The Diocese of Leeds Schools Singing Programme is recognised as the UK’s leading choral singing provision, reaching 4,000 children weekly, both during and outside the school day in around 100 choral groups. These include the six choirs of Leeds Cathedral and Boys’ and Girls’ Choirs in Bradford, Keighley, Huddersfield, Wakefield and Pontefract.
We focus on areas of social marginalisation and economic deprivation, striving to offer the best musical opportunities in those communities least likely to encounter them. Our Choral Directors work in 53 state schools, which enthuse about the benefits gained by children in academic and behavioural outcomes. Although our work is closely linked to the Diocese’s programme of music and performance, there is no requirement of faith and we work with young people from all faiths and none; using the discipline of choral music to provide an excellent standard of training and inspiration.
To date, our Programme has inspired over 25,000 young people, aged 5-21. Many progress through our system of after-school choirs rehearsing weekly and performing regularly at Leeds Cathedral and other prestigious venues. Last year, our choirs broadcast eight services on BBC Radio 3 and 4. Our Bradford Choirs perform and record with the Gabrieli Consort and will be broadcasting the Christmas Day service on BBC One this year. We maintain a consistent level of good practice and our team are frequently requested to act as advisers to other UK and American institutions on the establishment and ongoing management of music programmes for young people.
Click here for Schools Singing Programme brochure.
‘I joined Bradford Youth Choir at 9 years old. During my 7 years as a choir member I had the opportunity to travel to Germany, take part in many competitions and make life long friends and memories. BYC inspired me and nurtured me as a musician and led me to Leeds College of Music where I am currently studying for a degree.’
JM, Schools Singing Programme Alumni
‘I’ve been here at the cathedral for the last seven and half years, one of the Choral Directors came into my primary school and asked if I would like to join the Children’s Choir and I’ve been here ever since. Singing in the Cathedral Choirs has definitely made me more confident, I’ve built the confidence to sing in front of other people and I think that translates across because now I feel a lot more comfortable to talk in front of other people as well…I’ve made some great friends here and I’d love to become a scholar in the adult choir.’ Girls’ Choir Member, 15 years old.
Upcoming Events
Finished my three peaks challenge today with the help of my lovely Dad! Thanks very much to everyone who has already donated to the fundraiser. If you haven't, it's still open! https://justgiving.com/campaign/bcycrometour now waiting for @thomas_leech's update... @DOLMusic
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Please donate if you have a couple of spare £. The kids had the trip of a lifetime and they will never ever forget singing at some of the most beautiful churches in the world 🎶 https://twitter.com/DOLMusic/status/1191689309457461251
Highlights of our Rome tour with Bradford Catholic Youth Choir...Mass at the Basilica of San Paolo fuori le mura - singing under the 5th century mosaics and with the tomb of St Paul, preceded by a visit to the Pontifical College Beda for afternoon tea and rehearsal.
3One of the highlights of singing mass at St Peter's Basilica was our cathedral organ scholar Anthony conducting the choir - Anthony joined the choir 11 years ago as a treble, and is now studying music at Huddersfield University. Donate to our tour fund: https://justgiving.com/campaign/bcycrometour
4Lovely singing for the All Saints' Mass at @vecrome from BCYC this morning - thank you for having us! #bcycrome
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Wonderful to see our newest choir - the Calderdale Catholic Schools Choir - in action tonight! Their first Christmas Concert after only 5 weeks singing together, and they made a fantastic sound! 🎶
A busy start to the week! The Cathedral Choirs sounded fabulous in their Carol Service at Leeds Cathedral on Sunday and Concert at Leeds Town Hall on Monday. Looking forward to another busy weekend as the Parish of St Maximilian Kolbe Children's Choir sing their first ever Carol Service with the Cathedral Junior Choirs this Sunday 15th at 4pm!
Today at Leeds Cathedral:
5.30 pm Mass (Girls)
Missa XVIII, Gregorian
Stella splendens, Llibre vermell
O mysterium ineffabile, Lalouette
Today at Leeds Cathedral:
5.10pm Vespers (Boys)
Magnificat tonus solemnis, Gregorian
5.30 pm Mass (Cantor)
Missa XVIII, Gregorian
Rehearsals are underway for our Christmas concert at Leeds Town Hall later. Join us at 1pm for a festive performance including Britten’s Ceremony of Carols and other seasonal favourites!