From 1095: ‘monks in quire’ sing the monastic services.
1416 onwards: they are joined for some services by singing boys (Choristers), educated at what is now The Chorister School in the Cathedral’s precincts.
1540s: after the dissolution of the monasteries ‘monks in quire’ are replaced by Lay Clerks, meaning men who were not ordained and who could read and write.
1960s: the six Lay Clerks are joined by six Choral Scholars – student members of Durham University.
1997: the Durham Cathedral Consort of Singers of adult volunteers is founded.
2009: the boy Choristers are joined by a team of girl Choristers.