On Wednesday 3 September, we welcomed both newly appointed and experienced Choral Directors to Leeds for a full day of training as part of the National Schools Singing Programme.

The day began with a welcome from Benjamin Saunders, Lead Consultant for the NSSP, before the group split for several tailored sessions. New colleagues explored the foundations of the NSSP curriculum and first steps in delivering musicianship sessions, while more experienced Choral Directors shared insights into sacred repertoire and developing choirs.

Workshops across the day covered everything from sacred music for schools and youth choirs, using the NSSP’s musicianship teaching resources and a talk on vocal health for practitioners led by Laura McFall. At the heart of the day was a shared celebration of music at Mass for the feast of St Gregory the Great, reminding us of the spiritual and liturgical mission that underpins the Programme.