Visiting choirs are welcomed to Gloucester Cathedral to perform when the resident choirs are on leave or on tour. This provides a sought after opportunity for choirs from around the world to sing in this most magnificent building and gives the local congregations and visitors a chance to hear a different approaches of singing.
For those choirs wanting further information then contact Helen Sims the Music Department Manager 01452 508212 or email: helen.sims@gloucestercathedral.org.uk
As a city Gloucester offers a wealth of Ecclesiastical history. The saying ‘as sure as God ‘s in Gloucester’ referred to the number of monastic buildings founded in the city. Some remains of Greyfriars and St Oswald’s and LLanthony Priories still stand. Blackfriars is the most complete surviving Dominican Priory in the country with an outstanding Scriptorium. The Cathedral the resting place of King Edward II, Robert Duke of Normandy and Abbot Serlo; the birthplace of Perpendicular, and Fan vaulting. An eclectic mix of architectural styles is on show from Crypt to Tower.
St Mary de Lode stands and what has been suggested was the first Christian church in the country. It has a section Roman mosaic floor on display. St Mary de Crypt was home to Robert Raikes co- founder of the Sunday School movement; to George Whitefield co-founder of Methodism; and to John Biddle father of Unitarianism. John Wesley preached here with Whitefield who was born close to this church. Just on the outskirts of Gloucester at Highnam sits a church described by Sir John Betjeman as; ‘the most complete Victorian church in the country’ it was designed by TG Parry with input from Pugin in Gothic style using a new ‘spirit fresco’ method.
The Edward Hotel often hosts visiting choirs from around the world. It is a short walk from the Cathedral of ten minutes or so, so is an ideal location for those wanting to be close to the city yet far enough away from city life to get a peaceful night.
There are twenty five rooms available of which six are ground floor rooms.
There is a piano at reception where some choirs have rehearsed.
The hosts can arrange guided tours of the city, including bespoke tours such as Ecclesiastical history, Canal and the Docks, the Civil War or Royal history. The hosts can also arrange for group meals in recommended local restaurants.
To arrange accommodation your best contact is StJohn (sinjun). reception@ehglos.co.uk