Passing on the Magic Tissues - Helen Reynolds Says Farewell to Her Role as Senior School Tutor to Boy Choristers
September 19, 2024
"For the past 5 years it has been my honour and privilege to have been the Senior School Tutor to the Boy Choristers. It was a path I never thought I would walk or a world which I would ever be involved with. The path led me to one of the most rewarding journeys of my working life.
The daily life of a Boy Chorister is one of commitment and dedication. Alongside a full school day, the boys rehearse before school, after school and sing Choral Evensong three evenings a week. On Sundays, you will find them at the Cathedral rehearsing, prior to morning Service, taking a full part in the morning Service, and then returning early afternoon for rehearsal and Choral Evensong. It has always amazed me how, at such a young age, they manage to juggle their school academic, co-curricular and sporting commitments alongside commitments to their outside interests of Scouts and sports clubs etc.
As well as singing for the Cathedral services, they also perform several Concerts throughout the year. The Christmas Concerts are always a treat, and I have been fortunate to attend their Concert in London which is in aid of the SUCCESS Charity. It has also been an experience to attend a live BBC Radio 3 broadcast of Choral Evensong, recorded at Norwich Cathedral. A proud moment for all concerned.
As you would expect, the Choristers are very musically gifted. I have always tried to support the Choristers, both serving and Ex-Choristers, when they have performed in Concerts and competitions at the school. Two notably gifted musically talented Ex-Choristers, whose musical journeys I will always follow are Tristan McCardel (ON) and Isaac Schaad, L5.
The incredibly talented music staff at the Cathedral have also been part of why I have loved doing the role. The Master of Music, Ashley Grote, whose musical skill and talent is quite amazing, always directs the music with professionalism and personal dedication to his art. David Dunnet is a joy to listen to when he is playing either the piano, during morning rehearsal, or Cathedral organ for services. Robbie Carrol is such a talented young man who has a great career ahead of him.
My decision to step down as Tutor to the Choristers was not an easy decision to make. I felt it was time to pass on the Magic Tissues, used to mop up the tears when everything is too much for the little, and not so little Choristers. I am delighted that Connor Collerton now has the packet of Magic Tissues. I have enjoyed meeting the Chorister families who sacrifice so much to enable their child to be a Chorister. In my early days in the role I was so grateful to Jane Neville and Harriet Griffiths, who provided me with so much insight into the life of the Choristers, and were so supportive. My grateful thanks to those who have supported me and had faith in me undertaking the role, especially Cheryl Wood. Cheryl’s unfailing support and encouragement was so valuable to me.
My final, and most heartfelt thanks, go to all the Choristers who I have been Tutor to. I have been privileged to be part of their very special world and witness their talent, commitment and dedication. They have given me so much joy.
There is no better way to start the day than by attending the Choristers morning rehearsal and to hear their very special music making. A part of my daily life which I will miss very much."
