Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran recently surprised choristers at St Mary-le-Tower in Ipswich by officially opening their new music school.
The choir, which consists of nearly 40 young members, has been able to establish its Song School in a newly renovated building opposite the church on Tower Street. This space, which also serves as a community and well-being hub, is shared with Citizens Advice.
The church’s vicar, Reverend Tom Mumford, who has known Sheeran since their teenage years, praised the singer’s engagement with the young choristers, saying, “He was amazing with our young choristers, listening to them, asking them questions.”
He added that Sheeran is a passionate advocate for both the town and young people pursuing singing.
Sheeran, who resides near Framlingham north of Ipswich, appeared at the event in his Ipswich Town puffa jacket, and took the time to answer many questions about the football club, of which he is a prominent supporter and shareholder.
The choir, which has been featured on Classic FM and performed live on the BBC, had outgrown its previous location in another church building.
Thanks to a legacy from a parishioner, St Mary-le-Tower was able to renovate part of Tower House to create the new Song School.
Reverend Mumford expressed his hope that Sheeran’s involvement would inspire more young people to explore singing, stating, “What better place in Ipswich to do that than at Ipswich Minster.”
St Mary-le-Tower, a Grade II* listed church with medieval origins and 19th-century refurbishments, will be designated a minster in January, coinciding with the town’s 825th anniversary.
This designation acknowledges the church as one of key significance to the town, according to the Church of England.
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