Charlie Collier has been appointed as Head Chorister this year. In this blog, he shares why he enjoys being in the Norwich Cathedral Choir and what it's like being Head Chorister:

"I became a Chorister in Lower 3, when I was eight years old. My music teacher spotted that I enjoyed singing, so I went to an audition for the Cathedral Choir. I joined the Choir and soon found that I enjoyed both the choral music and my part in the singing. You learn by help and support from the older choristers, learning music theory and individual singing lessons from a singing teacher. Like all other Choristers, I started off as a probationer. But I soon became a full Chorister and after about 18 months in the choir, I sang my first solo.

Every week day I go to the Song School at the Cathedral for morning rehearsals before School. We sing Evensong three times a week and have two services on Sunday. We also sing at special occasions in the Cathedral, for example memorial services. I have been lucky to take part in some spectacular services, like the enthronement of the Bishop of Norwich, Christmas concerts and processions and Bach’s St John’s and St Matthew’s passions.

Every few years the Choir goes on tour. In 2019 we went to Regensburg in Southern Germany and sang in some wonderful churches, cathedrals and basilicas.

I was surprised to be appointed Head Chorister this year. I really didn’t see it coming. As Head Chorister I lead the boys singing and help the probationers and younger Choristers to find their feet. I remember how helpful and reassuring comments and help from older Choristers was when I was a probationer so I think it is important that I do the same now."