The St Mary’s Choral Scholars Trust awards ten choral scholarships in Nottingham each year for students over the age of 18 in further and higher education. Choral Scholars enjoy the following benefits:
- at least £1,625 choral scholarship per annum (paid in arrears each term)
- additional fees from weddings, funerals etc.
- choral masterclasses with some of the country’s best choral directors (2008 Edward Higginbottom, 2009 & 2013 Jeremy Jackman, 2010 & 2016 David Hill)
- subsidised singing lessons
- international tours
The diverse and extensive repertoire coupled with the regular programme of three services per week ensure that all choral scholars will further their musical experience and ability.
Our choral scholars all share a passion and talent for choral music, and many of them have gone on to build successful music careers. Click here to read some former choral scholars’ thoughts on their experience.
Commitments
Each choral scholar is expected to rehearse for and sing the mid-week service (usually a Wednesday Evensong), attend a weekly rehearsal for an hour and sing both Sunday morning and evening services. In addition, there are a few extra services and concerts throughout the year, and scholars have the chance of singing at weddings and funerals as part of the Choir rota for such events for additional fees.
Such a commitment demands both good voices and a reasonable sight-reading ability. The Choral Scholarships are available for Bass, Tenor, Countertenor/Alto, and Female Soprano voices, and are awarded solely on merit throughout the year.
Application process
Although the award is usually for one year, some choral scholars apply on a termly or semester basis. Choral scholarships are obtained by audition and interview, and choral scholars are welcomed to apply for further awards in subsequent years.
To express your interest in choral scholarships at St Mary’s, please complete the Choral Scholarship Enquiry Form.
If you have questions about Choral Scholarships please contact John Keys, Director of Music, by email: stmarysscholarships@hotmail.co.uk
Choral Scholarship Patrons: Sir Andrew Buchanan, Dr David Hill, The Bach Choir and Yale University.
Resident Choir
In addition to the Choral Scholars, the choir is made up of a number of experienced voluntary singers who sing both during and outside of the academic term. More than half of the resident choir are previous Choral Scholars of St Mary’s and other institutions. A high standard of musical ability is maintained and any potential choir members are requested to contact the Director of Music for more information about auditioning.
Lockdown performance
Watch our choral scholars perform Stephen Paulus’ The Road Home, recorded in isolation during the coronavirus pandemic, below.