The Cathedral Church of St Andrew, Aberdeen

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Saint Andrew's Cathedral is one of Aberdeen's famous historic churches and is to be found in King Street near the City Centre. The Cathedral maintains a choral tradition which goes back centuries. There is the Cathedral Choir with Boy Choristers and Choir men (called Lay Clerks) conducted by Andrew Morrisson and the Cathedral Girls' Choir run by Claire Woods. A recently formed mixed adult voice choir "Cathedral Voices" has also been formed for the purpose of singing at special occassions. All choirs are always keen to welcome new members. Membership of the choirs is open to boys and girls aged roughly between 7 and 13. It is not necessary to be a good singer to join the choir, just to enjoy singing. Choristers receive training in singing and other aspects of music. They can work for medals of the Royal School of Church Music, which are recognized all over the world, through the graded 'Voice for Life' programme. They also get pocket money once a month; the amount depends on age and experience. There are weekly rehearsals, normally on Thursdays from 6.30 to 8.00 pm during term time and the requirements on Sunday vary. The benefits of joining a cathedral choir are enormous: The Cathedral Choir broadcasts regularly on the television and radio and also makes recordings. There are frequent concerts in the Cathedral and elsewhere - sometimes with orchestras. A choir fosters a sense of responsibility, self-discipline and encourages confidence and reading and language skills; much music is in Latin, French and German. Choristers have the chance to become skilled in music performance, learn how to sing well and find out about commitment and working as a team. But they do many other things besides, and above all have fun! There is also a chance to on tour with the choir each year. The Cathedral Choir has sung in most of the major churches in the country, recently in Durham, Winchester and St Alban's Cathedrals. In October 2005 the choir toured in North America, including New York. On tour there is also a chance to go sightseeing. Days out to theme parks and other attractions are always popular with the Choristers. The choir is open to anyone of the right age; all you need is an enthusiasm for singing. The Cathedral Choir welcome members from non-church going families and those who already have existing commitments to other churches and denominations. Anyone interested in singing in the Cathedral Choirs is always welcome to come along to the Cathedral without any obligation. The best way is to come to a choir practice, meet the other choir members and see what goes on. If you let us know you are coming we can arrange to show you a short video of the choir's activities through the year. It is always possible to bring your Mum or Dad with you if you wish. For more information about all five choirs, contact the Cathedral Office: cathedral@aberdeen.anglican.org, phone 01224 640119), the Director of Music Dr Andrew Morrison: andrew@top-note.co.uk, 01224 581 151, or the Assistant Organist George Chittenden: george.chittenden@btinternet.com, phone 07916 268362).