The visit of the Choir of St Mary’s to Canterbury Cathedral in August was the first annual choir trip in which I had taken part, despite having joined the choir over four years ago. Had I known how much fun it was, I would have gone before.
The trip began early on Monday morning 21 Aug.
With far more luggage than was needed for one week, we piled excitedly onto the bus (kindly provided by Altrincham Preparatory School) for the journey down.
Many songs and jokes later we arrived at our wonderful Christ Church University accommodation, a stone’s throw from the cathedral.
We sang for seven services and performed a wide range of music. Two of my personal musical highlights were the intimate Abendlied by Rheinberger and the larger Hear my Prayer by Mendelssohn.
During the course of the week we were able to have a tour of the cathedral, where we learnt about its history, and a candlelit pilgrimage tour. These made it even more special in which to sing.
On our day off we caught the train to Margate, a seaside town where we could play in the sea and go on Britain’s oldest rollercoaster! The most important thing I gained from the trip was making wonderful new friends – many from Mellor Choir, who joined us for the whole week.
St Mary’s Choir to me is like an extended, nurturing family. My love of choral music, as well as the extensive knowledge that our choirmaster Michael imparts, and the confidence that I have gained, have definitely played a part in my gaining a place at Chetham’s School of Music.
Our choir is incredibly unique and, although we came back tired, I have no doubt that we are all refreshed, ready to learn more music and to welcome new choir members.
India Lord, aged 16