Supporting Cathedral Music in Worcester Music is at the very heart of Worcester Cathedral.  For over 1300 years it has been an essential element in its every day life, not only enhancing the active worship in God but also transforming and bringing to life this magnificent and historic building. Underpinning the music is the organ and the choirs.  A recent appeal has raised monies to provide a new Quire organ. Now the Cathedral is concentrating on providing support for the choirs. Music Endowment  Choral music is one of the oldest traditions in the western world and Worcester Cathedral is striving to ensure that the tradition continues into the future, both here in this magnificent building and through its choirs as ambassadors across the world, through the establishment of a Music Endowment. "In such a beautiful architectural setting as Worcester, our musical tradition is a living entity which draws together the artistic merits of many centuries.  It is the living, breathing heart of our cultural heritage"  Adrian Lucas, Organist and Master of Choristers Music Medieval and Modern "It is the power of the musical art that may make those rejoicing to rejoice more and those grieving to grieve more." (Wulstan, 11th Century Cantor of Winchester Cathedral) Choirs of men, boys and, latterly, girls are one of the glories of the church bringing joy and peace and a sense of celebration to all who hear them. Choristers, Commitment and Cost Choristers and their families give an enormous commitment to the Cathedral, both in term time and beyond.  Indeed family life revolves round the choristers' timetable. Finding the fees to support the education of the boys at King's School, Worcester, where the boy choristers receive their education, can be a barrier for some families. Finance and the Future To meet this need the Music Endowment is looking for financial support, ultimately to raise a minimum of £3 million. The income from this will contribute to current costs of the choir, at present £240,000, a large proportion of which goes towards supporting the education of boy choristers at The King's School as well as providing a choral education for girls.  In doing so, it will help preserve the English choral tradition, under threat because of current economic conditions. How you can help There are many ways that you can support us.  You can make a single donation by cash, cheque or CAF voucher, or pledge a gift over a period of time, such as five years.  If you are a UK tax payer, you may also take advantage of the Gift Aid scheme whereby the Cathedral is able to reclaim the tax paid to the Government.  Currently this amounts to 28p for every £ donated.  You may also make a gift of shares or property or leave a legacy. You may also Endow a Day of Music.  (Click here to link to the Endow a Day of Music page) For further information on how you might support the Cathedral, please contact the Development Manager on 01905 732912 or e-mail lucindawray-wear@worcestercathedral.org.uk Alternatively, you can write to the Development Manager at The Chapter Office, 8 College Yard, Worcester WR1 2LA