The start of the new academic year brings fresh talent and renewed enthusiasm to Worcester Cathedral's music department, as new choristers, scholars and staff join the Cathedral Choir for the year ahead.
This autumn, the Cathedral welcomes three new Choral Scholars, a new Organ Scholar, a number of new choristers, and new Assistant Director of Music Alexander Robson, who was formally admitted to the choir during Sunday's Sung Eucharist.
New and returning members of the choir were officially welcomed at a special Evensong on Saturday 12 September. Joining the Cathedral for the 2026/27 academic year are Organ Scholar Zane Soonawalla, Alto Choral Scholar Rachael Wells, Bass Choral Scholar Caleb Richards and Tenor Choral Scholar Gabriel Ferris.
Gabriel's appointment marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first scholar to be supported through the John Paul Hoskins Choral Scholar Appeal, established in memory of Worcester Cathedral's late Precentor, Canon John Paul Hoskins.
The appeal honours Canon Hoskins' lifelong commitment to choral worship and his passion for nurturing young musicians. Choral scholarships provide talented singers with the opportunity to develop their musical abilities alongside professional musicians while participating in the Cathedral's centuries-old tradition of worship through music.
John Paul himself was deeply committed to supporting young singers, having been shaped by his own experience as a tenor in cathedral choirs. During his ministry at Worcester Cathedral, he played a pivotal role in strengthening the Cathedral's musical life, liturgy and mission across the city and diocese.
Originally launched with a target of £45,000 to fund one Choral Scholar annually for six years, the appeal has already exceeded its fundraising goal. Speaking at a reception following Evensong, the Dean of Worcester, the Very Revd Dr Stephen Edwards, announced the achievement and confirmed that the fund will now support additional scholars in future years.
Guests were also informed that a memorial plaque commemorating Canon Hoskins has been installed in the Cathedral's West Cloister, close to the entrance of the Song School. The plaque was crafted by Worcester Cathedral's stonemasons and serves as a permanent tribute to his lasting contribution to the Cathedral's worship and musical heritage.
The Very Revd Dr Stephen Edwards, Dean of Worcester, said: "We are delighted to welcome this year's scholars, choristers and new staff members to Worcester Cathedral. Each of them will play an important part in sustaining and enriching our outstanding choral tradition.
"It is particularly fitting that we are able to welcome our first John Paul Hoskins Choral Scholar this year. John Paul cared deeply about the future of cathedral music and the opportunities it can provide to young people. The extraordinary success of this appeal is a testament both to his legacy and to the generosity of those who have supported it.
"We are immensely grateful to everyone who has contributed. Their support will help ensure that Worcester Cathedral's rich musical tradition continues to flourish for generations to come."