Vicars choral

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The Vicars Choral are the men of the Cathedral Choir. They are not in holy orders; the word ‘vicar’ comes from Latin word ‘vice’ (meaning: ‘in place of’) and simply means a deputy (as in vice-president). The Vicars Choral were substitutes for the canons. Ever since the 1100s they have sung the daily round of Divine Services on behalf of the canons.

In the Middle Ages, there are generally nine Vicars Choral in Divine Services, all trained singers, who are paid a stipend by the Chapter and are provided with housing in Vicars Close, to house the men of the choir. The Vicars Choral are generally supplemented by three Choral Scholars, making a total of twelve men in the Choir, all of whom live in the Close. Choral Scholarships are offered by the Chapter generally to younger student singers for one or two years, often immediately before or after they attend university.

[edit] External link

• [1] Bedern Hall, the 14th century dining hall of the Vicars Choral of York Minster