Wells Cathedral Chorister Fund Exceeds £500,000 to Support Young Talent

A fundraising initiative aimed at ensuring financial barriers do not prevent children from becoming choristers at Wells Cathedral has successfully surpassed its target of £500,000 within two years. The Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust (WCCT) announced that its Coronation Fund, established in 2023, has raised over £500,000 through contributions from individuals and grant-making entities.

Arnold Wills, chair of the WCCT, expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “This is a remarkable sum to have raised in such a short time, reflecting the deep commitment so many people share for the Trust’s mission: ensuring that no talented child is prevented by financial barriers from becoming a Wells Cathedral chorister.” The fund has received significant support from its royal patron, HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh, who has encouraged public contributions to this vital cause.

Transforming Lives Through Music Education

The success of the Coronation Fund will enable the WCCT to cover nearly all costs associated with a chorister’s education, increasing support from over 95% to 100%. Choristers, aged between seven and fourteen, attend Wells Cathedral School, recognized as one of only four government-supported specialist music schools in the UK.

Timothy Parsons, director of music at Wells Cathedral, highlighted the transformative potential of the fund, stating, “It will offer the life-changing opportunity of becoming a chorister at Wells Cathedral to children who otherwise would not be able to consider it.” The initiative aims not only to foster musical talent but also to enrich the spiritual lives of young individuals.

The Trust has scheduled a “Be a chorister for a day” event for families with children aged six to nine on September 20, 2025. Further information is available at wellscathedral.org.uk. Additionally, an annual evensong service will take place on October 11, 2025, at 17:15, celebrating this fundraising achievement. The event will welcome local dignitaries, including Janet Montgomery, the High Sheriff of Somerset; Rt Revd Michael Beesley, Bishop of Bath and Wells; Tessa Munt, Member of Parliament for Wells; and Mohammed Saddiq, the Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset.

Mr. Saddiq remarked on the positive impact of the Trust’s efforts, stating, “The dedication and support they provide truly transforms the lives of the choristers. I couldn’t be more pleased with the incredible work the Trust has accomplished.”

The Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust remains committed to its mission of inclusivity and accessibility in music education, demonstrating that financial constraints should never impede a child’s potential.