Hanna Rijken
Page 332 | 2025
Pilgrimages to English Cathedrals: the popular practice of visiting choirs from the Netherlands singing choral evensong in England
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?
