The choir leads worship at Holy Trinity Church, Kandy[3] on Sundays and two days of the week during the academic terms of the college. In addition, the choir is actively involved in the music life of the school.[4]
History
The choir was established at the same time as the school in 1872, with Clement Edwards[1][2] as its founding choirmaster.[1] From the mid 1940s[1][5] a rapid development of the choir is recorded with performance of operettas,[1] and publication of a book with traditional songs and hymns. In 1946 commenced an annual performance of A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.[6]Audio tapes of the choir were broadcast over the local radio and the BBC World Service.[1][7]
The choristers consist of boys from the ages of 9 to 19 years. They are chosen generally at the younger ages as young sopranos and continue to remain as choristers until they graduate from school. They are not essentially students of music or singing, but auditioned based on their keenness to sing.
Events
There are two regular traditional events in the year for the choir, 'A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols'[11] held in Advent, which has been held close to 50 years at the Chapel. 'The Cross & Triumph of Christ', similar to the traditional 'Cross of Christ'[12] at Lent, is held on Palm Sunday. In addition to these events, a public concert with secular music is staged by the choir mid-year.[10]
The choir also has performance engagements throughout the year, including collaborated events[13] with other choirs[10] and music festivals.[14][15] These include choirs from other schools[16][17] both local and international, including performances with the Assens Boys Choir[18] and the Choir of Jesus College, Cambridge.[19][20] The choir also produced a recording of Christmas Carols in 2008.[21][22]