A Gloucestershire Cantata: Celebrating Young Voices at Gloucester Cathedral

A joyful lunchtime celebration of young voices in song, as children from across Gloucestershire join together for a world-premiere performance of a special new commission.

This concert will celebrate the work of Gloucester Cathedral’s new Singing Academy, which strives to nurture young voices through a range of inclusive, high‑quality musical opportunities rooted in the Cathedral’s long musical tradition. The Academy encompasses a range of initiatives, including the establishing of partnerships with schools and churches; workshops; the founding of two new choirs at the Cathedral; and new opportunities for broadening of opportunities for the Cathedral’s Junior Choir. Today’s performers include representatives from across many of these initiatives.

Composer Lin Marsh has written a special new cantata for the Singing Academy to enjoy for years to come. Today will be the world-premiere of this special work. Lin is known for writing imaginative, accessible music for young voices. The songs of A Gloucestershire Cantata explore places, landmarks and events associated with the county. Fittingly, the programme begins and ends with songs inspired by the Cathedral, which has stood as a place of prayer and musical excellence for centuries. These young performers continue this tradition here and now. The concert will also feature Michael Hurd’s Swingin’ Samson, a lively and much‑loved jazzy cantata.

For many of the participants, this will be their first time performing at the Cathedral. We warmly invite families, friends, and members of the community to come and support these young performers and share in this vibrant celebration of music and achievement.

Please note: Tickets are free of charge but must be booked in advance due to the likely popularity of this concert. Booking details will be available soon.