Choristers

King's Ely Prep

Choristers

Choristers are treated as professional musicians from the start, interacting and performing with professional singers, organists, and conductors on a daily basis.

King’s Ely Choristers singing in Ely Cathedral

King’s Ely Choristers singing in Ely Cathedral

King’s Ely has educated the Choristers of Ely Cathedral for over 1,000 years.

"My daughter has a more mature approach to her studies which shows in her excellent academic progress. For this, I have to give credit to the discipline, both of Choir and House, and the high expectations and standards of teaching."
Ms O’Dwyer
King's Ely Choristers rehearsing in Ely Cathedral
King's Ely Choristers enjoying the Ely Christmas Fair
King's Ely Choristers rehearsing for Evensong
King's Ely Choristers taking part in annual Pancake Race outside Ely Cathedral

Being a Cathedral Chorister is a big undertaking, but with transferrable skills of commitment, rigour, attention to detail, confidence, and performance skills, it’s an experience that stays with students forever. 

The Choristers’ Cathedral duties take place mainly before and after school, allowing them full access to the exceptional range of academic, musical, and sporting opportunities available at King’s Ely Prep.

All Choristers receive individual vocal tuition and are expected to learn at least one other instrument. They receive tuition in general musicianship and music theory.

Choristers also enjoy the same school holidays as other King’s Ely pupils, with the exception of Christmas and Easter. They spend the four days leading up to these two important festivals preparing for major services and concerts. For many students this is the highlight of the year.

Selection Process

We are always delighted to hear from potential applicants for Chorister places. Formal voice trials are usually held in the Lent Term before entry, but children can audition at any time, subject to spaces being available. 

Prior musical experience is helpful but by no means essential. We are looking for a good natural voice and ear, a positive attitude to learning, and the potential to progress and enjoy life in the choir. 

At the voice trial we administer standard ear and rhythm tests, listen to a prepared vocal piece (plus an instrumental piece wherever possible), and ask candidates to read a passage of text. Prospective Choristers also undergo academic assessments.
Boarding and Fee Remission

Choristers can attend King’s Ely as boarders, flexi-boarders, or as day pupils. The Chorister remission is 40% off the day fee; further means-tested assistance is available. King’s Ely and the Cathedral are committed to ensuring that no gifted child is denied access to this life-changing opportunity due to financial constraints. 

All former Choristers receive an automatic continuation award to King’s Ely School after their time in the choir if they continue to contribute towards music in the school. This award is 33% of the day fees for boys in years 9-11, and 25% off the day fees for boys and girls in the Sixth Form, unless they are successful in gaining a Sixth Form Choral Scholarship.

For further details, please contact the Cathedral’s Director of Music: Edmund Aldhouse

CHORISTER HANDBOOK

Download Application Form

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