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Cathedral Choir

Durham Cathedral Choir can trace its origins back to the time of the Cathedral’s foundation in the 11th century.

Who is in the Choir?

There are up to 24 girl and 24 boy Choristers as well six Lay Clerks and six Choral Scholarship holders. The boys and girls sing alternately.

At major services of Advent and Christmas, and at other special occasions, all the Choristers sing together with the adults of the choir.

Children's Choir

Choristers

Our Choristers are aged 7 - 13 and are all educated at Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation for more information, including how to apply please see here.

Choral Scholars

The six Choral Scholars are students at Durham University, who sing alongside their studies. For more information, including how to apply please see here.

Lay Clerks

The six Lay Clerks are professional adult singers, who work with the Cathedral Choir alongside their other employment commitments, ranging from singing teaching to librarianship. They also act as mentors to the Choral Scholars.

When can I hear the choir sing?

Our choir sings eight services each week, continuing a centuries’ old tradition. 

In term-time the Cathedral choir sings Evensong six times a week at 5.30pm Tuesday – Saturday and 3.30pm on Sundays.

On Sunday mornings the choir sings at a Sung Eucharist at 10am and Matins at 11.30am.

Childrens choir walking through cathedral

Scholarships and grants for those who sing

All Choristers are educated at Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation and receive a bursary worth up to two thirds of the annual fees. Further means tested assistance is also available.

We also offer Choral Scholarships and Organ Scholarships to Durham University students.

Interested in joining the choir?

We are hold informal voice trials, with no obligation, for children in Years 2-6.

To sign up, please download an application form and return it to the Music Administrator by emailing music@durhamcathedral.co.uk