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The Diocese of Arundel & Brighton is delighted to announce that it is joining the Schools Singing Programme. Music has a central role within the Diocese with a number of children and young people actively involved in school and church choirs. The programme will further enrich music provision across participating diocesan schools offering world-class, inclusive music programmes which will transform students’ musical education. Speaking about the benefits of the programme Bishop Richard said:

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“I am delighted that our Diocese is joining the Schools Singing Programme. The scheme will provide opportunities for evangelisation, together with formation of young people in liturgical music, assisting their journey to becoming disciples in the fullest sense.”

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The Diocese has appointed two talented Choral Directors, Faye Eldret and Fraser Ellson, to deliver the scheme to pupils across Sussex and Surrey. Speaking about the launch of the programme Faye said:

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“I am delighted to be appointed as Choral Director for the Catholic Diocese of Arundel and Brighton.  As a professional singer I started my musical journey singing in a junior choir and playing in our church band.  I was so lucky to be afforded these opportunities and singing and playing in church gave me purpose and strengthened faith and sense of belonging. I feel passionately about the importance of singing and music for young people and I am thrilled that our work will bring the choral tradition to a wider audience and introduce the joy of singing to children who may not have otherwise had this opportunity. I have always taught alongside my performing career, and leading choirs has been an integral part of that teaching practise, teaching children the vocal technique and musicality to sing together as one glorious voice is so rewarding and I still learn so much every day from working with children in music.”

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Fraser added:

“I am overjoyed to be starting in this role as a Choral Director.  I really feel that this Singing Programme will help build strong relationships within the various communities of Arundel & Brighton and will be a fantastic way for our schools here to experience the wonderful impact of music making in their establishments.”

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Highlighting the exciting opportunities offered by the initiative Julie Oldroyd, Deputy Director of the diocesan Education Service said:

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“We are delighted to be able to offer this wonderful opportunity to our young people. I am looking forward to working closely with the schools of our Diocese as the launch of the scheme approaches in September this year.”