Saint Mark's Cathedral Choir School
Inviting young people to life-long growth as musicians,
as liturgical leaders, and as beloved children of God.
Why do we sing?
We make known the love of God and the beauty of God’s creation through song, learned from many cultures and many faith traditions.
Saint Mark’s Choir School singers are ministers of music. We aspire to teach, to learn, to inspire and to lead the varied communities of Saint Mark’s Cathedral, the Diocese of Olympia, and the city of Seattle through our work as liturgical ministers. All children are welcome in Saint Mark's Choir School.
What curriculum do we use?
Saint Mark’s is a member of the Royal School of Church Music in America (RSCM). The curriculum, based on RSCM’s Voice for Life, emphasizes well-rounded musicianship as well as life long growth in music and faith; vocal and ear training as well as theoretical knowledge; and ministry through liturgical leadership and community service.
How does my child join?
Enrollment: Enroll your child using the online Choir School Registration Form. Enrollment is welcomed in September and January -- occasionally mid-year start dates will be determined by the Choir School staff. Please email us with questions: choirschool@saintmarks.org.
Rehearsal: All choirs of the Choir School now rehearse on Wednesday. Note that Choir School families are encouraged to attend the community dinner at 6 p.m. in Bloedel hall ($6/child; $8/adult; $25/max. family)
Calendars: View the Google Calendar here. View and download pdfs of the schedules here:
Tuition: Tuition will be $150/semester for each chorister and can be paid through the cathedral website here. Scroll down to "Choir School Tuition" line. If tuition is a hardship for your family at this time, we can offer partial or full scholarships due to the generosity of some of our other families. Don't hesitate to ask. We want your children to sing!
Who are Saint Mark's Choristers?
Junior Choristers
Boys and girls, 5 years and older, beginner level
Rehearsals: Wednesdays 3:30–4:15 p.m.
Our youngest choir, where singers learn basic musicianship skills in a fun and engaging atmosphere. Their music is drawn from a variety of cultures and sung in a variety of languages. They sing primarily at the 9 a.m. Sunday morning service, usually on the first Sunday of the month. Other dates include:
- Blessing of the Animals Service: Saturday, October 1 (3:45 p.m. call)
- Pageant of the Nativity: Tuesday, December 20
Senior Choristers
Boys and girls, intermediate level, determined by director
Rehearsals: Wednesdays 4:30–6 p.m.
Members receive small group instruction in musicianship, vocal technique, and liturgical ministry. This choir sings at the 9 a.m. Sunday morning services about twice a month, usually the first and third Sunday of the month. Other dates include:
- "O" Antiphons Liturgy: Sunday, November 27
- Pageant of the Nativity: Tuesday, December 20
Cathedral Schola
High school aged youth and changed-voice boys
Rehearsals: Wednesdays 7:20–8:45 p.m. (note new time)
Members are expected to lead the Choir School in behavior and bearing, and receive advanced small group instruction in musicianship, vocal technique and liturgical ministry. This choir sings at the 9 a.m. Sunday Eucharist twice each month, usually the second and fourth Sundays of the month. Special events include: Children’s Choir Festival, tours to local Parishes, Pentecost Run/Ride/Roll, and more.
Evensong Choristers
Selected Senior Choristers and Schola members, by invitation
Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Our most advanced Senior Choristers and Schola members will be evaluated and invited to join this group to sing Evensong Services along with auditioned adult choir members. Membership in the Senior Chorister choir or the Schola is required to be considered for the Evensong Choir. Learn more about the Evensong Choir here.