Mrs Hill has been a wonderful teacher, and has taught me to present a song like a story
in the cathedral, and I still remember the thrill of singing this wonderful piece in such a prestigious building. I am looking forward to continuing with the Madrigal Choir, and can imagine myself, one day, singing the seemingly impossible low notes! I spoke to Mr Ludford-Thomas, Head of Vocal Studies at the College, about his singing journey. He told me how he ‘absolutely loved making singing sounds’ from a very young age, along with his brothers. He added: ‘Perhaps it was slightly unusual that I simply loved to sing, whereas I could get bored in other activities. Something about the act of singing – the physical sensation and the sound you create – was and still is so magical. Becoming Choirboy of the Year in 1986 led to professional work for about a year and a half, so I was very motivated, as it was the special thing in my life.’ He likens good singing to ‘running free with the wind at your back and the sun in your face’. Sci- ence backs this up, showing that singing is great for your mental health, as it releases dopamine and endorphins – the chemicals that make you feel happy. I was offered a place in the school’s Chapel Choir in 2021. This was also a little daunting at first, but the friendly na- ture of the group meant I felt encouraged from the start. Since then, I have learnt a great many hymns, psalms, carols and other songs over the years, including about 10 different versions of the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis! One of my favourite pieces with the Chapel Choir is ‘Seek Him that Maketh the Seven Stars’ by Jonathan Dove, as it has such a joyful melody. At Southwark Cathedral in March this year we sang the world premiere of The White Road by Cecilia McDowall, the College’s composer-in-resi- dence. I loved learning this new piece, and performing it to so many people at the cathedral made it feel doubly special. The tenor soloist for this piece, William Barter-Sheppard (Year 13), the current Head of Chapel Choir, told me: ‘I believe strongly that learning the skills associated with collective singing are invaluable. Being able to share the joy of making music with others while performing is something magical!’ He added that he certainly will continue to sing at university, and while he doesn’t wish to pursue it as a career, he intends to keep singing in his life.
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