22 February 2010

The first rehearsal of the newly formed boys’ choir at Reading Minster of St Mary the Virgin takes place this Wednesday (February 24th).

The event coincides with National Sing Up Day, a Government project aimed at getting school children singing. The choir of boys aged seven to 12 has been formed by the new assistant organist Peter West.

Mr West said: “The Minster is the main church for Berkshire. It hasn’t had a boys’ or mens’ choir since 1974 and it’s missing something in a way. Most of the choirs in the Reading area are mixed and very few boys are members. Boys’ and mens’ choirs are a great tradition, dating back hundreds of years, but it is a struggle to find male singers for choirs so we need to do more to encourage boys to sing.”

Mr West recruited boys for the choir through local schools. He had 32 take part in voice trials and 18 have registered as members, with another five on the waiting list.

“We held an open day rehearsal and boys and their parents came along to the Minster together. They explored the Minster and went inside our 150-year-old organ as well. It was very exciting.

“Having the choir is a way of welcoming people into church who wouldn’t normally come along. The boys bring along their families and friends and it is a way of including younger people.”

Rector, Canon Brian Shenton, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that with the help of Mr West, the possibility of a choir at the Minster is becoming a reality after so long. I wish the choir every success.”