Pilgrims’ and Winchester College
On 1st September 2025, the School merged with Winchester College marking a significant point in its history, having previously been owned by Winchester Cathedral.
Winchester College Chapel Choir
WINCHESTER COLLEGE CHAPEL CHOIR
In 1382, William of Wykeham, Chancellor of England and Bishop of Winchester, founded Winchester College alongside New College, Oxford. The original foundation included 70 scholars and 16 boys called ‘Quiristers’ whose duty was to sing in the Chapel. There are still 16 Quiristers today, upholding a tradition over 600 years old and they have come to school at Pilgrims’ since 1966.
The Quiristers are led by Dónal McCann and along with senior Winchester College boys and girls and members of staff, form the Winchester College Chapel Choir. They practice every day and sing at choral services in the College Chapel during term time.
The boys also perform in their own right across the UK and abroad.
QUIRISTERS’ RECENT PROJECTS:
- recording for BBC Radio 3
- concerts in Birmingham Symphony Hall
- recording at Abbey Road Studios
- performing with the English Chamber Orchestra
- recording with the London Mozart Players
- performing the children’s chorus in Carmina Burana at the Royal Festival Hall in London with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
- singing at Westminster Abbey
- joint evensongs with Eton College Chapel Choir and Winchester Cathedral Choir
We regularly post stories about the Quiristers on our socials, so please follow us. You can also visit our Latest News.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CHORISTERS AND QUIRISTERS
The Chapel Choir is renowned for its excellence, and is often invited to take part in recitals, recordings, broadcasts and tours, in the UK and abroad.
Joining Pilgrims & Senior School Destinations
Find out more about joining Pilgrims' and organise a visit or come to an Open Day.
Our Location
Set in the heart of Winchester’s Cathedral Close, the school enjoys a unique and peaceful setting between Winchester Cathedral and Winchester College, with the city on its doorstep and the South Downs countryside just beyond.