The Choristers of St Nicholas Schola Cantorum comprise up to thirty boys and girls aged 8-14, drawn from the parish, St Nicholas’ Parochial School and the wider community. The choristers receive a unique musical education through weekly rehearsals, and singing and musicianship classes utilising the RSCM Voice for Life scheme. The choristers participate frequently in the Sunday morning parish Eucharist in St Nicholas’, and also sing at other special services and occasions. They have performed in the Baboró Arts Festival as special guests of Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter Tom Chapin, in the Galway Early Music Festival with The Harp Consort under the direction of Andrew Lawrence-King, and in other special events and concerts around the city.

Each September, auditions are held for new choristers, and there is usually an open day and rehearsal in which prospective choristers and their families can get a taste of what the choir is about. Membership is open to all children regardless of religious or cultural background. Prospective choristers do not have to be already musically literate, learning an instrument, or already singing in other choirs (although all these things help). The most important things are a good ear and a sparkle in the eye!

The audition is a relaxed ffifteen-minute affair with Schola Cantorum staff, with children encouraged to sing a piece of their own choosing before having some short tests for aural response, reading ability, etc. New choristers spend a probationary period in training (usually a year) before being admitted as full choristers. All music and robes are provided for members, and there is modest subscription, payable termly, towards running costs.

If you’d like to find out more about the Choristers’ programme or discuss any aspect of membership please contact the Organist [here]. If you would like to arrange an audition for your child, please contact the parents’ liaison Brian Hoban.

Opening Hours:

Mon 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Tues 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Wed 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Thurs 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Fri 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sun - Closed
Subscribe and keep in touch:
The latest news, articles, and resources, sent to your inbox weekly.
© 2023 St Nicholas Collegiate Church. All rights reserved.
Terms & Conditions Privacy Policy