RSCM Northern Cathedral Singers
RSCM Northern Cathedral Singers (NCS) is an adult training choir, which sings approximately five services per year in cathedrals and major churches across the North of England. Most events take place on Saturdays (or occasional Bank Holidays) and singers come from across the region to rehearse before the service at the end of the day. The choir is currently directed by Martyn Rawles, Organist and Assistant Director of Music at Lichfield Cathedral.
Learning new repertoire and developing vocal and musical skills is at the heart of the choir’s work, so the music list for the year includes a wide range of styles and periods which present different challenges and teaching points.
NCS currently has vacancies in all voice parts but is particularly keen to hear from prospective tenors and basses.
Dates for 2023/24:
Saturday 7 October – Newcastle Cathedral
Saturday 10 February – Liverpool Cathedral
Saturday 23 March – Lichfield Cathedral
Monday 6 May – York Minster
Saturday 20 July – Southwell Minster
FAQs
Q. Who can apply?
A. Membership is open to adult members of RSCM-affiliated churches and choirs, or Individual/Student members of the RSCM. Admission to the choir is by audition. The standard expected of applicants is roughly equivalent to that of RSCM Silver Award level. All members must comply with RSCM Safeguarding requirements.
Q. How much does it cost?
A. Standard membership – £105 (payable either in full at the beginning of the academic year or in three payments of £35 spread across the year)
Singers are responsible for providing their own music. Scholarship funding is occasionally available; please contact the choir administrator for further details.
Q. What happens at the audition?
A. As well as preparing a piece to sing (The RSCM Silver Award syllabus contains examples of possible repertoire), you will be asked to demonstrate some vocal exercises to test range and tone quality, and given some sight-singing to test your ability to tackle new music. Some auditions may be conducted online.
Q. How do I apply to join?
A. New applicants should contact the choir administrator, Karen Banks (ncs@rscm.com).
