Choral Scholars

The collective vocal heft of the ensemble's young choral scholars remains a potent weapon

Classic FM Magazine 2012

Choral Scholars at the Coronation Service

The Alto, Tenor and Bass parts are usually taken by around 15 Undergraduates at St John's and at other colleges, who are known as Choral Scholars. Choral Scholars study a variety of subjects (all are available except Architecture, Medicine and Veterinary Medicine).

Choral and Organ Scholars often go on to highly successful musical careers: Alumni include Simon Keenlyside, Iestyn Davies and Allan Clayton (singers), John Scott, David Hill and Stephen Cleobury (conductors).

All Choral Scholars at St John’s sing in their own self-directed ensemble, the Gents of St John's. The group performs separately at around 30 external engagements per year, as well as hosting their famous Garden Party and performing the final set at the St John's May Ball. They have also recorded their own albums, including their most recent release White Christmas (2017). 

If you are interested in singing with the Choir, please visit our Becoming a Choral Scholar page.

The main choir's offshoot, the sparkling Gents of St John's, do sharp business with close harmony arrangements.

Fiona Maddocks at The Observer

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Recorded on
19 October 2023
  • Introit - Parsons: Ave Maria
  • Responses and Preces: Radcliffe
  • Psalm 25.1-8
  • Readings: Isaiah 40, 1-11, Luke 1, 57-66, 80
  • Jackson in G
  • MacMillan: Christus Vincit
  • Voluntary: Langlais, Acclamations (Suite Medievale)

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