Pilgrimages to English Cathedrals.: The popular practice of visiting choirs from the Netherlands singing choral evensong in England
Rijken,Hanna
Rijken,Hanna
Abstract
A noteworthy trend has emerged wherein Dutch choirs travel to England to participate as visiting choirs during choral evensong in renowned cathedrals when the host choirs are on recess. New foundations have been established to organise these English cathedral music trips. The focus of this article is primarily on understanding the motivations that drive Dutch singers, especially in a (post-)secular era, to engage in the daily practice of singing liturgy in England. What is the inherent power of the cathedral music tradition in England, and how does it resonate with Dutch choirs? What do singers aim to bring back to their home country following their experiences and participation in choral evensong in English cathedrals? Finally, what might understanding the motivations and experiences of Dutch singers contribute to studies of cathedral music and religiosity more broadly?
Description
Date
2025-12
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Research Projects
Organizational Units
Journal Issue
Keywords
cathedral, cathedral music, music, Choral evensong, Choral singing, visiting choirs, Anglican, pilgrimage
Citation
Rijken, H 2025, 'Pilgrimages to English Cathedrals. The popular practice of visiting choirs from the Netherlands singing choral evensong in England', ABCD Choral Reserach Journal, pp. 332-348.