Chorister Voice Trials

Why Become a Chorister

Being part of the Exeter Cathedral Choir is a unique opportunity for children who love music to gain a fantastic musical education as part of a prestigious choir.

Exeter Cathedral Choir has been at the heart of Cathedral life for hundreds of years and plays a key role in daily worship, special occasions and concert performances. Described by Classic FM as “one of the country’s finest choirs,” Exeter Cathedral Choir leads around eight services each week during term time, maintaining a tradition that has been largely unbroken for centuries. Choristers also have the exciting opportunity to take part in concerts, recordings, radio broadcasts and tours! In summer 2025, we went on a hugely successful tour to Normandy and Paris.

What to Expect at a Voice Trial

Candidates may wear any casual, comfortable clothes and should bring the music for their prepared song and any musical instrument(s) as appropriate.

The children will receive an individual audition assessed by Timothy Noon (Director of Music at Exeter Cathedral) and Michael Stephens-Jones (Assistant Director of Music at Exeter Cathedral).

Assessments will include:

• Singing a prepared song or hymn (this does not need to be anything complicated; it should be a song that your child is familiar with and really enjoys singing). It is extremely helpful if children bring the musical accompaniment for their prepared piece with them so that Mr Noon can accompany them;
• Playing a musical instrument if applicable (this is not compulsory);
• Ear tests e.g. singing notes played on the piano; tests of musicality.

We will do our very best to put the children at ease and make the occasion an enjoyable one for them as we want them to do their best and to be relaxed, happy and confident.

The Decision Process

Following the Voice Trial, the Cathedral Director of Music meets with his team and other interested parties, including a member of the Cathedral Clergy to discuss the results of all the assessments.We will hope to inform parents of decisions within one week of the Voice Trial.

It is important to understand that auditions for the Cathedral Choir are necessarily a very selective process and not everyone can succeed. The number of places is strictly limited in any given year and younger candidates may be encouraged to return for a further voice audition the following year if their voices have not yet developed sufficiently. It is also perhaps worthy of note that several of our current and past Choristers had unsuccessful auditions here or elsewhere before they were offered a Choristership.

How to Apply

To arrange a voice trial, please complete the sign up form. If you have any queries about the Chorister Voice Trials, please get in touch with Eleanor Clark, Choir Chaperone and Music Administrator. 

Application Deadline: Friday 16 January 2026