Residentiary Choir
The Residentiary Choir is a training choir for 40 auditioned adults, which comes together for a week each summer to sing services in a cathedral or other similar venue. Enthusiastic and experienced singers from RSCM affiliated churches (or Individual/Student members) are invited to apply as vacancies arise. Individual vocal coaching is included as an integral part of the week, and the choir sings a wide range of music of all periods. Many members are leading singers or choir trainers of their home choir, and benefit from an intensive week of study under professional trainers and singing in the company of others. Recent venues have included Wells (2014), Rochester (2015), Salisbury (2016), Carlisle (2017), Portsmouth (2018), Coventry (2019), York (2022), Salisbury and Bristol (2023), Guildford (2024) and Chester (2025).
The choir is currently directed by Martyn Rawles, Organist and Assistant Director of Music at Lichfield Cathedral.
- ‘The Residentiary Choir gave me the opportunity to sing wonderful music with strong singers. It was great to be able to get some one-on-one vocal tuition — I’ve always wanted to be able to have singing lessons.’
- ‘I have noticed a considerable improvement in my skills…especially sight-reading.’
Residentiary Choir in 2026
St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Edinburgh
Monday 27 July – Sunday 2 August 2026
Interested in joining? Get in touch to arrange an audition!
Residentiary Choir in 2027
Salisbury Cathedral
Monday 16 – Sunday 22 August 2027
Interested in joining? Get in touch to arrange an audition!
FAQs
Q. How can I join?
A. Please get in touch with us to express interest: resichoir@rscm.com.
Q. What does the audition include?
A. This may be adjusted to suit an online audition.
As well as preparing a piece to sing (chosen from specific lists on the RSCM Gold Award syllabus), 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. You will also be asked to read a short passage of text to show your verbal facility, which will be so important in many things the choir sings.
Q. How much does it cost?
A. The course fee for 2026 is £345, which covers all tuition and resources for the week. Accommodation is available at an extra cost, or singers are very welcome to make their own arrangements.
Q. Is accommodation included?
A. The course fee (£345 in 2026) does not include any accommodation or food during the week. However, group accommodation is arranged (usually at a university, or similar venue) which choir members are invited to opt into, and the costs added to the course fee. Members are welcome to make their own arrangements if they prefer.
