Be a Chorister at Radley

BE A CHORISTER AT RADLEY COLLEGE…

WHY BE A CHORISTER? • F un, inspiring and unique start to life • D evelop confidence • M ake life-long friends • E xperience a first-rate music education • T ake part in recordings, go on foreign tours and sing in some of the most amazing buildings in the UK and abroad

“ Singing with my friends in the choir is the best bit of my week. The tours are brilliant fun and we have performed in some amazing places - and the food is great too!”

Choristers’ comments

“ The weekly practices and Sunday service are the highlights of the boys’ weekly activities. They love every aspect of it, from the weekly music theory instruction and service, to the choir and instruments’ concerts and mini tours. It’s opened a whole world of quality musical opportunity, precious beyond any of our expectations.”

Current chorister parents

“ If it wasn’t for the chorister scheme at Radley College, and the support and training that came with it, I wouldn’t be able to do what I’m doing today in my singing career. But most importantly, Radley is a family and one which remains with you for life, one which I certainly cherish today.”

Peter Norris - Former chorister, now a member of Genesis Sixteen and studying music at Royal Holloway

BECOMING A CHORISTER AT RADLEY New boys start as probationers. They receive theory and singing tuition, and sing with the older boys in services. When they are ready, boys become full choristers.

All boys in the choir receive free instrumental lessons, theory tuition and pocket money every term. Money is also paid into a savings account which boys receive when they leave the choir.

WHEN DO CHORISTERS REHEARSE AND PERFORM? Weekly rehearsals are on Thursday and Friday, 5-7pm (including a hot supper). The boys perform on Sundays during term-time, usually at the morning service in Radley College Chapel.

There are also tours, visits to sing in Cathedrals and College chapels, concerts and trips.

WHO CAN JOIN? • T he Precentor (Director of Music) is always pleased to meet prospective choristers (from the age of six) and their parents at any time during the year.

• W e are looking for boys with enthusiasm and potential, rather than the ‘finished article’.

• B oys are not expected to have a fully developed voice or much formal singing experience.

• T here is an informal audition where boys sing a song that they know and some simple vocal exercises.

Contact the Choristership Assistant Mrs Alison Cooke for more information.

Email amc.cooke@radley.org.uk Telephone 01235 543034