St. Paul’s, Burlingame, announces the establishment of The St. Paul’s Choir School for boys and girls. Offering first-rate vocal training for boys and girls in a nurturing Christian environment, the school is grounded in the strong foundation of the ongoing chorister program at St. Paul’s. Rooted in the excellence of the Anglican musical tradition, the St. Paul’s Choir School is dedicated to giving children the training and opportunities that allow them to participate fully in the ministry of music at St. Paul’s. Since November 2005, the St. Paul’s Chorister program for boys and girls has been affiliated with the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM).

Founded in England in 1927, the RSCM remains dedicated to the highest standards of music in the church and has grown to become an international and ecumenical organization with more than 11,000 affiliates throughout the world. The RSCM VOICE for LIFE Chorister Training Program forms the core of the St. Paul’s Choir School experience.  Structured in four levels (light blue, dark blue, red, and yellow), each level represents successive, individual achievements in vocal skills, musical understanding (theory and sight-singing), knowledge of repertoire, commitment to the choir, and special projects that help place the ministry of the choir in the broader context of our worship life.  Workbooks and cards with specific targets allow choristers to work through the four levels at an individual pace.

Investing in the future of church music today, participation in the St. Paul’s Choir School develops each child’s musicianship, and also nurtures invaluable life skills of teamwork, leadership, discipline, and self-confidence. The rehearsal schedule features small group instruction that is at once challenging and fun. It also includes weekly rehearsal time with the St. Paul’s Chancel Choir, allowing children and parents to join in singing together the great sacred music of the ages.  

Regular singing opportunities include a monthly 10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist and the Third Saturday Evensong Series. Spring and fall workshops include the opportunity to work with special guest conductors. Summers include a Choristers Retreat and, for those ten years and older, opportunities to attend one of the national RSCM summer training courses with other RSCM Choristers from around the country.

Membership at St. Paul’s is not required to sing in the choirs at St. Paul’s.

For further information about enrolling in The St. Paul’s Choir School, please contact Director of Music, Dr. Susan Jane Matthews, at 650-348-4811x16 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Additional information on the St. Paul’s Choir School may also be found at the St. Paul’s parish website:  www.stpaulsburlingame.org