HCS Chapel Choir lead Evensong at St Paul's Cathedral

Fifty members of Hereford Cathedral School’s Chapel Choir were privileged to lead evensong at St Paul’s Cathedral in London on Tuesday.

St Paul’s is one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks, attracting thousands of visitors each day. The service was led by the Dean of St Paul’s and accompanied on the organ by HCS Head of Academic Music, Mr Andrew Semple, who was a former Head Chorister at St Paul’s as a boy.

Singing to a congregation of almost 300 people, the choir performed music by Herbert Howells, Charles Villiers Stanford and Joanna Forbes L’Estrange.

Many members of the public commented on the high-quality singing and professionalism of the choir.

Joint Head of School, Isabelle M, commented: “Singing evensong in St Paul’s Cathedral was a truly special experience. The echoes are amazing, it was lovely to see so many friendly faces in the congregation, and I’m so happy that all of our hard work paid off.” Meanwhile, Joint Head of School, Will C added: “Having joined HCS with little musical experience, the ability to sing Evensong at St Paul’s Cathedral is a credit to the opportunities provided not just by the Music Department but the whole school. The open and inclusive nature of the School’s Chapel Choir allows for all students at HCS to share in these experiences.”

Deputy Head of School, Alex G, said: “With the site’s rich history and the buildings unmatched acoustics, singing evensong at St Paul’s Cathedral was a fabulous experience.”

Congratulations to all the pupils involved.

Photos: Alistair Veryard