York Chorister Takes to Opera

Sam, a chorister at York Minster and pupil at St Peter’s School, York, took to the stage with the English Touring Opera earlier this month. He played Orgando in the English Touring Opera’s production of Handel’s Amadigi at Hexham Abbey. The performance was part of the English Touring Opera’s Autumn tour, which is visiting towns and cities up and down the UK.

Sam responded to the English Touring Opera’s casting call in the summer and was accepted for the role following a virtual audition. He submitted a video of himself singing at a Virtualosity concert, a weekly concert series which is organised for pupils at St Peter’s 8-13 and recorded for parents to enjoy virtually at home.

Sam says: “Performing with the English Touring Opera was a very special experience. The singers were amazing and the orchestra was great! Being in an opera is not something you do every day and I would love to perform in another opera in future.

Andy Falconer, Head of St Peter’s 8-13, adds: “This was such an incredible opportunity for Sam and allowed him the chance to sing in a different context from that which he does with the York Minster Choir. Who knows where this experience will lead Sam in the future!”

Sam is one of 40 boy and girl choristers who sing regular services at York Minster and are all educated at St Peter’s School, York. If you would like to find out more about becoming a chorister, please visit https://www.stpetersyork.org.uk/york-minster-choristers or email Sara Bath, PA to the Head of St Peter’s 8-13, s.bath@stpetersyork.org.uk