Worcester Cathedral has this week launched an appeal and is asking for help in supporting in its world-class music department. The Cathedral choristers are preparing for the start of this year's Three Choirs Festival in Hereford next weekend. 



Music and choirs are an integral part of Cathedral life and after the difficult, silent years of the pandemic, the Cathedral is immersed in music and singing once again. The challenge now is to raise enough funds each year to maintain the Cathedral’s choirs, organs and world-class choral tradition.

Director of Music at Worcester Cathedral, Samuel Hudson, said: “The return of live music has been a collaborative effort and we are grateful to be part of such a supportive community, without whom we would not have survived the trying times of the pandemic.

“I am delighted that we have much to share with you, including our participation in this year’s Three Choirs Festival, our popular lunchtime recitals, and in September the start of another school year when our amazing choirs return to their schedule singing eight Cathedral services per week. The autumn term of course culminates in our Christmas Carol Services, which we know are a highlight of the Cathedral’s calendar for many, as they are for me!

“Music plays a very special role here, and we continue to be enormously thankful for the support we receive. At the start of this academic year, I was privileged to lead a process of significant change to the chorister programme in order to present equal opportunities to boy and girl choristers in the Cathedral Choir.

“At the same time, significant step changes were made to the Cathedral Voluntary Choir, which was opened to all boys and girls from the local area, and we also created a brand new Youth Choir, the first of its kind at the Cathedral. Of course, music is an important part of many strands of the Cathedral’s life, from our bells which ring out in support of the city during times of both sadness and celebration, to regular musical events, festivals and concerts featuring international artists, to performances by local musicians and school children.

“We are proud that Worcester Cathedral makes music for all and enhances the cultural life of the city and region. If you would like to help ensure that music here at the Cathedral can be sustained, strengthened, and developed, then please consider making a gift to our Summer Music Appeal.

“Live music is unparalleled in its ability to bring out the best in those performing, and to create a real energy and excitement for all those listening. I very much hope that you will be able to join with us at one of our upcoming events, services, or concerts.

“In the meantime, please accept in advance my sincere and grateful thanks for any contribution you feel able to make to support our music at this crucial time.” To donate to Worcester Cathedral’s Summer Music Appeal, please visit www.worcestercathedral.co.uk/music2022.