Girls make history after joining St Paul's Cathedral choir

Eleven-year-old, Lila and 10-year-old Lois say they are proud to make history as the first girls to join the St Paul's Cathedral choir.

Lila and Lois performed in the choir's Choral Evensong service on Sunday 30th June after months of special training and preparation.

It also means the pair have passed their trial period and have now taken up their positions as full members of the world-famous choir.

It's the first time girls have been able to fully join the choir in the cathedral's 900-year history.

"In 100 years time, girls will be wondering, who were the first girls? It's us," says Lila.

Lila and Lois have been in training within the St Paul's Cathedral choir since September 2023.

At their first service at the place of worship on Sunday, they were presented with their surplice. This is the white gown worn over a special black coat called a cassock and shows they are now officially St Paul’s choristers.

“The whole experience has been really breath-taking! We were just two girls minding our business until this happened: it's been absolutely amazing," said Lois.

"The training is fun and it's hard at the same time. We learn new things every day and it builds up your confidence. It's great being taught by people who know so much about music.”

Lila has also enjoyed being a part of the choir.

“It's just amazing to be part of such a huge moment. In 100 years time, girls will be wondering, who were the first girls? It's us. Equality really matters to me. It is amazing to know you are making a difference. I've always enjoyed a challenge; I like to keep myself busy. I hate being bored and I like to have a sense of purpose. I love being busy and being in central London," she said.

The Choir practices together everyday, and Lila and Lois will sing during services at the cathedral, as well as on special occasions, at concerts and at events of national importance.

“It is a great joy to welcome Lila and Lois into the Cathedral community. It was profoundly moving to see the culmination of their hard-work, and God-given gifts on show, at the service on Sunday evening," said Dame Sarah Mullally who is the first female Bishop of London.

"I hope that Lila and Lois can be an inspiration to other young girls as to what can be achieved, in what is a huge milestone in St Paul’s 900-year history.”

The announcement that girls would be able to join the choir was first made in May 2022.

It was also announced St Paul's Cathedral and school would "undertake the practical arrangements needed to provide a truly equal offer for girl and boy choristers".

This included plans for a fundraising campaign, as well as measures to ensure the cathedral's scholarship programme can be delivered equally to both boys and girls.