Music at Selby Abbey has a long history going back to its monastic foundation in the 11th century when plainsong would have been chanted at daily services by the Benedictine monks.
Music is still a glorious and integral part of our worship here today, led by the singing of the Abbey Choir. Services are accompanied by the Abbey’s magnificent organ completed by William Hill & Sons in 1909. Fully restored in 2016, it is widely recognised as one of the finest “romantic” organs in the UK. Further information can be found here.
The Choir of Selby Abbey currently numbers 35 adults and children. While it consists principally of dedicated volunteers, we employ two professional musicians: the Director of Music and Assistant Organist; and three Choral Scholars. We are further supported by two Choir Chaperones who take a leading role in safeguarding and ensuring the well-being of our choristers.
During term-time the choir sings at the weekly Sung Eucharist on Sundays, and at Choral Evensong on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month, in addition to singing at other special services, weddings and concerts. We also run a Junior Choir for children on Saturday mornings, directed by Karen Banks.
Enquiries about music at the Abbey and joining the choirs are most welcome at any time. If you are:
- An adult or young person interested in singing inspiring music in a great building to a high standard, and becoming part of a supportive and friendly community, or…
- A parent of a musical child (aged 8 or older) who might be interested in becoming a Chorister in the Abbey Choir, or…
- A parent of a child aged 6-10 who you think might enjoy doing fun singing activities with other young children as a member of the Abbey Junior Choir.
Please contact Oliver Waterer, Director of Music, via Selby Abbey Office.