Ex Cathedra to benefit from Culture Recovery Fund

The Culture Secretary has today announced the latest round of support from the UK government’s Culture Recovery Fund, in which Ex Cathedra has been awarded a grant of almost £57k.

More than £100 million has been awarded to cultural organisations across the country, with £56,944 going to the Birmingham-based choir and Early Music ensemble. This funding will provide vital work for Ex Cathedra’s freelance musicians despite the uncertainty of income caused by the pandemic.

Culture Secretary, Nadine Dorries commented: ‘Through unprecedented government financial support, the Culture Recovery Fund is supporting arts and cultural organisations so they can continue to bring culture to communities the length and breadth of the country, supporting jobs, boosting local economies and inspiring people.’

This funding will also support Ex Cathedra’s concert programme over the winter, with performances including the world-premiere of Liz Dilnot Johnson’s major work I Stand at the Door, and 12 performances of the choir’s much-loved Christmas Music by Candlelight concerts across the Midlands.

Peter Trethewey, Ex Cathedra’s general manager welcomed the funding: ‘We are extremely grateful for this support. Without it, the work done to navigate the first 18 months of the pandemic would have been severely jeopardised and the viability of Ex Cathedra thrown into grave doubt.’

Over £1.2 billion has already been distributed by Arts Council England as part of the government’s Recovery Fund, supporting organisations and sites across the country including museums, theatres, music venues and festivals.

Darren Henley, chief executive of Arts Council England, said: ‘This continued investment from the Government on an unprecedented scale means our theatres, galleries, music venues, museums and arts centres can carry on playing their part in bringing visitors back to our high streets, helping to drive economic growth, boosting community pride and promoting good health.’

You can find out more about the Culture Recovery Fund at the Arts Council England website.