Boy choristers inspire the next generation at King’s Ely

Pupils at King’s Ely were in their element discovering more about what it is like to be an Ely Cathedral Boy Chorister.

Boys in Year 2 at King’s Ely Acremont joined the Year 3 and 4 King’s Ely Junior cathedral choristers for an action-packed afternoon. First of all, they learnt all about the cathedral organ, listening to it quietly, spookily and – favourite of all – loudly!

They then headed into the cathedral’s stunning Lady Chapel where they enjoyed a singing workshop with the choristers led by Paul Trepte, Director of Music at Ely Cathedral. Next on the itinerary was visiting the song school, or as Mr Trepte likes to call it, the ‘engine room’, to see where the boy choristers, who were dressed in their scarlet gowns for the occasion, rehearse each day.

The boys then paired up and walked like choristers from the cathedral over to Choir House where they were able to ask lots of questions about chorister life. Games and a treasure hunt around the boarding house and its garden in small teams were thoroughly enjoyed and parents were invited to tour the house before being treated to a performance by the pupils based on what they had learnt during the afternoon.

King’s Ely pupils can become cathedral choristers from the age of 7 in Year 3. It is an experience that will stay with them throughout their lives. For many, it will also mark the beginning of a successful and fulfilling musical career.

King's Ely Junior is a co-educational independent day and boarding school for pupils aged 7-13.