Small Sounds, Big Impact
In 2025/26, the Cathedral Music Trust plans to expand the ‘Small Sounds’ programme to twelve cathedrals across England, in areas where children face barriers to the their development.
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NEWCASTLE CATHEDRAL
NEWCASTLE CATHEDRAL
A BEACON OF LIGHT
Cathedral Music Group for Little Ones Celebrates Its First Six Months
Published May 2025
A music-making group at Newcastle Cathedral for children aged 0 to 5 and their grown-ups returned today on 1 May 2025, for its first session after Easter, having celebrated a successful first six months
The ‘Small Sounds’ group meets every Thursday morning during term time, from 10:15 to 10:45am, offering little ones a vibrant introduction to the joys of music.
These fun and free interactive sessions are designed for babies, toddlers and preschoolers and are funded by the national charity the Cathedral Music Trust. They are one of the many ways Newcastle Cathedral lives out its commitment to nurturing a love for music among people of all ages.
Held in the beautiful main space of the Cathedral, the sessions regularly attract more than 20 attendees and create a welcoming atmosphere for families of all faiths and none.
Alison Rees, who attends the sessions with her 8-month-old son Alec, says, “Singing with my little boy in such a beautiful and welcoming environment is such a joy. Alec’s Gran has also joined us at the sessions, and it’s been such a lovely thing to do together as a family.
“It’s been amazing to see how curious and explorative Alec is at the group as he meets other little ones and joins in with exploring the world through making different sounds and joining in with musical play.”
The sessions are led by Kate (19) and Alessia (20), staff members at the Cathedral, who have received expert training from the Cathedral Music Trust, enhancing their ability to deliver enriching early years experiences.
Alessia says, “It’s amazing to watch the little ones light up through music and see parents grow in confidence week by week. Helping families connect through rhythm, movement and song has been so special. I’ve grown so much in the process, too – developing my confidence, creativity and ability to lead in a way that makes everyone feel included and supported.”
Research suggests that children who engage in creative music-making alongside their families build musical foundations that can be developed as they become older. Parents and carers who continue to enjoy music-making activities with their children at home grow in confidence themselves, leading to happier and healthier lives.
Cathy Dew, Director of Programmes for the Cathedral Music Trust, says, “Making music from a very young age helps children meet developmental milestones and sets them on a lifelong musical journey, giving them the skills they need to join a choir. We want to help more children discover the joy of singing!”
In addition to Small Sounds, Newcastle Cathedral offers weekly after-school programmes during term time: Mini ChoriStarters for children in Reception and Year 1 on Tuesdays and ChoriStarters for Year 2 on Mondays, which provides an introduction to life as a Cathedral chorister. These sessions are also free to join.
Ian Roberts, Director of Music at Newcastle Cathedral, adds, “Unlike many cathedrals, Newcastle does not have a chorister school, and we take pride in introducing music to children of all ages and backgrounds. Small Sounds has been incredibly well-received, and I am grateful to the Cathedral Music Trust for making this initiative possible.”
More Lovely Stories from Small Sounds
“I’ve been taking my daughter to Small Sounds since she was 3 months old. She absolutely loves the sessions. We sing all the songs at home that we’ve learned at Small Sounds. The Small Sounds leaders are brilliant, and so welcoming to everyone. I highly recommend coming along to a session.”
— Anne
“Small Sounds was fantastic for my daughter Lottie, who went from when she was 8 weeks – she’s 9 months now. The sessions are very friendly and relaxed, and Lottie has always enjoyed every session. They do a variety of different songs and activities to keep the babies and children interested throughout the whole session. Lottie has come on fantastically from the sessions and really loves songs and music, which I think has a lot to do with Small Sounds. It also benefitted me as a great way to get to get out of the house in the early days and to meet other mums while on maternity leave.”
— Jocelyn