INTRODUCTION
The scheme is designed as an aid in training choristers under the age of 18 from all denominations and to encourage them to achieve a higher standard of singing and musicianship. It has the advantage that the candidate will be examined by an impartial third party, who will be able to give unbiased and constructive criticism, so that the examination can be used as a yardstick by which to measure ability and achievement.
The scheme is open to choristers of all denominations and the syllabus has been compiled carefully with this in mind. The awards are of two types:
| DEAN'S AWARD The Dean's Award is the preliminary examination and, although musical technique and ability are judged, primary consideration will be given to the basic requirements of singing in a church choir. |
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BISHOP'S AWARD The Bishop's Award concentrates more on a chorister's musicianship and interpretative ability and should be attempted only after considerable experience and preparation. The Dean's Award must in any case have been obtained before entry can be made for the Bishop's Award. |
EXAMINATION AND ENTRY DATES in 2010 (subject to applications)
| Bexhill/Eastbourne | Brighton | Chichester | Worth |
| Last Saturday in January First Saturday in July |
First Saturday in February Last Saturday in June |
Last Saturday in January First Saturday in July |
First Saturday in February Last Saturday in June |
| The closing dates for entries are: | The current fees are: |
| 30 April for summer examinations 30 November for winter examinations. |
Dean's Award, £18 Bishop's Award, £22. |
Dean's Awards are presented in Chichester Cathedral and Bishop's Awards at a special ceremony in the Bishop's Palace.