New Hall School in Chelmsford brought together current students, alumni and staff for a choir tour of London, singing at Mass in three of the capital’s most prominent and distinctive Catholic churches.  Taking place from Friday 28 August to Monday 31 August 2026, the weekend included performances at St Patrick’s, Soho, Notre Dame de France and the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Farm Street.  The tour extended the reach of the School’s thriving choral programme, giving students the opportunity to contribute to the musical and liturgical life of the capital. 

The weekend was supported by a generous grant from the Choir Schools’ Association, of which the School is a member.  New Hall recently became the first Catholic school to be accredited by the Royal College of Organists, with the Music Department specialising in providing opportunities for young musicians to develop as singers, organists, and conductors.  The tour put this commitment into practice, with students taking leading roles alongside members of the Music Department. 

Each Mass was planned and directed principally by students, reflecting New Hall’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians and creating leadership pathways for under-represented groups.  Students from Year 8 to Year 13 had the opportunity to rehearse the choir and conduct it during Mass, while three students played solo organ pieces and Isabella P (Year 13) accompanied the choir across the weekend. 

The Choir was also joined by alumni, known as Old Fishes, including Howard L, who is Organist and Director of Music at St Charles Borromeo Church, Fitzrovia.  His involvement highlighted the lasting connections formed through music at New Hall and the contribution its former students continue to make to Catholic Church music. 

Mr Jonathan Turner, Director of Music, said: “It was a joy to bring together our students, Old Fishes and staff to perform in these prestigious London churches.  We were particularly proud to see our young conductors and organists take leading roles.  By giving students from a wide range of backgrounds the training, encouragement and experience to lead, we can help broaden representation in Catholic Church music and inspire the next generation of musical leaders, regardless of background.” 

Based at St Mary’s University, Twickenham, the Choir rehearsed in the University Chapel before travelling to churches across London.  Alongside the performances, the weekend offered opportunities to explore the city and strengthen friendships between current students, alumni and staff, further reinforcing the strong sense of community that characterises New Hall’s musical life.