A Day to Remember at Cambridge University

Three members of ETS/Chamber Choir, Second Year pupils Sophia A, Calise J and Trinity S, were accepted onto the Cambridge University Choral Experience, where they sampled musical life as a chorister in this iconic choral ‘world’.

Held annually in June, the Cambridge Choral Experience gives talented young singers aged 11–18 an opportunity to experience what it might be like to sing as part of the University’s renowned choral tradition. The day began with vocal workshops, repertoire sessions and admissions talks, offering participants a fascinating insight into both university life and the world of collegiate music-making.

Choral music has a special place at Cambridge, particularly at King’s College, whose choir is internationally celebrated through its annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, broadcast around the world each Christmas. The choir has been shaped by distinguished musicians including Sir David Willcocks and Sir Stephen Cleobury, while composers closely associated with King’s, such as Sir Philip Ledger and Sir John Rutter, have made an enormous contribution to the English choral tradition. To sing in this environment is to become part of a musical heritage that has inspired generations of choristers and composers.

In the afternoon, the girls enjoyed a walking tour of Cambridge and its historic colleges, led by current student singers, before returning for a final rehearsal and performance. Alongside young musicians from across the country, they rehearsed and performed a varied programme of choral music, including works by Anton Bruckner and John Rutter, culminating in a concert for family and friends in one of Cambridge’s magnificent college chapels.

The experience provided an invaluable opportunity to work with expert musicians, meet like-minded singers and gain a first-hand understanding of one of the world’s most celebrated choral traditions. Sophia, Calise and Trinity represented the school superbly, demonstrating enthusiasm, dedication and musical excellence throughout the day.

Congratulations to all three pupils on their successful participation in this inspiring and prestigious event.