News

from St Anne's

Experiencing chorister life!

On Saturday 12 October, Belfast Cathedral hosted a fabulous, free ‘Be a Chorister for a Day’ event, during which children were able to experience the life of a Cathedral chorister.

Twenty-eight girls and boys, aged between seven and 12, came from schools across Belfast and from towns throughout Northern Ireland such as Whitehead, Dollingstown, and Banbridge for the event where they participated in singing games and workshops, and met some existing Cathedral choristers.

Parents were invited to attend the introduction and warm-up session at the start of the day and learnt how to breathe properly for singing with some amusing techniques. During the event the children were given a Cathedral tour and were also treated to a demonstration of the mighty Cathedral organ. Here they heard all the many different sounds of the instrument, from the very highest sounds to the lowest (and quite amusing) sounds, and from the softest to loudest.

The day culminated in children processing in chorister robes into the Quire stalls of the Cathedral where they took part in a short service for family and friends. The children performed the Anthems A Prayer of St Richard of Chichester by contemporary composer Richard Allain and Lord of the Dance arranged by new director of Music at Belfast Cathedral, Matthew Owens.

Every ‘chorister’ for the day was presented with a certificate by the Dean of Belfast Cathedral, The Very Reverend Stephen Forde, and signed by the Cathedral’s Director of Music, Matthew Owens. In addition they each received a Belfast Cathedral medal, which made the procession out in front of family and friends even more special. At the end of the day there was a drinks reception for family and friends at the West End of the Cathedral.

If you are interested in attending the next ‘Be A Chorister for a Day’ event it will take place on Saturday 9th November, 2019 but as with this October event, places are limited so early application is advised. Matthew Owens is always happy to hear from prospective chorister parents. He can be contacted via email at music@belfastcathedral.org