King's Ely Choristers join forces to deliver beautiful virtual recordings

Ely Cathedral Choristers have come together – virtually – to record two wonderful lockdown songs.

Missing being able to sing, live and learn together on a daily basis due to Covid-19, members of both the Cathedral’s Girls’ and Boys’ Choirs, all of whom are pupils at King’s Ely, decided to join forces remotely to record two songs which mean a lot to them.

The girls have recorded ‘How Shall I Sing that Majesty’, sung to Ken Naylor’s tune, Coe Fen, and the boys have recorded one of their Evensong favourites, the ‘Ely Magnificat’ by Ben Parry. You can listen to the girls here: https://youtu.be/r3dlB6RoxBY and the boys here: https://youtu.be/duBZo9f53Es.

Glen Dempsey, Assistant Director of Music at Ely Cathedral, said: “Although Covid-19 has put a pause on our Choristers being able to make music together in the Cathedral, singing has by no means stopped for them altogether. We have been finding creative ways to keep singing online in so far as is practicable. Even Zooms have been a particular adventure! These two recordings showcase our boys and girls performing two real Ely favourites; each singer recorded their own voice and then everyone was mixed together digitally. Do have a listen!”

Being a Chorister at Ely Cathedral and King’s Ely is something very special and hugely rewarding: singing Evensong in the Cathedral, sharing life with the other Choristers, being part of a happy, talented group of boys and girls – it’s 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.

Choristers sing daily in the magnificent surroundings of the Cathedral, and all are educated at King's Ely, receiving a scholarship which pays a generous proportion of their fees. The professional skills it teaches last a lifetime and equip children for many different careers: former England cricket captain Sir Alastair Cook, singer and actor Alexander Armstrong and MP David Lammy all attribute their success to the training they received as Choristers.

We are recruiting the next generation of Choristers now! Do you know a boy or girl who loves to sing and who would enjoy the finest musical training a child can receive? To find out more or to arrange an informal audition in person or online, please contact King’s Ely’s Admissions Team by calling (01353) 660707 or by emailing admissions@kingsely.org.