The Cornwall Junior Choir was established in January 2001 as part of an initiative to promote singing in primary schools in Cornwall. The National Foundation for Youth Music awarded the choir a grant under their Singing Challenge programme. The partnership between Truro Cathedral and Cornwall Council Music Service Department founded the choir, which comprises young singers from all over Cornwall.

The choir has performed in various venues, including traditional places like Truro Cathedral and unconventional locations such as Tate St Ives, Gwennap Pit, and The National Maritime Museum. They have also performed in other cathedrals in Gloucester, Exeter, and Scilly. Along with their regular commitments, the choir has shared what they have learned with their audiences and improved their skills and confidence. They have had the opportunity to perform with Aled Jones and participate in a "Children in Need" concert.

In September 2015, the choir's support structure changed slightly but maintained close ties with the Cathedral. The Cornwall Music Service Trust now oversees the choir, providing them with a secure future. The choir is excited about the possibilities for their future under this new arrangement.

Jo Saville - Musical Director

After a musical youth of Cornish brass bands and swing bands (flugel horn/trumpet/saxophone), along with singing in choirs, gigging with a soul band and gaining grade 8 piano, Jo graduated from Exeter University with a BA in music, where she performed for the Queen as part of the University Saxophone Quartet and was the Musical Director of the Jazz Orchestra. Jo also developed her love of singing further here, by performing in a gospel choir, jazz quintet and stage productions.

Following her PCGE from The Institute of Education (University of London), Jo taught music in many schools, in both classroom & peripatetic capacity,  and greatly enjoyed the varied experiences that this created. Years later, Jo has been at the helm of Rock Choir in Cornwall, creating a safe & fun space where members get to sing out some feel-good favourites each week and escape the stresses of daily life, whilst building friendships and experiencing some amazing performance opportunities along the way.  

Jo strongly believes that music is a powerful, positive force and loves that singing is accessible to everyone. She is really excited about working with the Cornwall Junior Choir for the foreseeable future. 

rehearsals

As previously, rehearsals run from 10-11.30 am (unless otherwise indicated by email or text)

Drop off and pick up are outside the Old Cathedral School, across the grass at the side of Truro Cathedral. (if you are not sure where that is, please ask).

We all must meet in one place! You will be notified of any changes. Please remember that no parking facilities are available at the Cathedral for Junior Choir parents.

As always, please encourage anyone who might like to be part of the choir to come along to a rehearsal to see what it is like; the first two Saturdays of the term will be held as ‘open rehearsals’, so the more, the merrier.

Subs per child per term are £40 and £70 for two siblings in the choir, and this is handled through the Cornwall Music Service Trust Website. 

Choir uniform - All Black unless otherwise stated (including black socks/tights and shoes)

CJC Rehearsal and concert calendar

COME ALONG

You're welcome to come along any Saturday in term-time from 10.00 - 11.30 at Truro Cathedral. We’ll meet at the entrance to The Old Cathedral School,  across the grass at the side of the Cathedral.

Choir secretary Julia Carter and musical director Jo Saville will be there to welcome you and answer any questions about the choir's organisation and activities.

The small mixed choir always welcomes new members. Anyone aged from 6 to 13 years can join. Young singers come from all over Cornwall weekly for expert tuition under the musical director.

 If you have any concerns or questions, please get in touch with Julia Carter (details below).