Children from all over Wiltshire are being offered the chance to see what it is like being part of a big cathedral choir.

Salisbury Cathedral Choir’s annual open day - Be a chorister for a day - for boys and girls in school years 2, 3 and 4 will be held on Saturday November 16. The day includes rehearsing and singing alongside the cathedral choir and is an informal and friendly way to find out about the opportunities and fun offered by chorister life.

David Halls, the cathedral’s director of music, said: “The children have a good time with the current choristers. As well as singing together, they can ask them all the questions they’ve ever wanted answered about life as a chorister - the daily routine, concerts, tours, recordings, radio and TV broadcasts, not to mention all the extra-curricular activities which choristers enjoy.

“Parents and guardians have their own schedule allowing them to gain an insight into chorister life from a family perspective and time to discuss all that is involved with the relevant cathedral and school staff.

“Our aim is to reach families with musically talented children who are not aware of what life as a chorister at Salisbury Cathedral offers.

“We want to break down the mystique and myths surrounding chorister life. Our choristers are ordinary children from ordinary homes who have a talent for music.

“True, these youngsters work very hard but they play hard too, their singing is widely appreciated and they learn important life skills. Our open day is a good way to show families what a fantastic time choristers have and see for themselves that becoming a chorister here is both desirable and possible.”

Any child in Years 2, 3 and 4 who would like to be a chorister for a day is welcome. For further details and an application form email: chorister.recruitment@salcath.co.uk or telephone 07587 826622.