Chimes: Music for children aged 1-5
We welcome pre-school aged children from babies and toddlers to those who have already started nursery. Children and their carers take part in musical activities, games and songs. They are encouraged to sing, play, explore and listen to music. All activities are designed to introduce your child to the elements of music: pulse, rhythm, pitch, dynamics, and texture. Whilst having fun, the children are not only developing the foundations of musicianship but also their confidence, motor skills and language skills.
Chimes details
Venue: The Chorister School next to the Cathedral
When: Saturdays - 9am
Cost: £45 per term
Minstrels: Music for children aged 5-7
The Minstrels learn and have fun through singing and musicianship games. Children sing a wide variety of songs and play music games to encourage social interaction, physical co-ordination and self-confidence.They learn to pitch simple melodies in their heads, and grasp basic pulse and rhythm.
Minstrels details
Venue: The Chorister School next to the Cathedral
When: Saturdays 9am – 9.45am
Cost: £45 per term
Durham Cathedral Young Singers (DCYS) Training Choir: For children aged 8 - 11
This is a traditional choir, learning songs for concerts and performances. It regularly performs in Durham Cathedral. There is a focus on developing the ability to sing in parts using rounds and canons as a starting point. It also builds on the singers’ knowledge of rhythm and pitch. Singing and rhythm games help enhance musical understanding. The Training Choir will often work with the Chamber Choir to sing more challenging repertoire. It takes part in youth operas and external events such as the National Festival of Music for Youth.
Durham Cathedral Young Singers Training Choir details
Venue: The Chorister School next to the Cathedral
When: Saturdays 10am – 12pm
Cost: £45 per term
Chamber Choir: For children aged 11 - 13
The Chamber Choir regularly takes part in special concerts, festivals and other large events.Past performances include Durham Mystery Plays and participating in the Lindisfarne Gospels Choir. During 2015 they took part in an opera based on the Magna Carta.
Chamber Choir details
Venue: The Chorister School next to the Cathedral
When: Saturdays 10am – 12pm
Cost: £45 per term
Primary schools
We have worked with more than 800 local schools to help introduce singing to children.
The Kodály method
The musicianship training used is based on the Kodály method. This was developed in Hungary in the 20th century by composer Zoltán Kodály.
How to find out more For more information on any of our music outreach choirs, please contact music@durhamcathedral.co.uk or 0191 374 4066.