WINCHESTER Cathedral is preparing for the next Be a Chorister event this weekend. 

On February 24, girls in years five, six and seven will be welcomed by the cathedral music department and parents of existing choir members in the search of their next intake of choristers. It is approaching its silver anniversary of 25 years.

Last year Élise Ramroop attended the event, only having moved to Winchester some three months before from London. 

Her mum thought it would be a great way for her to meet girls of all ages as she settled into the area.

She said: “When my mum suggested we go to the Be a Chorister event, I wasn’t eager at all. I wasn’t a singer at the time, but I am so happy I went. I felt really proud to sing at the cathedral, and lots of the attention was on the prospective choristers so I felt very cared about.”

During the day girls attend a fun warm up workshop and do singing exercises. They learn a song to sing and get to perform it with the choir at evensong.

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Élise’s mum Susie Ramroop said: “I’m glad I stretched Élise to try this afternoon. I encouraged her to be open minded and just enjoy herself. It was lovely sitting in on the workshop and seeing all those bright faces learning something new and enjoying the experience wide-eyed under the incredible leadership of the cathedral team.”

Élise said: “When I left the cathedral that day, I couldn’t wait to go back. I was lucky enough to be invited to audition and I got in. I have settled in really quickly. I have made friends, and I am working on singing more confidently – it’s a lot more fun this way.

“I recommend attending this day even if you don’t think you want to be in the choir. It’s a great experience, and if you like it, it is a good way to be exposed to alternative types of music that you may never have sung before. And we’re really friendly.”

Founded in 1999, the choir is made up of around 20 girls aged 11-18, all from schools in the Winchester and Hampshire area. People can hear them singing a weekly Sunday service during term time, which is live streamed; at services and concerts at Easter and Christmas; and on tours, recordings and broadcasts.

The event will be held on Saturday, February 24 from 2.30pm to 6.30pm. To book a place, email: choirs@winchester-cathedral.org.uk.

Auditions to become a girl chorister will take place on Saturday, March 23. For more details, visit winchester-cathedral.org.uk/event/be-a-chorister-for-an-afternoon-feb/.