In a landmark moment for its 900-year history, St. Paul’s Cathedral has officially welcomed female choristers into its prestigious choir, marking a significant step toward gender inclusivity.
The Right Reverend Dame Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London, celebrated the milestone, stating:
“It is a great joy to welcome Lila and Lois into the cathedral community. I hope that they can inspire other young girls to pursue their aspirations, demonstrating what can be achieved in this historic institution.”
Breaking Barriers in a Historic Tradition
The decision to admit girls into the choir was announced in May 2022, following the example of other prominent cathedrals such as Salisbury, York Minster, Durham, and Exeter. St. Paul’s Cathedral, in partnership with St. Paul’s Cathedral School, outlined plans to ensure a “truly equal offer for girl and boy choristers.”
This change signifies a transformative shift in the choir’s composition, allowing girls to become permanent members. Female choristers will now participate equally in services and national events, showcasing their talents alongside their male counterparts.
Pioneering Inclusion: The First Female Chorister
St. Paul’s journey toward inclusivity began in 2017 when Carris Jones, a Cambridge history graduate and alto singer, became the first woman to join the choir full-time. Jones, then 35, brought extensive experience as a freelance singer, having performed on the soundtracks of Harry Potter and The Hobbit and toured with Sting on his 2006 “lute tour.”
Reflecting on her appointment, Jones remarked:
“It wasn’t just for me; it was for my female colleagues as well. I feel fortunate to join a choir so committed to involving women. These opportunities are rare, and I am privileged to have been in the right place at the right time.”
Paving the Way for Equality
With the inclusion of female choristers, St. Paul’s Cathedral aims to inspire a new generation of musicians while embracing equality in its revered musical tradition.
The initiative not only honors the cathedral’s rich heritage but also ensures its practices reflect the evolving values of contemporary society. By creating equal opportunities for young singers, St. Paul’s continues to set a progressive example in the world of sacred music.
As Lila and Lois take their place in the choir, their voices symbolize a harmonious blend of tradition and progress, heralding a new chapter in the cathedral’s storied legacy.
