History of The Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys

Note: The Choir is now welcoming women and girls. This page has been updated to reflect recent changes: https://www.cathedralofallsaints.org/cathedral-choir

Established in 1872, The Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys is the oldest continuously performing choir of its kind in the country. As the principal choir of The Cathedral of All Saints, the Choir of Men and Boys sings choral services in the Cathedral during the academic term. The choir enjoys an international reputation for musical excellence and acts as a vital link to the ancient choral traditions of England and Europe; all the while remaining distinctly American. In addition to its liturgical role, the choir is heard regularly in concert and has performed with The Albany Symphony, The Boston Symphony, and at The Tanglewood Music Festival. In recent years, the Choir has made two tours of England.

The choir is made up of trebles (boys ages 7-14 with unchanged voices) who sing the soprano line, while a dedicated group of professional men sing the alto, tenor and bass parts. Boys rehearse twice weekly during the academic term, and the gentlemen join them once each week for musical preparation. Choir members come from all parts of the Capital region, and represent a wide variety of backgrounds, faiths, and cultures. The quality of their music making, coupled with their uncommon dedication to excellence has helped make The Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys “Albany’s Boy Choir” for more than 150 years. 

The choristers are trained according to the standards set forth by The Royal School of Church Music. As they move through the training scheme, they earn ribbons of various colors that represent their rank in the ensemble. No previous musical training is necessary or expected. Please email the interim choirmaster,  Thomas Odell, with interest.