St Chad's College Choir
University of Durham

Choral Scholarships

The College offers Choral Scholarships each year. The Choral Scholars are appointed by the Principal on the recommendation of the Director of Music, and are responsible to the Director of Music.

 

The Choral Scholars are expected to play a full and central role in the life of the Choir. In addition to singing at the various Choral services in Chapel, the Choral Scholars will also be encouraged to play a role in the shared management of the Choir, for example by periodically sharing responsibilities such as Choir Librarian and Choir Secretary. Concerts and tours take place regularly throughout the year, and occasional visits are made during term.

 

Choral Scholars need to be enthusiastic and committed. Rehearsals occur on Friday evenings, on Sunday mornings before the Sung Eucharist, before mid-week Choral Evensong or Compline, and before each special service. There is also Choir Saturday each term when the choir spends a Saturday afternoon in rehearsal before an evening of social recreation.  This schedule, nevertheless, leaves ample time for the well-organized to pursue their academic studies fully as well as to involve themselves in other activities, such as sport, acting, debating, or playing in orchestras.

 

Choral scholars are required to play a full part in College music. In particular, they may be asked to perform in the College concert series.

 

On average a choral scholars may expect to put in up to six hours per week during term, and extra in a week where there is a major service or concert.

 

In return, the College provides each Choral Scholar with an annual scholarship, currently valued at £225 in the first year and rising to £300 when a position arises for a Choral Scholar to take on extra duties in either the second or third year (such as Librarian, Tour Secretary etc...).

 

Choral Scholars are appointed for the duration of their degree course, although the Principal and the Director of Music reserve the right to remove an award if a satisfactory commitment and contribution are not being made.

 

Auditions consist of vocal and ear tests, and sight reading. A good ear, ability to sing in tune, a ‘true’ voice with the potential for blend, good sight-reading and genuine motivation, are all qualities which will be tested.

 

Potential Applicants are encouraged to contact the Director of Music for further information.