the tallis Academy
Where musical excellence meets personal growth. Inspired by the renowned English cathedral choir tradition, the Tallis Academy offers exceptional training in singing and musicianship, helping young people develop confidence, discipline, creativity, and leadership within a supportive and inspiring community.
Thomas Tallis
(1505-1585)
A native of the original Greenwich in England, Thomas Tallis was the pre-eminent church musician of his generation and is widely regarded as the father of the English choral tradition. A devout Catholic, he served all five Tudor monarchs during the turbulent years of the English Reformation, producing music of extraordinary beauty and craftsmanship.
Today, Tallis's works remain central to the repertoire of the world's finest cathedral and collegiate choirs. The Tallis Academy takes its name from this remarkable composer as a symbol of our commitment to musical excellence, artistic discipline, and the formation of young singers.
From Bishop Frank J. Caggiano
"Music is where art and science meet - because through music, reason is clothed in beauty; thus Christ's invitation is presented in such a way that is both compelling, and convicting."
A New Tradition for Greenwich
Beginning in Fall 2026, we will launch the Tallis Academy, named for the English Renaissance composer Thomas Tallis, who lived and worked in Greenwich, England. Inspired by the great English cathedral and collegiate choir traditions, the Academy will offer children a rare opportunity to receive a professional-level musical education within a supportive and inspiring community.
The European Cathedral Choir Model
For centuries, Europe's cathedrals have educated young singers through a distinctive model of chorister training. Children learn not only how to sing, but also how to read music fluently, understand music theory and history, develop confidence and discipline, and work together towards a shared artistic goal. Many of the world's leading musicians began their musical journeys as cathedral choristers.
Musical Excellence, Character Formation, and Faith
Inspired by the renowned European cathedral choir tradition, the Tallis Academy offers exceptional training in singing, musicianship, music theory, and music history. Alongside this musical education, students will receive age-appropriate Catholic liturgical formation, developing an understanding of the Church's worship, traditions, and sacred musical heritage. Through participation in a supportive and purposeful community, children will cultivate confidence, discipline, leadership, and creativity while acquiring the skills necessary to perform great choral music to a high standard.
More Than Just a Choir
The Tallis Academy seeks to bring this time-honoured tradition to Greenwich. Through a carefully structured programme of vocal training, musicianship, music theory, music history, and ensemble singing, children will acquire the skills necessary to perform ambitious choral repertoire to a high standard. Along the way, they will develop concentration, teamwork, leadership, and self-confidence—qualities that serve them well both inside and outside the rehearsal room.
Discover the Tradition: Choir Camps
As a first introduction to the Academy, we will be offering a series of Choir Camps during 2026. These enjoyable day-long events will give children the opportunity to experience singing in a choir, learn new musical skills, make friends, and discover the beauty of the choral tradition in a welcoming environment.
The Exploratory Year
Following the Choir Camps, the Academy will begin its Exploratory Year in Fall 2026. Meeting weekly, participants will receive comprehensive instruction in vocal technique, sight-singing, music theory, music history, and musicianship. This foundational year is designed to prepare children for the more advanced choral work that lies ahead, while helping families determine whether the Academy is the right fit for them.
Who Can Join?
No prior musical experience is required. We are simply looking for children who enjoy singing, are eager to learn, and are excited by the prospect of being part of something special.
Scholarships Available
Scholarships for the program will be available to all participants through the generosity of our founding donors.