Chorister Programme
A Chorister is an enthusiastic boy or girl typically aged between 7 – 14 that has been specially trained to sing in a Choir performing sacred classical music in the Anglican choral tradition.
Our flagship chorister programme supports gifted and talented children to develop their musical spark with choral excellence. We offer 22 children from our diverse inner-city community:-
- Free weekly singing lessons from a professional vocal tutor
- Fully funded singing and music theory qualifications (grades) with the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM)
- Participation in major concerts across the West Midlands and beyond, including making recordings and TV/Radio broadcasts
- Day and residential trips to cathedrals and other exciting destinations across the UK
- Opportunities to make new friends and getting know new people with similar interests
- Develop unique and valuable skill which will stay with them for life
- Opportunity to learn and performing music by amazing historic composers (like Bach, Handel, Beethoven, etc) in one of the most famous buildings in Birmingham
Research from the Education Endowment Foundation (Arts Participation 2021) has found music can build Children's character and personal development, boost confidence and can accelerate academic progress in reading, writing and mathematics by up to three additional months.
Our programme is ran in partnership with St Mary's Primary CofE Academy, part of Fioretti Trust and all choristers attend the school. However, if you believe your child would be interested in auditioning to join the Choir and lives in the Northwest Birmingham area, please do contact our Director of Music (Khadeem Duncan-Banerjee) for an exploratory conversation via DoM@handsworthstmary.org