Music has played an important role in the life of Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral since it was consecrated in 1967.
The unique musical tradition of the Metropolitan Cathedral is due almost entirely to the Duffy brothers, Philip (Master of the Music 1966-1996) and Terence (Organist 1963-1993, Director of Music 2004-2007).
Inheriting an entirely new cathedral building – shaped in the round, and unlike anything seen before – and navigating the changes of the Second Vatican Council, the Duffys built an enviable musical tradition.
This tradition was distinctly Roman Catholic yet English, drawing from the Church’s rich heritage of chant and polyphony while also embracing the expanding repertoire of the Anglican choral tradition.
The Metropolitan Cathedral Choir sings at Mass in the cathedral on a daily basis during choir term, enhancing the liturgy and giving glory to God through its musical offerings. In addition, the choir regularly gives concerts, broadcasts on the BBC and tours both nationally and internationally.
The Cathedral Choir comprises boy and girl trebles and adult lay clerks. Former choristers sing in the Youth Choir and have opportunities to serve as choral students, organ scholars and cantors at liturgies in both the Cathedral and the Lutyens Crypt.
Click here for information on joining the choirs.
During choir vacations, the cathedral welcomes visiting choirs from around the world to lead music at our liturgical celebrations.
The Cathedral Grand Organ was built by the English organ builders, J W Walker and Sons in 1967, with its distinctive façade designed by the Cathedral architect, Sir Fredrick Gibberd.
The Organ has been heard and enjoyed by millions of visitors, including Queen Elizabeth II and Pope John Paul II, and has been played by some of the world’s most famous organists including Jeanne Demessieux, Fernando Germani, Olivier Latry and Flor Peeters.
The Archdiocese is fortunate to have a number of dedicated and passionate staff who lead musical activities in the Metropolitan Cathedral and schools across the region.
Dr Christopher McElroy (Director of Music) has overall responsibility for the music department. He serves as Director of Music at the Metropolitan Cathedral, and leads the Archdiocese of Liverpool Schools Singing Programme.
Jacqueline Larrosa (Music Department Administrator) is the first point of contact for external enquiries.
Josie Baker (Choral Director) visits schools in the archdiocese as part of the Schools Singing Programme and directs the Metropolitan Cathedral Youth Choir.
Richard Lea (Organist at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral) plays the organ at cathedral liturgies and is responsible for the upkeep of the various keyboard instruments across the cathedral.
James Luxton (Assistant Director of Music at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral) plays the organ and conducts the choir at cathedral liturgies. He holds responsibility for the smooth running of the cathedral music library.
Danny Townley (Choral Director) visits schools in the archdiocese as part of the Schools Singing Programme and serves as curriculum and special events lead. He also directs the Knowsley Catholic Children’s Choir.
Joe Watson (Choral Director) visits schools in the archdiocese as part of the Schools Singing Programme and is responsible for the day-to-day direction of the girl choristers at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral.
Pauline McElroy, Samuel Ferry, and Emma Baker (Choral Directors) visit schools in the archdiocese as part of the Schools Singing Programme.
Ruth Anderson, Annamarie Newton and Barbara Ruzsics serve as the choristers singing tutors.
Jess Atkinson, Phillipa Bryan, and Rebekka Irwin serve as part-time Choral Directors visiting schools in the archdiocese as part of the Schools Singing Programme.
