13-18 Senior Chorister Scholarships

Parallel senior chorister programmes for girls and boys aged 13–18 sit at the heart of Truro Cathedral Choir, offering an exceptional musical education during one of the most important stages of a young singer’s development.

This is a unique opportunity to train and perform at the highest level within one of the UK’s leading cathedral choirs. Singers benefit from expert vocal coaching and the chance to perform regularly in a world-class musical environment. Alongside technical development, choristers grow in confidence, discipline, teamwork and leadership, becoming part of a close and ambitious musical community.

Senior choristers rehearse three times each week: two gender-specific sessions focused on vocal development, and one combined rehearsal that brings the senior choristers together. This structure ensures individualised support while maintaining the unity, identity and shared excellence of the Cathedral Choir.

Alongside their Cathedral commitment, choristers remain fully involved in Truro School’s wider musical life, performing in ensembles and choirs across the community. Major Cathedral services and performances remain a highlight of the musical calendar and a defining part of the experience.

“This exciting development ensures that every chorister is supported in the way that best nurtures their vocal potential,” said James Anderson-Besant, Director of Music at Truro Cathedral. “By introducing parallel programmes, we can offer focused training during a time of change, while preserving the collaborative spirit at the heart of our choir.”

What are the benefits of being a senior chorister?

• Performing music by great composers with an outstanding choir directed by specialist professional musicians in one of the South West’s finest buildings.
• Taking part in live broadcasts for television and radio, CD recordings and foreign tours.
• Receiving scholarships and bursaries to support an education at Truro School.
• Developing leadership skills in a supportive environment with a great deal of individual attention.
• Working as part of a close team with a special purpose and a strong sense of identity.

How does the selection process work?

The senior chorister auditions take place at Truro School in January, followed by Truro School’s entrance exam. Experienced staff from the Cathedral assess each application carefully to decide whether a senior chorister place is right for the student and the Choir.

Prospective senior choristers are asked to prepare a song of their choice that shows off their voice well. They will be assessed on their voice, sight-reading ability, ear and general aptitude (for example, concentration and commitment). Prospective senior choristers must also pass the school’s academic selection criteria.

What scholarships and bursaries are available?

Senior choristers receive a 15% scholarship at Truro School, with additional means-tested bursaries available up to 100%. Support is designed to ensure that entry is based on musical ability and potential, not financial background. Bursaries will aim to make the school fees affordable for applicants of any financial background, but parents will be expected to make some sacrifices. Bursaries are reviewed annually and will be adjusted if parental circumstances change. Truro School’s Chief Operating Officer will be pleased to discuss this aspect of a Chorister application at any stage.

The commitment runs from Year 9 to Year 13, offering continuity, progression and outstanding musical development throughout the senior school years.

Bursaries will aim to make the school fees affordable for applicants of any financial background, but parents will be expected to make some sacrifices. Bursaries are reviewed annually and will be adjusted if parental circumstances change. Truro School’s Chief Operating Officer will be pleased to discuss this aspect of a Chorister application at any stage.

The commitment they undertake is from Year 9 to Year 13 inclusive.

Choristers Through the Years

Truro Cathedral has had a choir in the form of boys and men since it first opened its doors in 1887.

In 2015, the Cathedral Choir welcomed the addition of a girl chorister programme for girls aged 13-18.

In 2025, the junior chorister programme for children aged 8-13 became mixed gender, opening up this foundational stage of choral training to both boys and girls.

In 2026, the senior chorister programme introduced a parallel programme for girls and boys aged 13–18. This evolution reflected both the natural development of young voices and a shared commitment to offering high-quality, inclusive musical opportunities.

Boarding at Truro School

Truro School offers boarding between the ages of 11 and 18. Visit our boarding pages for more information.