If your child loves to sing, Buckfast Abbey is inviting boy or girl choristers aged 7–12 to audition for its choir. The Abbey provides a generous scholarship for each chorister which covers the cost of receiving a superb musical education.

All that is required for the auditions is a love of singing and a willingness to commit to the choir’s schedule of rehearsals and services.

What choristers can look forward to: here’s a quick overview.

• Performing at regular services and high-profile concerts in the Abbey and around the local area.
• Annual summer tours around the country — recent tours have included Liverpool and York — with the first foreign tour planned for 2025.
• Expert training with Robert Pecksmith, Assistant Master of the Music at Buckfast Abbey.

The choristers are trained by Robert Pecksmith, Assistant Master of the Music at Buckfast Abbey. Dr Pecksmith commented: “There will be many families in the area whose son or daughter has real musical promise, and who will benefit from the chance to become a chorister with us.”

“All we are looking for is some innate musicality and a spark in their eye.”

“In addition to developing musical skills, choristers also acquire lifelong skills such as self-discipline, concentration, good organisation, and attention to detail. And all this happens while playing a part in the life of one of the most beautiful and inspiring buildings in Devon.”

The Rt Rev David Charlesworth, Abbot of Buckfast Abbey, said: “The choir enriches and enhances our liturgical life by drawing on the great heritage of church music. It also offers choristers wonderful educational opportunities as well as much fun and a sense of achievement. I encourage you and your families to find out more and consider an application.”

Buckfast Abbey is conveniently located midway between Exeter and Plymouth, just off the A38. Home to a community of Benedictine monks, the Abbey offers a unique, tranquil ambience, and is open seven days a week to the public. For more information about music at Buckfast Abbey visit www.buckfast.org.uk/music.

For contact details and how to enquire about auditions with Buckfast Abbey, please see the Abbey’s entry on our Community Groups page.