WITH the school term underway and Christmas looming on the not-so-far horizon choristers at Salisbury Cathedral are gearing up for a busy season.

As well as welcoming new members many young choristers have been promoted to senior positions in preparation for the coming year.

Director of music at the cathedral David Halls said: “Starting the Christmas term with a new team is always exciting. There’s lots to work to be done to get the choir into shape for Christmas, one of busiest times, but it’s also a chance to try new things.

“We have two big concerts in November and December to work towards.”

Also joining the music department for the academic year is organ scholar Daniel Matheison.

Formerly an organ scholar at Worcester College in Oxford Dan studied at York Minster and has experience conducting concerts and training choristers.

Upcoming concerts include November’s Remembrancetide where the choir will sing the English Requiem along with Bach’s motet Jesu Meine Freude.

In December, Handel’s popular Messiah will return the cathedral where the full choir will perform alongside the City of London Sinfonia.

This season the music department will also be hoping to share their music with children from across the diocese.

On Saturday, November 12 at midday children in Years 2, 3 and 4 are invited to see what it’s like to be a chorister for a day of fun, singing and activities.

For more information on concert times, tickets or taking part in the ‘Be a chorister for a Day’ experience call 01722 555105 or visit the website www.salisburycathedral.org.uk.