Twelve-year-old Eimear is preparing to make history at this year’s Carols at the Cathedral on 16 December, when she takes her place among the boys in the St Mary’s Cathedral choir, in the iconic event which will see girls and boys singing together for the first time in 200 years.
She and her fellow female choristers are making history, making St Mary’s the second cathedral in Australia, and the first Catholic one, to have girls joining the boys in its choir.
It was 1818 when Catherine Fitzpatrick first began training young voices to lift in praise to God within the sacred walls.
Even before official clergy arrived, she courageously established what would become Australia’s oldest permanent musical institution, a tradition that has endured for over 200 years.
“There’s a grace in ageing, and it’s beautiful to see the choir still singing wonderfully after over 200 years,” reflects Fr Roberto Keryakos, St Mary’s Cathedral Choir chaplain.
“It’s a source of pride and joy for those connected to its history, and to witness this new chapter with the girls joining in is incredible.”
Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP says sacred music “moves our entire being towards God, to contemplating his beauty, truth, goodness, to experiencing his love, our communion with him and each other.”
Yet preserving this sacred tradition requires more than inspiration; it demands substantial resources and unwavering commitment. It costs $3,500 per year to support each chorister, providing them with world-class musical education, intensive training, and the necessary support to excel.
With 37 young choristers currently in the program, support helps ensure these talented young people receive the formation they need to carry forward this 200-year tradition.
Year 6 student Eimear’s dedication reflects a deep love for her faith and her passion for singing. She catches a 6.52am bus each morning and she’s usually one of the first choristers to arrive by 7.30am for 7.45am rehearsal.
After a full day of classes – including piano lessons, flute lessons, and singing instruction – she returns for afternoon choir practice and evening Mass. She typically doesn’t get home until 7.30pm. That’s a 13-hour day for a 12-year-old.
“If things are important to her, she does it. She just takes it all on board,” says her mother.
Eimear will be a busy chorister this Christmas. She will be singing First Vespers on Christmas Eve in the presence of parishioners and Archbishop Fisher.
Then she’ll return for midnight Mass, one of the busiest Masses of the year in the packed cathedral. Finally, after perhaps five hours of sleep, she’ll sing the Christmas Day Mass with the archbishop and a full orchestra.
“As a fundraiser for St Mary’s Cathedral, I know how vital your support is at Christmas,” said Tania Penny, senior fundraising and marketing manager within the Development and Fundraising Office.
“When I met Eimear and her mum, I was struck by the passion and faith these young choristers bring to every note. This Christmas, let’s stand behind them. Your gift today will help keep the cathedral’s legacy endure.”
If you would like to support Eimear and her fellow choristers, you can donate here.
To purchase tickets to Carols at the Cathedral please go here.