On Monday 9 March, St Albans Cathedral was delighted to host its very first iSingPOP event, welcoming almost 300 children from schools within the Diocese of St Albans Multi-Academy Trust. It was a day filled with music, movement, learning and celebration as the young performers came together for a truly memorable experience in the Cathedral’s historic setting. 

The children had been rehearsing with iSingPOP in their own schools for several weeks, learning songs and choreography centred around themes of peace, love, reconciliation and Christian values. Monday marked the exciting culmination of all their hard work, as they gathered in the Cathedral’s Nave for one joyful, united performance. 

Performing in front of an audience of more than 300 proud parents and grandparents, the children sang and danced with enthusiasm for an hour, filling the 900-year-old building with energy, joy and harmony. Their voices echoed through the Cathedral, creating a wonderful atmosphere that brought together families, schools and the wider community. 

The day began with a special organ recital and demonstration by Dewi Rees, the Cathedral’s Assistant Director of Music, offering many of the children their first close-up experience of the Cathedral’s magnificent instrument. It was a fitting way to set the tone for a day full of awe and wonder. 

Before the afternoon performance, the children also enjoyed guided tours around both the inside and outside of the Cathedral, discovering more about the story of St Alban and the rich history of the building. Following a final rehearsal, the stage was set for the much-anticipated performance. Organising teacher, Gilly Riach, said 'Our sincere thanks to all at St Albans Cathedral enabling the Diocese of St Albans Multi-Academy Trust (DSAMAT) to hold our very first concert, Voices of Hope and Voices of Thanks. An inspiring event of uplifting songs of hope, love and togetherness with 300 pupil represented from all 15 of our schools and enjoyed by over 300 family guests.' 

The Cathedral was thrilled to welcome iSingPOP and the talented young performers for this special event, and it was wonderful to see the Nave come alive with such joy and creativity.

To find out more about iSingPOP, visit: https://www.isingpop.org/