The Cathedral Choir has long been a center of musical and cultural significance within the city of Albany. Through the academic year we sing for weekly services and special musical events, offering music in the style and context for which it was intended. The education of young singers is essential to the choir. Our tradition is to have children sing the treble (or soprano) part and professionals sing the other parts. This combination of young and trained voices creates a sound that is rarely heard elsewhere.

The musical training is comprehensive and methodical, equipping our choristers with the skills and mindset to sing for the many liturgies throughout the year. Choristers who have graduated from our novice class are paid for their services. Their training bears fruit in many other aspects of their lives as well. They are leaders among their peers both in childhood and adulthood as they learn the meaning of hard work and dedication.

During rehearsals a snack is provided, along with a chance for the children to make lasting friendships. Throughout the term there are opportunities for other choir activities such as meals together, garden parties, and trips. Rehearsals are always supervised by at least two responsible adults.

Consider entering your child into our novice class over the summer. We will meet weekly on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 to 7:00. No prior musical training is required and tuition is free. A high quality musical education is one of the most valuable gifts that can be given to someone early in their life, allow them the opportunity at The Cathedral of All Saints.

History of The Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys

Established in 1872, The Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys was the longest continuously performing choir of its kind in the country. As the principal choir of The Cathedral of All Saints, the Choir of Men and Boys sang choral services in the Cathedral during the academic term.

The choir enjoys an international reputation for musical excellence and acts as a vital link to the ancient choral traditions of England and Europe; all the while remaining distinctly American. In addition to its liturgical role, the choir is heard regularly in concert and has performed with The Albany Symphony, The Boston Symphony, and at The Tanglewood Music Festival. In recent years, the Choir has made two tours of England.

The choir contains trebles (boys ages 7-14 with unchanged voices) who sing the soprano line, while a dedicated group of professional adults sing the alto, tenor and bass parts. Choristers rehearse twice weekly during the academic term, and the adults join them once each week for musical preparation. Choir members come from all parts of the Capital region, and represent a wide variety of backgrounds, faiths, and cultures. The quality of their music making, coupled with their uncommon dedication to excellence helped make The Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys “Albany’s Boy Choir” for more than 150 years.