ELY Cathedral choristers have been taking time out of their busy schedules to help spread some Christmas cheer in the Ely area.
The festive season is without a doubt the busiest time of year for the boy choristers, all of whom are pupils at King’s Ely. However, that has not stopped them finding time to visit local care homes and day centres to sing carols and yuletide songs to the elderly residents – and enjoying the odd mince pie with them!
Dressed in their scarlet gowns, the choristers visited Vera James House care home in Ely, Bedford House day centre in Ely and Littleport Grange Nursing Home.
Director of Music at Ely Cathedral, Paul Trepte, said: “The boy choristers sing to huge audiences in the cathedral Christmas concerts and services, but they also love to go out in small groups to sing in nursing homes and day centres. It’s not just because they get spoilt with mince pies and chocolates afterwards! The boys really do understand that they can contribute something very special by singing for people who are unlikely to be able to get to the cathedral. I think it’s one of the most important things we do at this time of year.”
King’s Ely pupils can become cathedral choristers from the age of 7 in Year 3. It is an experience that will stay with them throughout their lives. For many, it will also mark the beginning of a successful and fulfilling musical career.