There has been a choir at the Cathedral since its consecration in 1844. With the perseverance and dedication of Peter Smedley throughout the latter half of the 20th Century, and the transformative introduction of Choral Scholarships in 2003 by Neil Page, the Cathedral Choir has developed a strong blend of tradition and innovation achieved through both the breadth of its choral repertoire and its constant striving for the highest standards of performance in this music, which it employs to animate the solemn liturgy throughout the year. 

Today, under the leadership of Alex Patterson, who has himself written many new motets for the Catholic Church, our choir boasts a distinguished variety of music which incorporates plainsong and music written since the 1500s right through to the present day. As a centre of developing musical excellence, the Cathedral has been training some of the very best singers from our regional universities through its Choral Scholarship scheme, as well as nurturing the next generation of bright young voices in our vibrant Youth Choir. We continue to aspire to prove ourselves as responsible custodians of a precious musical inheritance by establishing a level of financial security which enables our heritage to be passed safely on to the next generation. 

An endowment from the Friends of Cathedral Music in 2012 has provided the first steps in the journey to achieve stability for our choral life, but further support is necessary to not only establish a lasting Choral Foundation, but also to allow it to develop. Your help could go towards ordering a new set of music for the choir, cassocks for our Youth Choir, supporting a Choral Scholarship, covering costs for a major concert, commissioning a new choral work, and much more.

If you would like to help support our Choral Foundation, you can do so by giving a one-off donation or setting up a standing order using this donation form. You may also wish to consider leaving a legacy to the music department in your will. Your support is vital in helping to ensure the future of this important musical heritage for generations to come. 

​For more information about any aspect of supporting the choir, including supporting a particular project, please get in touch: musicatthecathedral@gmail.com

Download the Cathedral Music Fund Donation Form to make a one-off donation or set up a standing order:

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