An Unforgettable Scilly Adventure

The recent Truro Cathedral Choir tour to the Isles of Scilly proved far more eventful than originally planned.

Following a busy Holy Week, the group, consisting of Truro Cathedral Choir’s age 8-13 choristers and adult ‘back row’ singers, travelled to St Mary’s. Here, they settled into a programme of rehearsals, services and concerts. Highlights from the opening days included singing at a local Memory Café (a social group for those with dementia), performing evensong to a large congregation at St Mary’s Church, and giving a well-received concert on the island of Tresco.

However, the tour took an unexpected turn when a technical fault with the Scillonian III meant the choir were unable to return to the mainland as scheduled. The delay, which was even reported by the BBC News, extended their stay from a short visit into a six-day adventure.

Despite the disruption, the choir adapted brilliantly. With the support of the local community, including St Mary’s Church and Five Islands Academy, the group extended their tour with impromptu performances that displayed great confidence and professionalism.

Away from formal performances, pupils enjoyed time exploring the islands, strengthening friendships and embracing island life. The sense of camaraderie that developed and the young choristers’ resilience became the defining features of the trip.

Before returning home, the choir gave a final performance at a local care home and even entertained fellow ferry passengers with informal singing on the quay and ferry.

Staff praised the choristers as outstanding ambassadors for both Truro Cathedral and Truro School, highlighting their musical commitment, adaptability and positive spirit throughout.

What began as a short tour became an extraordinary experience and one that will remain a lasting memory for all involved.