The Master Cutler to bring the joy of singing to hundreds of school children

“I am delighted to be able to support Sheffield Cathedral’s Schools Singing Programme and to help build a legacy that gives the gift of music to young people in this region for years to come.” said Charles. “Singing inspires and crosses cultures to bring beauty from the air we breathe. As such, it is like manufacturing in that it brings quality products from raw materials with the skill of the craftsman. Both are vital to this region and in the Company of Cutlers’ 400th anniversary year I am delighted to help the cathedral to raise the aspirations of young people and deliver life changing opportunities for the next generation.”

The cathedral’s 'Schools Singing Programme' is a pioneering project for Sheffield and the South Yorkshire region. The programme is being led by Tom Daggett, the cathedral’s new Director of Music. Tom joined the cathedral nine months ago from St Paul’s Cathedral in London where he successfully delivered similar programmes to thousands of children in some of London’s most deprived inner-city communities.

“We all know of the social, emotional and wellbeing effects of singing. It makes us happy” says Tom. “For children singing can be a safe place to turn to when feeling down but it also helps them to make friends, to develop the confidence to stand taller, to sing louder and to have the self-belief to overcome challenges in life. Children's faces light up when they sing! Sadly, too many children across this city are missing out on the joy of singing because schools do not have the resources to give their pupils meaningful musical experiences. This is why this programme is so important and will make such a positive difference to children's lives through opening their minds to what they can achieve.”

So far, the programme is only being delivered in a handful of Sheffield schools because of the limited funding available but its transformative effect is already clear to see. “Engaging with this fantastic new programme has been a wonderful experience for all our children and staff” explains Matt Sierczkarek, Headteacher of Prince Edward Primary School in Sheffield. “Children in our school don’t always get the same cultural opportunities other children may have but now, more than ever, being able to enjoy singing every week is enriching their lives. There is no other programme in school that makes our children feel so included, fulfilled and euphoric!”

Master Cutler Charles Turner is hoping the funds raised through his challenge will help improve life chances of hundreds more children, especially those living in more disadvantaged areas. He says, “I encourage all companies, organisations and people to sign up and get involved in this year’s Masters Cutler’s Challenge. Together we can raise hopes and aspirations and transform young lives forever.”

Information about the cathedral’s Schools Singing Programme and participating in or donating to the Master Cutler’s Challenge can be found by visiting Sheffield Cathedral’s website www.sheffieldcathedral.org or emailing [email protected].