Safeguarding and Welfare
We are dedicated to safeguarding the wellbeing of children and all adults who may be vulnerable- including worshippers, visitors, clergy, staff and volunteers. Find out more
For urgent safeguarding concerns contact the emergency services (999) or the Cathedral Constables at 01227 866237 - located by the main entrance to the Precincts, Christ Church Gate.
UPDATE: Our phone systems are currently still down, due to technical issues.
If you have any queries, please email [email protected]
Remember to check our opening times and upcoming closures.
Join the Choir
Children
For children with a love of singing, there can be few more rewarding experiences than being a Chorister at Canterbury Cathedral.
The next round of auditions will take place in Summer 2026.
For more information about this unique and life-changing experience, please read our Chorister Information booklet (PDF) and contact the Director of Music, David Newsholme.
Join the Choir
Adults
The Cathedral Choir includes twelve adult singers who take the alto, tenor and bass voice parts. These positions are held by a mixture of permanent professional singers (Lay Clerks) and early career singers (Choral Scholars).
Lay Clerk positions are advertised from time to time on our Vacancies page.
Choral Scholars ordinarily spend a year living together in shared accommodation within the Precincts and working at the Cathedral, during which time they hone their vocal and musical skills and experience. Positions are advertised annually in the Spring Term and are open to altos, tenors and basses. Prospective candidates are warmly invited to contact the Director of Music, David Newsholme for an informal discussion about the role.
Additionally, the Cathedral offers an opportunity each year to an organist who is at an early stage in their career. The Organ Scholar lives in shared accommodation with the Choral Scholars, plays the organ at services on a regular basis, and gains invaluable experience of all aspects of the Cathedral’s musical life. The Organ Scholar position is advertised annually in September. Prospective candidates are warmly invited to contact the Director of Music, David Newsholme for an informal discussion about the role.
The Cathedral maintains a list of Deputy Lay Clerks who are available to sing in the Choir if a Lay Clerk or Choral Scholar is absent. Deputy Lay Clerks are generally singers with extensive professional experience. Prospective candidates are warmly invited to contact the Director of Music, David Newsholme.
