Cathedral Choral Scholarships & Exhibitions

Clifton scholars and exhibitioners have gone on to sing with Tenebrae, Genesis Sixteen, The Sixteen and other major cathedrals across the country.

Information for Candidates

The Scholarships and Exhibitions (soprano, alto, tenor and bass) are held at the Cathedral Church of Saints Peter and Paul, Clifton (Clifton Cathedral), and are open to those in full-time education, or other accomplished singers as Exhibitioners. Applicants do not need to be studying Music or be Roman Catholic to sing with the Cathedral Choir.

Accounts from past scholars on their time at Clifton are set out on their individual pages:

Up to four scholarships and four exhibitions are held at any one time. Awards are renewable annually, normally for a maximum of three years. Exhibitioners are often appointed from among the Scholars as they gain experience and skills, with an appropriate uplift in the award given, or can be awarded immediately where this is demonstrable.

Application Process

Places are usually filled at the start of the academic year, or at the beginning of a term where a vacancy arises. The audition consists of two contrasting prepared pieces, unprepared sight-reading and ear tests, followed by an interview attended by the Choral Director and the Director of Music.

Duties

Scholars and Exhibitioners attend Friday evening rehearsals from 7pm to 9pm and Sunday morning rehearsals from 10.30am, followed by Solemn Mass at 11.15am. Occasional cantored (solo) 6pm Masses are also expected.

Attendance is required for at least six of twelve Liturgies and associated rehearsals across the year, and at other services as agreed. Broadcasts and recordings outside the usual calendar of worship are paid separately.

Remuneration

The Cathedral offers a scholarship award of up to £1,296 per Choral Scholar for a period of one year, and an award of up to £1,980 per Exhibitioner for the same period.

Conditions of Appointment

Terms follow the usual conditions for such a role in a Cathedral. Full terms of the agreement are available on request.

Further Information