Music

As well as being a place of worship St Ninian’s also endeavours to provide a rich musical experience for the community. Under the direction of the Organist and Master of the Choristers the Cathedral Choir and Choral Scholars sing a wide repertoire of sacred choral works for the weekly services. The Cathedral’s fine Organ, favourable acoustics, space and ambience also attract other choral and orchestral groups, both amateur and professional. St Ninian’s is keen to develop further its musical provision for the community and welcomes performing musicians from many backgrounds. For further information please contact the Cathedral office.

Cathedral Choir

The Cathedral Choir of St Ninian’s performs a wide range of traditional and contemporary Anglican liturgical repertoire. They lead the worship at the weekly Sunday Eucharist and several extraordinary Services.

Rehearsals are: Thursdays 7.00–8.30pm and Sundays at 10am and as required in preparation for special services and festivals.

Choral Scholars

An innovative partnership with Strathallan School saw the introduction of Choral Scholars to the Cathedral Choir in 2005. These scholarships, available to boys and girls aged 14 to 18, provide a unique opportunity to be trained in Anglican choral singing whilst also receiving a first-class education as music scholars at Strathallan School. Scholars rehearse for approximately 2-3 hours per week and participate in weekly Cathedral services during term time, plus some seasonal services at Christmas and Easter. They are expected to play a full role in the life of the School, and many are able to combine this musical role with other major commitments, for example sports or arts. Many hope to further their choral training with Anglican Cathedral and Collegiate Choirs after they complete their school studies.

Vacancies

At present there are Choral Scholar vacancies for Sopranos, Altos, Tenors and Basses. For further information please contact Richard Walmsley, Strathallan School, Forgandenny, Perth, PH2 9EG. Tel: 01738 812546 or email: staffrcaw@strathallan.co.uk

The Organ

The first organ was installed when the church was built in 1850, and, according to the first Precentor in 1901, was built by Robson of London. In the 1880's, when the centre nave and the North Aisle were completed, the organ was rebuilt by P. Connacher and Eustance Ingram and enlarged to a four manual. In 1904-5, John R. Miller, a Dundee Organ builder completed further work. The organ, now situated in the south choir aisle, was completely rebuilt and restored by A.F.Edmonstone, Forteviot, in 1996. The detached console, in the north choir aisle, has four manuals and 67 draw stops.

A complete history of the Perth Cathedral Organ, written by Alistair Pow (Organist 1980-1990), can be obtained from the Cathedral for £2.00 plus postage and packing. Please visit the cathedral or email the Treasurer for further information. Proceeds from the sale of the booklet will be donated towards the Organ Fund.

Organists

St Ninian’s Cathedral has had many fine musicians and organists since its consecration in 1850. These include the following:

The Cathedral also has several assisting organists who help with weddings and other events. Their contact details are shown below:

Ron Cochrane

Neil Metcalfe staffnrm@strathallan.co.uk