber Choir to sing more challenging repertoire. It takes part in youth operas and external events such as the National Festival of Music for Youth.

DCYS Training Choir details

  • Venue: The Chorister School next to the Cathedral
  • When: Saturdays 10am – 12pm
  • Cost: £45 per term

Chamber Choir: For children aged 11 - 13

The Chamber Choir regularly takes part in special concerts, festivals and other large events.

Past performances include Durham Mystery Plays and participating in the Lindisfarne Gospels Choir. During 2015 they took part in an opera based on the Magna Carta.

Chamber Choir details

  • Venue: The Chorister School next to the Cathedral
  • When: Saturdays 10am – 12pm
  • Cost: £45 per term

 

How to find out more

For more information on any of our music outreach choirs, please contact Rebecca Dodd on musicoutreach@durhamcathedral.co.uk or 0191 374 4066.