Could your child be a chorister at York Minster?

York Minster is searching for boys, currently in Year 3, to audition for the world-famous Choir of York Minster and the chance to receive an outstanding education at St Peter’s School, York. Formal singing experience is not required, a love of singing is all that is needed.

Children joining the choir, which is made up of 16 boys, 16 girls and 12 adult singers, will be part of an internationally-renowned team of singers whose voices are an essential part of worship at the cathedral. The auditions held earlier this year resulted in a full complement of girl choristers, but some spaces remain unfilled for the boys. The choristers are trained by Robert Sharpe, Director of Music at York Minster.

Becoming a chorister is a life-changing opportunity and life as a chorister is busy and rewarding, with new adventures and opportunities each day. Choristers perform at services, high profile occasions, events and concerts. They will also have the opportunity to take part in broadcasts for national media organisations such as BBC Radio 3 and Classic FM, recordings for classical music labels and to tour abroad. Choristers develop key skills, make friends for life, and discover a joy of music that will last a lifetime.

The recruitment process aims to identify children with musicality and potential, rather than recruiting fully formed singers.  Formal music experience is therefore not required; energy, enthusiasm and humour are just as important as musical talent.

York Minster’s choristers receive an excellent education at St Peter’s School, York. The Chapter of York provides a significant bursary for each chorister and families are supported through applications for means-tested funding which potentially increases the level of funding to 100%.

All prospective choristers will be auditioned by Dr Robert Sharpe, Director of Music. Parents are encouraged to make enquiries with St Peter’s School as soon as possible

The new boy choristers will join the Choir of York Minster from September 2023.

More information and how to apply:

For more information about the chorister audition process and to apply online go to:
www.stpetersyork.org.uk/admissions/chorister-admissions.

For more details, contact Sara Bath, St Peter’s 8-13 Head’s PA, on 01904 527391 or email s.bath@stpetersyork.org.uk