Gloucester Cathedral to recruit girl choristers

Gloucester Cathedral's choir was established by Henry VIII in 1539

Girls are being invited to audition to join Gloucester Cathedral's Choir for the first time in its 477 year history.

The choir was established by Henry VIII in 1539 and is currently made up of 20 boys and 12 adults.

The Dean of Gloucester said including girl choristers would be an "exciting new chapter" in the choir's history.

The aim is to find youngsters from local schools and a range of backgrounds who may not have considered singing in a cathedral choir before.

Girl choristers will be drawn from local schools, much like the cathedral's youth choir

Adrian Partington, director of music at Gloucester Cathedral, said the aim is to "discover" some very talented girls.

New recruits will play a full part in the cathedral's musical worship, beginning with rehearsals in September before singing at evensong each Monday from October as well as at Christmas and Easter services.

The choir currently consists of 20 boys and 12 adults and dates back to the one established by Henry VIII in 1539

The dean, the Very Reverend Stephen Lake, said: "This will ensure that young girls and boys will be lifting their voices in song at Gloucester Cathedral for many years to come."

The cathedral is hosting a "come and sing" open day on 9 April with girls and boys aged between seven and 12 invited to experience singing in the cathedral.

Auditions for girls will be held on 23 April.