WORCESTER Cathedral is preparing to mark a significant milestone this October, celebrating the 150th anniversary of its Voluntary Choir.
Over the past century and a half, this choir has played a crucial role in the musical and cultural life of the city, with generations of children and adults donning the choir’s distinctive blue cassocks to sing during Sunday evening services.
The first service sung by the Voluntary Choir took place on October 11, 1874, and this longstanding tradition continues to this day.
To commemorate the anniversary, the Cathedral is extending an invitation to all former members of the choir, known as ‘Vollers'” to join in the celebrations.
A special Sung Eucharist is scheduled for Sunday, October 13 at 10.30am.
The service will feature a collaborative performance by the Cathedral Choir and the Voluntary Choir, with former Vollers encouraged to participate.
Following the service, a Gala Lunch will be held, offering a chance for past and present members to reconnect and celebrate this momentous occasion together.
Adding to the significance of the day, Worcester Cathedral has commissioned a new anthem from Paul Trepte, the former Director of the Voluntary Choir, to mark the anniversary.
This new piece will be premiered during the service by both the Voluntary Choir and the Cathedral Choir.
Nicholas Freestone, the Cathedral’s Assistant Director of Music and the event’s organiser, said: “We are reliant on word of mouth to let former choir members know about this event, so please do pass this onto any former Vollers you may know.
“It would be wonderful to welcome many former choir members to this special anniversary event.”
If you or someone you know was a member of the Voluntary Choir, you are encouraged to sign up to sing in the service and/or attend the Gala Lunch by visiting the Worcester Cathedral’s website at worcestercathedral.org.uk/vollers150.
