The Choir of St Mary's Church, Nottingham

Choral Scholarships

The St Mary's Choral Scholars Trust awards ten choral scholarships in Nottingham each year for students over the age of 18 in further and higher education. Choral Scholars enjoy the following benefits:

• up to £800 choral scholarship per annum, (paid in arrears each term)
• additional fees from weddings, funerals etc.
• choral masterclasses with some of the country's best choral directors (2008 Edward Higginbottom, 2009 Jeremy Jackman, 2010 David Hill)
• subsidised singing lessons
• international tours

The diverse and extensive repertoire coupled with the regular programme of three services per week ensure that all choral scholars will further their musical experience and ability.

Each choral scholar is expected to rehearse and sing the mid-week service (usually a Wednesday Evensong), attend a weekly rehearsal for an hour and sing both Sunday morning and evening services. In addition, there are a few extra services and concerts throughout the year, and scholars have the chance of singing at weddings and funerals as part of the Choir rota for such events for additional fees.

Such a commitment demands both good voices and a reasonable sight-reading ability. The Choral Scholarships are available for Bass, Tenor, Countertenor, and Female Soprano voices, and are awarded solely on merit throughout the year.

Although the award is usually for one year, some choral scholars apply on a termly or semester basis. Choral scholarships are obtained by audition and interview, and choral scholars are welcomed to apply for further awards in subsequent years.

For further information about Choral Scholarships please contact John Keys, Director of Music, by email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   

You can also download a Choral Scholarship application form.

Choral Scholarship Patrons: Sir Andrew Buchanan Bt Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire; Professor John Morehen, JP Emeritus Professor of Music, Nottingham University.

Testimonials

To read testimonials from previous choral scholars, click here

Frequently Asked Questions

For a list of FAQs regarding the Choral Scholarship Scheme, click here

Resident Choir

In addition to the Choral Scholars, the choir is made up of a number of experienced voluntary singers who sing both during and outside of the academic term. More than half of the resident choir are previous Choral Scholars of St Mary's and other institutions. A high standard of musical ability is maintained and any potential choir members are requested to contact the This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information about auditioning.