Join the Cathedral Choir

Who are we looking for?

Potential choristers

• Are girls or boys currently in Year 2, 3, 4 or 5 (at any school)
• Have a clear natural voice and enjoy singing and music
• Can pitch notes accurately and repeat simple melodies and rhythms
• Have potential and enthusiasm rather than prior experience!

All Choristers receive a 40% reduction on school fees at King's Ely (equal to at least £8,750 per year), with further means-tested bursaries available. We aim to ensure that any child can become an Ely Cathedral chorister, regardless of financial circumstances 

How to apply

Auditions for the choir take place throughout the year, although the main auditions are on Friday 27 February (for children already at King's Ely) or Saturday 28 February (for children at any school). 

Ideally, potential choristers go through all the steps below:

1. Arrange an informal chat: We invite parents/carers of potential choristers to contact us informally first of all to learn more about choristership, and find out if it is a good fit for the child and family.
2. Come for an informal audition: We invite potential choristers to an informal audition at which they can meet the director of the choir, and practise some of the games and activities included in the formal audition. This is an excellent chance to prepare for this in a relaxed and friendly setting, and to receive feedback in advance of the next part of the process.

3. Come for a formal audition: The formal audition for the choir is much like the informal audition, but in addition we ask all applicants to learn and sing one of two simple songs (you can find full details at the foot of this page), and to play an instrument if they are learning one. Watch the videos below to find out from some of our current choristers what else to expect in the audition.

   We also meet each candidate’s parents or carers to discuss choristership. Please note that King’s Ely has its own entry requirements which choristers need to fulfil, and you will need to make an application to the school either at the same time as, or immediately after, the formal audition. 

To find out more and arrange a chat or informal audition: 

music@elycathedral.org
01353 660336

Chorister Auditions 

What to expect

Morning Has Broken 

Video, Accompaniment and Sheet Music

Skye Boat Song 

Video, Accompaniment and Sheet Music