University of Worcester - Choral Scholarship

Choral Scholarship at Worcester Cathedral

As a chorister in the Worcester Cathedral Choir, you will receive an annual remuneration of approximately 3,450 EUR (3,000 GBP) for a period of 12 months (September to August). You will also be provided with rent-free accommodation above the choir school, with views of the cathedral, the Malvern Hills and the River Severn. You will share this accommodation with the other scholarship holders and the organist. You will also receive a subsidy towards singing lessons, a staff discount of 10% at the cathedral shop and café, and access to a confidential support programme for you and your immediate family. The role offers you paid professional experience in an active cathedral choir: major festivals, concerts and radio broadcasts, as well as the opportunity to take on additional singing engagements in the local area.

Who can apply

• Voice type: There are three parts: alto (male or female), tenor and bass.
• Stage of life: You’ve just finished your degree, or you’re a singer and are currently taking a gap year.
• Choir experience: You have sung in a church or cathedral choir before.
• Training: You have completed formal vocal training or taken singing lessons and are confident in sight-singing.
• Musicianship: You have a good ear, a feel for music and work well as part of a team. Being able to play an instrument to a professional standard is an advantage, but not a requirement.
• Background check: You must pass an extended DBS check, the UK security clearance required for working with children.
• Field of study: All subjects are permitted; there is no obligation to take a particular subject.
• Nationality: Open to all nationalities.

How to apply

Please send a CV (stating your voice type and availability), a short covering letter and two references to the cathedral. The deadline for applications is 9 November at 9. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview and an audition at the end of November.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a highly selective scholarship: only three places are awarded each year, one for each specific voice type. Furthermore, genuine experience in a cathedral or church choir, as well as the ability to sing confidently from sheet music, are required. This keeps the pool of applicants small, but the standards for vocal ability are high. If you clearly fit into one of the three vocal ranges and can demonstrate solid choral experience at the audition, your chances are good.