Magdalene College Choir

Magdalene College Choir is an integral part of the College’s musical and spiritual life, singing twice weekly in the atmospheric, candlelit Chapel. Beyond these services, the Choir takes part in concerts, recordings, and tours.

Directed by the Precentor, Mr James Potter, with support from the Organ Scholars, the Choir is a close-knit and welcoming group of around 20–24 members, including both Magdalene students and volunteers from other Colleges.

The Choir sings Choral Evensong on Thursdays and Sundays during term and also performs at College events, visiting services, and external concerts. In recent years, they have toured internationally, with performances in Spain, the USA, Germany, France, Italy, and Malta.

Further information is available in the Choral and Organ Scholarship Brochure.

Joining the Choir

Choir members receive dinner in Hall twice a week in recognition of their contribution to College life, along with subsidised singing lessons, tours, and other activities. There are two ways to join: University Choral Awards are available to offer-holders before they arrive in Cambridge, while Choral Volunteers can be appointed throughout the year and may be Members of other Colleges, enjoying many of the same benefits as Choral Scholars. If you're interested, contact the Director of Music to arrange an audition or discuss your options.

Organ Scholars

Organ Scholars receive subsidised lessons and some of the best accommodation in College. Working alongside the Precentor, they help run the College Choir and have opportunities to direct it. The Chapel houses a Goetze and Gwynn organ, installed in 2000, which is widely regarded as one of the finest neo-baroque organs in Cambridge.

Many former Organ Scholars have gone on to careers as professional musicians. Prospective applicants are welcome to contact the Director of Music for advice and guidance on the application process or life as an Organ Scholar at Magdalene.

Choir Recordings

The Choir's most recent recording, Wolcum Yole!, features Britten’s Ceremony of Carols alongside a selection of festive music. The album also includes poetry readings by the former Magdalene Master, Dr Rowan Williams, chosen to complement the music.

Previous recordings include:

• Garde ta Foy – Music by Grieg, Rachmaninov, Britten, Purcell, and Tallis.
• How Shall I Sing That Majesty – Music by Parry, Tippett, Ireland, Howells, Weelkes, and Blow.