EVENSONG SUNG BY THE PREBENDAL SINGERS

The Prebendal Singers was formed in 1982, initially as an SATB choir but within a year became established as an ATB choir, with the majority of singers having previously sung with the Midland Cathedral Singers. Initially the alto line was restricted to male altos only, but the choir amended its policy and added female altos to its ranks in the mid 1980’s. The choir sing services across the country, filling the gap when a cathedral’s choir is absent. During its history, The Prebendal Singers have sung services in over three-quarters of England’s cathedrals. Recent venues have included Hereford, Winchester, Chester and St. Paul’s and in 2024, two of the choir’s engagements will be singing the services for weekends in Durham Cathedral and Westminster Abbey.

The repertoire ranges from the 12^th century until the present day, with several compositions being dedicated to the choir and/or its members. The choir has also undertaken tours of the North of England, Normandy and Belgium, with a further visit planned to the latter in the summer of 2025. One of the particular strengths of The Prebendal Singers is in the singing of psalms, which is frequently commented favourably upon by clergy and staff at venues, as is the sensitivity of the choir towards ensuring music is appropriate to the liturgical season.

Previous conductors have included Nicholas Kok, Andrew Fletcher, Simon Lole, Paul Trepte and Carl Jackson, all of whom have achieved notable successes with choirs across the country. John Pryer has played the organ for us throughout much of the choir’s history, having established himself in the Birmingham area, as assistant organist to Dr Roy Massey at Birmingham Cathedral, before gaining positions which have included St. Chad’s Cathedral, the Birmingham Oratory and more recently, Organist Titulaire at the Alexandra Palace in London.

The choir is currently directed by David Blackwell, a founder member, and accompanied by Tom Corfield, who for many years held the post of organist at Derby Cathedral.

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