How to Join the Choir
Boys and girls are eligible to join the Cathedral Choir as probationers once they reach Year 4 (younger children are encouraged to join Carlisle Cantate). They are selected by an audition which can take place at any mutually convenient time. No previous musical training is required; all that is looked for is a good ear and a love of singing.
“Make a joyful noise unto to the Lord!”
Joining the Cathedral Choir
Boys and girls are eligible to join the Cathedral Choir as probationers once they reach Year 4 (younger children are encouraged to join Carlisle Cantate). No previous musical training is required; all that is looked for is a good ear and a love of singing. A child’s reading ability is also taken into consideration.
Life as a Cathedral chorister is challenging, rewarding and exciting – all at the same time! While offering a first-rate musical education, it also teaches some of the most important lessons for life, such as self-discipline and working together as a team.
Auditions for both boys and girls currently in Year 3 are usually held during June each year, with successful candidates beginning as choristers in September. Dates for the auditions are be posted on this page during May. Spaces in the choir occasionally arise at other times, and the Director of Music welcomes enquiries at other times of year.
Lay Clerks
Lay Clerk duties consist of two Sunday Services and four weekday Evensongs (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday), with a rehearsal 40 minutes before each service. The treble line alternates between girls and boys. Wednesdays and Saturdays are normally free. There is an annual stipend which is reviewed in January each year and there are also fees for certain additional services, including weddings, funerals and broadcasts. To apply contact the Music Department Administrator, Cathedral Office, 7 The Abbey, Carlisle CA3 8TZ musicadmin@carlislecathedral.org.uk for an application form.
