LEADING figures in the world of church music are to be presented with church music awards in a special service to be held at Salisbury Cathedral.

Among those being presented with honorary awards by the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) are Pam Rhodes and Noël Tredinnick, who are both well known from BBC Television’s Songs of Praise, and composers Malcolm Archer and Professor Philip Wilby.

The celebration day will feature a wide range of choral music from Hildegard of Bingen and Haydn to contemporary pieces written by some of those receiving awards.

Singers from RSCM-affiliated choirs in the region will join together with the RSCM Midlands & South West Cathedral Singers, under the direction of David Ogden.

Salisbury Cathedral’s Boys Choir and Girls Choir will also be taking part, and the organ will be played by Daniel Cook.

Also receiving certificates and diplomas will be students who have completed the RSCM’s Sacred Music Studies course. This distance-learning programme enables musicians, clergy and worship leaders to understand the role of music in worship, and learn to use their musical skills more effectively.

The annual service takes place in a different cathedral each year, and this is the first time it has been held at Salisbury since the organisation moved its administrative office to Sarum College in the Cathedral Close in May 2006.

Director of the RSCM Lindsay Gray said: “I’m delighted that we are hosting the Celebration Day in Salisbury this year, enabling us to strengthen the RSCM’s links with the Cathedral, Diocese and community. It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the work of RSCM volunteers, members and students, as well as honouring those who have made special contributions to sacred music at a national and international level.”

Members of the public are very welcome to attend the service, which begins at 5.30pm on May 16.