Our Academy of Vocal Music choirs provide exciting opportunities for young singers aged 2-18.
Everyone is welcome! Our approach enables us to get to know each singer as an individual.
We provide a wide range of teaching, learning opportunities and performances opportunities, including singing alongside Ex Cathedra in Symphony Hall, in Birmingham Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the Hippodrome, plus supporting local charities and making music videos.
We have a number of choirs. Please get in touch if you would like more information:
- Noah Bears: our group for younger children meeting on 10 Saturday mornings each year
- Junior Academy 1 & 2: School Years 3–5 and 6-8
- Senior Academy: School Years 9 – 13 (upper and lower voices)
The Junior and Senior Academy groups meet at the Birmingham & Midland Institute (Margaret Street, near the Council House) on 30 Wednesday evenings each year. This venue is well served by public transport.
The team leading the choirs:
- Rebecca Ledgard (Director of Education & Participation)
- Sam Hayes (Senior Academy conductor)
- Colin Lapus (Assistant)
- Sally Spencer (Noah Bears leader, also Singing Medicine Nursing Advisor & Pastoral Support)
- Rob Challinor (principal accompanist)
- Sarah Povall chaperone and pastoral support
Find our designated Facebook and Twitter accounts.
How to join
We are always pleased to welcome new members. For more information, please contact Julie Watson, Academy of Vocal Music Coordinator: julie.watson@excathedra.co.uk
What they say
“….The most amazing choir, a group of incredible and influential Vocal Tutors and musicians and lifelong friends that I have made through singing with Junior Academy and the Girls Academy. The support and experience that Ex Cathedra has given to me has been amazing and I feel so very privileged and honoured … over the years I have not only developed my musical and singing knowledge but have also been equipped with invaluable communication, self-management and social skills. I have so many wonderful memories from amazing rehearsals, Rob’s funky piano riffs, my first time in the orchestra pit at age 6, singing at ArtsFest, singing in Carmina all those years back in Symphony Hall and attending annual Carols by Candlelight – a tradition that I know my family and friends will keep for a long time! So…! I just want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has made my Ex Cathedra experience such a valuable and treasured experience.” (Martha Davis, member for 10 years)
How you can help
If you would like to make a donation to support the Academy choirs, we would be extremely grateful.
We would like to thank all of our funders for their very kind support.
