Experiences of the Anglican Choral Tradition: Cultural Value and Potential for Diversity

The Anglican choral tradition has historically been an all-male practice that has depended
upon man and boy for its continuation. Often linked to prestigious choir schools, the Anglican
choral tradition is of significant cultural value with images of choirboys at St Pauls or
Westminster springing to mind. The experience of the Anglican choral tradition from the
perspective of musician, clergy, congregation, and wider community is of cultural
significance. The twentieth and twenty-first centuries have seen a move away from gendered
activities and as a result many musical foundations have made the decision to recruit girl
choristers. Despite this, however, the Anglican choral tradition continues to be largely white
and middle class. In the proposed PhD project, I will explore the musical, religious, and
societal value of the Anglican choral tradition and suggest how this valuable cultural practice
can be made more accessible to a wider demographic.