The Choir School, in which the choristers live and work, is situated in the precincts of Westminster Cathedral. It was part of the original foundation, in 1895, and rapidly achieved a reputation for excellence in the daily singing of the liturgy.
Although it specialises in the sacred polyphony of the Renaissance period, the choir also sings works by modern composers. Many, including Benjamin Britten, have written works especially for it.
The choir's first recording was in 1908. Its most recent series on the Hyperion label has won prizes from British and foreign critics. It also broadcasts frequently on radio and television. In 1991 a live relay of its work was broadcast to thirty-five countries via the European Broadcasting Union. In February 1994 it sang the Requiem Mass of Palestrina to mark the fourth centenary of the composer's death. This was transmitted throughout the world.
As well as singing daily at cathedral services, the choir gives frequent concerts. These have included performances in Britain, at The Royal Albert and Festival Halls, and many concert tours throughout Europe. In 1987 it sang for a Papal Mass at St. Peter's in Rome, and, in 1992, sang at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, to inaugurate its newly-restored organ.
The choir is made up of boy choristers and adult lay clerks. The boys achieve entry by audition and enquiries concerning choristerships are always welcomed by the headmaster.
