Junior School Cathedral Choristers
To apply to become a chorister, please contact Sue Webb, Head of Admissions, on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk. More information on the application process can be found here.
Choristers at Rochester Cathedral
There has been a choir school associated with Rochester Cathedral since 604 AD. King’s School Rochester is considered the oldest choir school in the world and has worked in partnership with the Cathedral for over 1,400 years.
In 2020, the Cathedral embarked on an exciting new chapter in its choral tradition with the introduction of a single mixed treble line, giving boys and girls equal opportunity to sing together in the Cathedral Choir.
Becoming a chorister at Rochester Cathedral offers the chance to be part of over a millennia of musical heritage.
What do choristers learn?
The experience offered to choristers is unparalleled, both musically and as preparation for adult life. King’s School Rochester places great value on academic and musical development while ensuring a healthy balance between a chorister’s work, leisure time, and participation in sport and other co-curricular activities. Our experience shows that choristers typically thrive in their academic studies.
By working closely together as a team, choristers develop important life skills such as self-discipline, time management, responsibility, and the ability to support one another, especially the younger members of the Choir. Being a Cathedral Chorister is an immensely rewarding experience that brings wide-ranging benefits to your child’s education – fostering confidence, resilience and a lifelong passion for music.
How are choristers chosen?
Auditions normally take place in the Lent (Spring) Term of Year 3 for September entry for Year 4.
Enquiries are welcome at any time, and formal applications open at the start of the calendar year. Vacancies occasionally arise in other year groups, so we are always happy to hear from boys and girls currently in Years 4–7.
It is important to stress that many of our choristers come to audition with very little experience. We are looking for children with potential to learn and a genuine enthusiasm for music and singing.
What are the benefits of being a chorister?
Choristers receive a package of financial and educational support, including:
- Up to 30% fee remission for choristers
- Up to 10% fee remission for probationers
- Free music tuition
- Access to additional means-tested bursaries
With high-quality instrumental teaching at King’s School Rochester alongside the exceptional choral training at the Cathedral, choristers are well placed to apply for Music Scholarships to the Senior School at 13+ (Year 9), provided they reach the required standard on an orchestral instrument.
Families should note that a choristership is intended for pupils who will remain at King’s School Rochester beyond Year 6; it is not suitable for those planning for their child to leave at 11+.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
