Music at the Cathedral

The musical life of St Mary’s Cathedral involves a rich tapestry of musicians and singers of different ages, abilities and backgrounds making liturgical music in different ways. At the very centre of this is the celebration of Mass: every week our various choirs and music groups lift the hearts and minds of people to God, and share beautiful sacred music with the worshipping community.

Sir James MacMillan to become Patron of Music at St Mary’s Cathedral

We are delighted that renowned Scottish composer, Sir James MacMillan, has agreed to become the Cathedral’s patron of music.

Sir James is recognised all over the world as one of the great modern composers, and his music is regularly performed by top international choirs and orchestras. We are really honoured that he has agreed to lend his support at this time, as we emerge from the pandemic and look towards the continued flourishing and strengthening of our musical life in the years to come.

On his recent visit to the Cathedral, Sir James recalled how hearing liturgical music at St Mary’s Cathedral made an important early impression on him: “There was something about attending Mass here, even as a little boy, that sticks very much in my mind. And the commitment of the Church to music at the core of the liturgy continues: it continues here in Scotland, it continues here in Edinburgh, and it continues here in this wonderful cathedral, where there has been a reinvigorated commitment to all the music makers and music that happens in various liturgies. I am therefore delighted to become the new Patron of Music here at St Mary’s Cathedral.”

‘With Angels and Archangels’ CD available to buy

‘With Angels and Archangels’ was released on 20 September and is available to buy via the online shop. The CD was recorded by the Schola Cantorum in March 2020 just before lockdown and was produced for us by Delphian Records. The album showcases some of the very best choral music sung at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral. It tells the story not only of our vibrant musical life, but of a shared search by Catholic composers for beauty and truth in sacred music. It’s a real must for anyone who loves beautiful choral music!

All proceeds from the sale of the CD will go directly towards ensuring the future of our cathedral music. In these troubling times when we are without our choirs, there is no better way to support the future of music at St Mary’s than by buying a copy.