From Bath Abbey Boys’ Choir and Lay Clerks: Bath Abbey Boys’ Choir and Lay Clerks Celebrate 150 Years of Choral Excellence in 2025.
Bath, UK – 2025 marks an extraordinary milestone for Bath Abbey Boys’ Choir and Lay Clerks as they celebrate their 150th anniversary. Since its establishment in 1875, the choir has been a cornerstone of musical excellence, nurturing generations of talented young singers and playing a vital role in preserving Britain’s choral heritage.
To commemorate this landmark year, Bath Abbey Boys’ Choir, alongside the esteemed Lay Clerks, will present a series of spectacular concerts and events throughout 2025, offering audiences the chance to experience the beauty and power of choral music in the heart of Bath.
As part of the celebrations, the choir is also thrilled to announce the release of a special anniversary CD, called Everlasting Light, a testament to its enduring legacy. This recording showcases the choir’s exceptional artistry, featuring a diverse collection of choral works that highlight the depth and richness of boys’ choral singing. The album also includes a composition by the Abbey’s own Organ Scholar, Gavin Phelps, whose remarkable talent has already made a significant mark on the choir’s history. Sign up to be one of the first to hear the full album on 4th July 2025: https://integral.lnk.to/EverlastingLight
Another aspect of these celebrations includes the Boys’ Choir and Lay Clerks visiting one of the most ancient and beautiful Christian sights in the UK, singing at St David’s Cathedral, Pembrokeshire, on the 30th & 31st May and 1st June.
From its early days as part of the Bath Charity Schools in the 18th century to its transformation into a fully trained and robed ensemble in 1875, Bath Abbey Boys’ Choir has continually evolved while staying true to its mission of musical excellence. Over the years, it has shaped the careers of professional musicians, singers, and cathedral organists, while also instilling lifelong skills and values in all who have been part of this extraordinary institution.
Bath Abbey Choirs – Major Concerts & Events in 2025:
- St. John Passion by J.S. Bach – 16th April (Girls and Lay Clerks)
- Stainer’s Crucifixion – 18th April (Good Friday) (Boys and Lay Clerks)
- Tickets: None required.
- Rachmaninov All Night Vigil – 27th June (Girls and Lay Clerks)
- Confessions of a Composer with Sir John Rutter – 28th September at 7.00pm John Rutter
- Evensong directed by Sir John Rutter– 28th September at 3.30pm, sung by the Abbey choirs of Boys, Girls and Lay Clerks
- Festival Evensong in October – date to be confirmed, to celebrate and re-dedicate the choir.
- Remembrance Concert – 8th November
- A Christmas Celebration – 13th December (All Abbey Choirs, including Melody Makers)
- Messiah – 20th December (Girls and Lay Clerks)
Throughout its history, Bath Abbey Boys’ Choir has not only been a beacon of musical tradition but has also fostered a unique sense of community, drawing choristers from across the city and beyond. With no choir school and limited scholarships, the dedication and passion of these young singers is truly remarkable, making their achievements all the more inspiring.
Do you know a talented boy aged 7-9 who might enjoy being a chorister? Choristers gain confidence, learn musical and non-musical skills and make friends for life. The choir tours regularly (visiting Paris in May 2024 for instance) and we are looking for boys who enjoy singing, would enjoy the challenge of working hard and who would thrive in a strong community. Please contact Director of Music Huw Williams: hwilliams@bathabbey.org
As boys’ choirs face increasing challenges in today’s cultural landscape, Bath Abbey remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving and championing this invaluable tradition. Through extensive outreach efforts, the Abbey continues to encourage and inspire the next generation of singers, ensuring that boys’ choral music remains a vibrant part of the country’s musical heritage for years to come.
Join us in celebrating 150 years of Bath Abbey Boys’ Choir and Lay Clerks by attending one of our special performances in 2025. Experience the soaring voices, rich harmonies, and time-honoured tradition of this extraordinary choir.
For more information on concerts, events, and how to support Bath Abbey Boys’ Choir, visit https://www.bathabbey.org/
