Community directory

Cantate

Cantate was formed by Michael Kibblewhite in 1994 as a mixed-voice youth choir, and now has a membership of more than 200 boys and girls, representing almost 75 schools, colleges and universities, mostly in Hertfordshire, Essex and Cambridgeshire.

Cantate has a Training Choir (8 years+), a high-voice Junior Choir (10-13 years) and a Senior Choir for 14-21 year olds.

Rehearsals take place at the St Mary's catholic school in Bishop's Stortford, mostly at weekends, and all students receive training in singing and performance skills, including vocal technique and voice care. Residential weekends are held twice a year and there are occasional daytime workshops.

Cantate operates an open-door policy, with no auditions on entry. Keen young singers aged between 10 and 21, who are willing to work hard and attend rehearsals regularly, are invited to consider joining. Male trebles, tenors and basses are especially welcomed.

Cantate performs regularly in Eastern England and Central London, takes part in major competitions and recording sessions, and undertakes regular overseas tours. The choir were winners of the 'Sainsbury's Children's Choir of the Year' title in 2000.

Registered charity number 1039369