Psallam spiritu et mente
I will sing with the spirit and with the understanding also
(1 Corinthians 14:15)
We offer up to six Choral Scholarships (soprano, alto, tenor, bass) annually, appointments being made at any time of the year. They are local singers aged 16–18 who wish to improve their choral and/or solo singing. Whilst aimed at those studying music and/or considering applying for university awards in the future, it is not a requirement.
St Peter’s Choral Scholars lead the singing for our weekly Sunday 9.30am Communion Service, as well as the occasional special service on other days, under the direction of our Director of Music, Ben Driver, who is experienced in developing young singers. They are required to attend rehearsals immediately before the weekly service, and may have opportunities for concert performances too.
Essential qualities include some experience of singing in a choir, an ability to read music and a desire to learn both as part of a relatively small choral group and as an occasional soloist. Sight-reading skills will be an advantage, as will any previous experience of church music. St Peter’s is affiliated to the Royal School of Church Music.
Our Choral Scholars sing 30 services a year, mostly in school term-time, between September and the following July. They receive fees of £40 per service, payable termly. Typically, singers will rehearse on a Sunday from 8.30am and sing at the 9.30am service, their duties for the day ending around 10.30am. For the right candidate there may also be the possibility of an Organ Scholarship under similar terms. The church has a beautiful classical Swiss instrument which was installed in 2009.
For further details please email the St Peter’s Parish Office on st.peters.petersham@googlemail.com.
Ben Driver
Director of Music