the choristers

Reigate St Mary's is one of a small number of schools maintaining a traditional cathedral style choir of boys and lay clerks led by a full-time Master of Choristers. The Godfrey Searle Choir sings at least four services each week in school, in churches or cathedrals. The repertoire includes music from the 15th to the 21st centuries. In addition to regular services in St. Mary's Church, Reigate,and Tandridge Parish Church, the choir has recently sung in Chichester, Guildford and Westminster Cathedrals, Lambeth Palace, Croydon Parish Church, the Queen's Chapel of the Savoy, and St Alban's, Holborn.

Choristership is challenging and exciting, and develops not only musicianship but also self-confidence. Choristers train intensively to achieve the highest standards, rehearsing and performing for some ten hours each week during term time. Care is taken to ensure that singing fits in with each chorister's academic studies and sporting fixtures.

Entrance to the choir, normally from the age of eight, is by initial voice trial followed by a probationary period. Choral scholarships are offered by the Godfrey Searle Choir Trust and may be up to 50% of school fees. These are transferable to Reigate Grammar School at age 11 (conditional upon securing a place at the school) for boys who continue to sing treble.

CLICK HERE» to listen to the choir performing Faire is the heaven by William Harris

Parents interested in choristership for their son are invited to contact the Master of Choristers, John Tobin, on 01737 271128 or johntobin497@msn.com