If you were to ask nine-year old Arthur Bentley what he wants to be when he grows up, without hesitation he will tell you – a Paleontologist, “just like Dean Lomax”. But earlier this year, it wasn’t fossils which Arthur discovered, but rather a new hobby which has quickly grown into a keen passion…
Name:
Arthur Bentley
School:
Silcoates School
What made you first get involved with Wakefield Cathedral Choir?
I’d often find myself just watching TV on most evenings and it was my dad who mentioned the idea of taking up a new hobby and suggested the idea of joining the cathedral choir. We aren’t a Christian family, and I wasn’t so sure about it at first, however I really enjoy singing and because we live in Wakefield, I decided to give it a go! I was a bit nervous at first, but I have enjoyed it since the very first day.
What do you enjoy about being in the choir?
I love everything about being in the choir! I love singing amazing songs which I’ve never heard of before, being a part of the choir and the chance to make new friends, it’s been great.
What one word would you use to describe the choir?
AMAZING
Do you have a favourite memory from being in the choir so far?
I really enjoyed singing Te Deum: We Praise Thee by Benjamin Britten, the whole piece is amazing, it was eight or nine minutes long with some great variety and split parts, a really fun piece of music to perform.
Did you have experience with cathedral music before joining the choir?
Not really; I play the piano but enjoy playing a range of different songs and listening to different genres too, AC/DC being a particular favourite.
What else do you enjoy doing outside of the Cathedral Choir?
I really enjoy most sports, researching and watching documentaries.
Dr Ed Jones, Director of Music at Wakefield Cathedral added: “Arthur has been a wonderful addition to the cathedral choir and it certainly feels like he has been with us for longer than just a few months! We are delighted to have Arthur involved within the fantastic music scene here at the cathedral and I’d encourage anyone who has children which love to sing to give it a go, it’s an incredible experience with some great benefits… and all for free!”
At Wakefield Cathedral we are proud to host choirs for children of various ages, from Byrd Song (for children in Year Two to Four), to our Choristers (children in Year Four to Nine) through to the Youth Choir (children in Year Ten to Thirteen), boys and girls more than welcome.
To find out more about our different choir opportunities, rehearsal commitments and how to get involved, visit the Choir page on the Wakefield Cathedral website.
Find out more about joining the choir todayArthur with his Dad, Richard, at Wakefield Cathedral
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Cathedral Centre
8-10 Westmorland St
Wakefield
WF1 1PJ
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