Historic First: Girls Join Choir at St Paul’s Cathedral Christmas Service

Breaking Tradition: Girls to Sing at St Paul’s Cathedral this Christmas

For the first time in its 900-year history, St. Paul’s Cathedral in London will feature girls in its choir during the Christmas Day service.

This historic inclusion follows the official induction of the first two female choristers, 11-year-old Lila and 10-year-old Lois, who joined the choir in June 2024 after completing their probation and specialist training.

The decision to admit girls into the choir was announced in May 2022, aiming to provide equal opportunities for both genders in the cathedral’s musical programs.

Sarah Mullally, the Bishop of London, expressed her joy at this milestone, stating that she hopes Lila and Lois can inspire other young girls to pursue similar achievements.

St. Paul’s Cathedral, completed in 1711 and renowned for its iconic dome, has been the site of numerous significant events, including royal weddings and state funerals.

The inclusion of female choristers marks a significant step towards gender equality in its longstanding choral tradition.

This development reflects a broader trend among English cathedrals to include female voices in their choirs, promoting inclusivity and diversity within ecclesiastical music settings.