First girl choristers join choir of St George’s Chapel

St George’s School Windsor Castle have announced that two of their female pupils have joined the choir of St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, marking the first time girl choristers have been admitted to the choir in its 674-year history.

This follows the decision, announced by the Dean of Canons of Windsor in January 2022, that girls and boys would sing alongside each other in St George’s Chapel Choir.

The two girls, both aged nine, will now live in the school’s boarding house during the week and participate fully in the choristers' programme of daily rehearsals and – in time – regular services, alongside their normal schooling and co-curricular activities.

Head William Goldsmith said: "We are tremendously proud of our long-standing tradition of educating and housing the choristers of St George’s Chapel.

"To be able to offer this opportunity to everybody at the school, regardless of gender, is very much aligned to our philosophy of valuing all students and recognising that each child has his or her own unique contribution to make to the life of our community and to global society as a whole."

Founded in 1348, the Choir of St George’s Chapel sings regularly in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen and other members of the Royal Family.

The choir is formed of up to 23 choristers, normally appointed following an audition process between the ages of 7 and 9.

Choristers typically remain in the choir until the end of Year 8, when they leave St George’s School Windsor Castle for senior school.

"While only accounting for a small number of the children here at St George’s, the choristers fulfil a vital role in the daily life of the school and the Chapel," added Mr Goldsmith.