Image ©️ Michael Whitefoot
A brief look at the role of a Choral Scholar explained by Samuel Hudson, Organist & Director of Music
“Their principal role is a musical one, and choral scholars sing in the Cathedral Choir and Cathedral Youth Choir (as well as in Worcester Festival Choral Society, and in various ensembles of the Three Choirs Festival). This involves singing six services per week (including one Evensong sung by the scholars only), learning a large volume of repertoire so as to be fully prepared for each service, and aspiring in all ways to the highest professional standards. Choral scholars are offered funding towards individual singing lessons and are encouraged to do all they can to make the most out of their scholarship year, working on their own vocal development, and absorbing as much repertoire as possible.
Choral scholars also fulfil a number of other duties which assist with the complex and delicate running of the music department. They help chaperone choristers between the cathedral and the King’s School, and assist with their supervision at other times. Through this work they get to know the choristers and therefore share in the responsibility of their pastoral care. Choral scholars have the opportunity to enrich their experience through engaging with the wider cathedral community, and with opportunities at the King’s School and in the wider area, according to their interests and ambitions.
Former choral scholars have gone on to many walks of life, including to other cathedral posts, postgraduate study, teaching, and the Police force!”
