Alice reaches Young Chorister semi-finals

Norwich Cathedral chorister Alice Platten has her sights set on being crowned BBC Young Chorister of the Year after reaching the final stages of the prestigious nationwide competition that celebrates the contribution made by young people to choirs across the UK.

You can watch Alice compete in the girls' semi-final on BBC One's Songs of Praise at 1.15pm on Sunday 4 December.

16-year-old Alice is one of just 10 choristers across the country in the running for the coveted accolade after impressing judges during the first round of auditions in the summer.

It is the second time that Alice has wowed the BBC judges as she previously reached the BBC Young Chorister of the Year semi-finals in 2020.

The talented Norwich School pupil took part in the recording of the competition in Manchester in October. The competition, which is run jointly by BBC Radio 2 and Songs of Praise, is being broadcast on both radio and television in the run up to Christmas.

Alice said: ‘I’m so excited to be representing the Cathedral in my final opportunity in the BBC Young Chorister competition. If it’s anything like it was two years ago, it will be great fun!’

The Revd Dr Peter Doll, the Acting Dean of Norwich, said: “I am delighted that the BBC Young Chorister competition has recognised the special gifts and musicianship that Alice brings to her singing; the whole Cathedral community wishes her every success.”

Alice, who is the daughter of Norwich Cathedral’s Canon Precentor, the Revd Canon Aidan Platten, has been a Norwich Cathedral chorister for the last five years and previously sang in the choir of St Mark’s Hamilton Terrace, London. She also plays the violin and piano. She is studying A-levels in music, English and history. As well as enjoying music, Alice loves drama, reading and the outdoors.

Five girl choristers and five boy choristers nationwide will be performing in the semi-finals to a star-studded panel of judges before three girls and three boys progress to the final where one young singer will be crowned BBC Young Chorister of the Year and one will be given the Highly Commended accolade. The winner will appear on Songs of Praise and have the chance to take part in BBC Radio recordings.