The Academical Clerks

There are vacancies for Academical Clerks in 2007/2008. Further information may be found on the following website. At the choral trial, candidates are required to sing a prepared piece and to demonstrate musical aptitude through a few vocal exercises (scales and arpeggios), ear tests and reading at sight. The audition lasts approximately 10 minutes. Great care is taken to ensure that the duties of the Cathedral Choir do not interfere with academic work and progress.

Christ Church is unique amongst the collegiate choirs in its Cathedral role, and this is reflected in the considerable opportunities afforded to the young singer, to learn a vast musical repertoire and to participate in many recordings, broadcasts and tours. In the past few years, the choir has visited, Australia, Brazil, Finland, France, Germany, Portugal, Switzerland, Japan, the Lebanon and the U.S.A. Academical Clerks are expected to have singing lessons, the cost of which is borne by the College.

Academical Clerks have moved on from Christ Church into all areas of life. Some remain in singing whilst others follow careers governed by their degree choice.

Life as an Academical Clerk:

Gabriel Vick (Tenor, 2001 - 2004)

"I came to Christ church in 2001 fresh from a laid back New Zealand tour with some of the men from the choir. So when I began proper in my busy first term, I was rather shocked as to what was expected of me. It took me some time to learn how to manage my time between work, the choir and play. At one point in this first term, having lost my voice and confidence, I can remember Stephen personally coming to my room to reassure me that this was perfectly normal and that I should not panic. This was sound advice, as through my three years I grew in confidence in the choir and my degree. Oxford became such a wonderful place to be. I found much more time to branch out and know the University, particularly through my involvement in the drama scene – of which Stephen was extremely supportive (and perhaps slightly proud!). It was through my interest in musicals in particular that my singing teacher Ashley Stafford recommended a course at the Royal Academy of Music. Having completed the course there you can now find me in the West End. My experience in the Cathedral Choir has paid dividends many times over."