Choristerships
Chorister Recruitment
For a boy who enjoys music, to be a Chorister in one of the world's most famous choirs and to have the honour of singing in a setting as sublime as Magdalen College Chapel, is a life-changing and unforgettable experience.
Not only will he receive the finest musical training that you, or he, could wish for, but he will benefit from the discipline, maturity and prefessionalism that is an integral part of the life of a Chorister and which will serve him for the rest of his life.
The sixteen boy Choristers are educated at Magdalen College School, which is close to the College (just across Magdalen Bridge), where they enjoy a generous fee remission.
Two to four boys usually join the Choir each year as Probationers, typically at the beginning of Year 4 or 5. At this point they may have already been in the school for a year, or may move from another school.
Prospective Choristers are auditioned by the Director of Chapel Music, Daniel Hyde. This usually takes place in October and January, although Mr Hyde is always happy to hear boys at other times of the year, informally, as well. He looks for boys aged 7-8, with musical potential and enthusiasm for singing; they do not necessarily need extensive musical experience or qualifications. Chorister applicants must also fulfil the academic admission requirements of Magdalen College School.
Parents who wish their sons to be considered for a Choristership should complete the on-line recruitment form, following which decisions will be made according to the admissions procedure.
For more information please see the Chorister recruitment brochure and the information for Chorister parents.
You are also welcome to contact the Chapel and Choir Administrator, Jacky Barratt. We are always happy to answer questions from interested parents and their sons.