In 1755, Bishop Hildesley established a choir of ten boys and ten girls who sang at Bishopscourt and were clothed and fed as part of their choristership. Happily, today's choristers have families to take care of such things, so we can concentrate on continuing the choral tradition which is such a valuable part of Cathedral life.
Today, Cathedral Isle of Man choristers consist of twenty girl and boy choristers aged between seven and sixteen who form a mixed top line.
Former Choristers have gone on to sing professionally at Durham Cathedral and Tewkesbury Abbey and at St Paul's Cathedral in London.
In addition, the choristers represent the Cathedral throughout the year in performances at regional, community and civic occasions, most recently including Tynwald Day celebrations, singing alongside Aled Jones in the Villa Marina and at an official reception for the Lord Mayor of Armagh.
The choristers rehearse every Thursday during term-time from 4.00pm to 5.30pm and sing a variety of services, mostly a weekly Choral Evensong. Rehearsals include advice and tuition on singing and music theory and the Choristers have opportunity to work through carefully structured RSCM ribbons (many of them hold the National Dean's and Bishop's Awards) as well as ABRSM Grade Exams.
To find out more about the Cathedral Choristers, and to join them contact the Director of Music Peter Litman.
Our treasured Choral Heritage - now, and for tomorrow ......