Choir as a Gateway to Life-Long Musical Passion

As the director of Lichfield Young Voices Choir, one of the greatest joys of my role is watching children fall in love with music. While some may join a choir simply out of curiosity or because a parent encouraged them, many discover something far deeper - a passion that stays with them for life. Choir is often the first step on a musical journey that can lead to a lifetime of creativity, confidence, and connection. 

Early Exposure Builds Musical Foundations 

Children’s choirs provide an ideal environment for early musical development. Through regular rehearsals, children learn to read music, understand rhythm, develop pitch accuracy, and sing in harmony. These foundational skills are not only essential for singing but also transferable to learning instruments, composing, and appreciating music more broadly. Unlike solo singing, choir offers a communal experience. In Young Voices, children learn to listen to others, blend their voices, and work as a team. This collaborative spirit fosters a deeper appreciation for music as a shared art form, rather than just a personal talent. 

Igniting Passion Through Performance 

One of the most powerful aspects of choir is performance. Standing on stage, singing with others, and feeling the energy of an audience is exhilarating. For many children, this is the moment when music becomes more than a hobby - it becomes a passion. I’ve seen children who were hesitant at first become completely captivated after their first concert. The thrill of applause, the pride of accomplishment, and the joy of making music together often spark a desire to keep going. These experiences build confidence and create lasting memories that fuel a life-long love of music. 

Pathways to Further Musical Exploration 

Choir often opens doors to other musical opportunities. Children who start in choir may go on to learn instruments, join school bands or orchestras, study music in higher education, or even pursue careers in the arts. The discipline, ear training, and musical literacy gained in choir provide a strong foundation for any musical path. 

The other pathways available specifically to Lichfield Young Voices’ members include potential Choristerships with the Lichfield Cathedral Choir, where children benefit from professional vocal training and an outstanding all-round education at Lichfield Cathedral School. There are Choral Scholarships and Bursaries available for children whose parents would find it difficult to pay the fees for an independent school. The Cathedral School also offers instrumental and conducting pathways of progression, alongside the chance to study Music and Music Technology at GCSE and A Level. 

Alternatively, at age 12 children can progress to Lichfield Youth Voices to continue their vocal training and the joy of performing with a choir. Many former choir members continue singing as adults in community choirs, church groups, or informal ensembles. Music becomes a lifelong companion - a source of joy, comfort, and connection.

More Than Music: A Life-long Community 

Beyond the music itself, choir creates a sense of belonging. Children form friendships, learn to support one another, and experience the joy of collective achievement. These social bonds often endure, and the values learned - teamwork, empathy, perseverance - stay with them. In my years of directing choirs, I’ve received countless messages from former members who’ve gone on to study music, teach, perform, or simply sing for pleasure. They often credit their early choir experiences as the spark that lit the flame. 

A Lasting Legacy 

When you enrol your child in Lichfield Young Voices, you’re giving them more than a musical education. You’re giving them a gateway to a life-long passion, one that enriches their mind, heart, and spirit. Whether they become professional musicians or simply carry music with them through life, the journey often begins with a single song, sung in harmony with others. 

Lichfield Young Voices Choir meets on Mondays from 4.30pm to 5.30pm during term-time in Minster Hall, Lichfield. For more information, complete the form below.

Cathy Lamb 
Director of MusicShare and Lichfield Young Voices Choir Leader