Becoming a Cathedral Chorister
Confidence, independent learning, listening, motivation, and a dedication to high standards are qualities which become second nature, and stay for life.
The choristers are educated at the Cathedral Choir School (a co-educational National School) which is renowned for the excellence of its teaching staff and its friendliness.
Small classes mean a focus and care for each child. It is also unique in being the only choir school in the country, as well as being the oldest school in Ireland.
NB Due to the choir’s busy timetable, all choristers must attend the Choir School.
Opportunities
In recent years, our choristers have performed regularly on live television and radio, in front of VIPs (including the President of Ireland and the Pope), and on the stage of the Gaiety Theatre and the National Concert Hall, with both the National Symphony and RTÉ Concert Orchestras.
They have also toured extensively including most recently the US, and recorded six critically-acclaimed CDs, the most recent of which was released in 2023.
Admission
Before becoming a chorister, your child will undergo a voice trial. This is a very simple exercise to determine vocal potential. We normally ask them to sing something easy, such as Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. This is followed by an informal chat with the parents.
“My experience at Saint Patrick’s gave my life as a musician a positive sense of direction and purpose it could not otherwise have had. I’d do it all again in a flash!”
Peter McMahon (Chorister 1979–82; Theatre Director, Hamburg, Germany)
A Guide for Parents
Want to learn even more? Download one of our parental guides.
Girl Chorister Handbook
Boy Chorister Handbook
How to Apply
Do you want to organise a voice trial for your child?
Fill out a registration of interest form and we will contact you to arrange an audition.
