A children’s choir is returning to Portsmouth Catholic Cathedral for the first time in a generation.

St John’s Cathedral is launching a new opportunity for young singers to discover the treasures of Catholic music, develop their talents and perform at a professional level.

The cathedral is delighted to announce the return of a regular children’s choir for the first time in a generation, offering a new opportunity for young people to experience the joy of singing, discover the rich heritage of Catholic music and become part of the life of the Cathedral.

George Richford, Diocesan head of music, said: “The music in Portsmouth’s original and oldest cathedral is undergoing an exciting transformation. We are so lucky to have over 1,000 people at worship here each Sunday, and a natural development of that is to restart a choir of children so that we have the next generation of people to love and value the treasure of Catholic music.”

The new choir will welcome children aged seven to 14 who love singing. With after-school rehearsals twice a week and regular participation in the 10am Sunday Mass, choristers will play an active role in the cathedral’s worship while developing their musical skills in a safe, dynamic and supportive environment.

The initiative aims to offer far more than musical training. Singing in a choir can help children develop self-confidence, concentration, communication and memory skills, with benefits that can extend into the classroom and everyday life. Choristers will also have opportunities to perform concerts, travel, record and broadcast, gaining experience of working to professional standards.

The Cathedral’s Schola Cantorum will give young singers the chance to become part of something special: a community united by music, faith and a shared commitment to excellence. There will also be opportunities for choristers to earn money through their musical work, helping them develop their talents while gaining valuable experience.

The return of a regular children’s choir marks an exciting new chapter in the musical life of St John’s Cathedral. It will help introduce a new generation to the extraordinary treasures of Catholic sacred music, while giving children the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the worship and mission of their local Cathedral.

To register interest or find out more, contact George Richford at [email protected]