Carols in the Cathedral
Visitors experience a grand presentation of traditional Christmas music, carols, and readings in the setting of St Paul's Cathedral. Massed choirs, soloists, a chamber orchestra, brass, percussion, and a highland pipe band perform festive works together. The program features classic carols such as 'O Come All Ye Faithful' and 'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing' along with works by composers from around the world.
What to Expect
Traditional Christmas music, carols, and verse in St Paul's Cathedral.
Event Details
Ages
Recommended for 8+
Neighborhood
Melbourne CBD
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Royal Melbourne Philharmonic
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Fans of traditional christmas music and choral concerts
Vibe
Grand and festive
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Fri 8:30 pm; Sat 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm.
Tips & Advice
- Book as soon as tickets go on sale through Trybooking, because these concerts almost always sell out well in advance.
- Buy all ticket types, including Premium Tickets, through Trybooking on the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic website, as every booking goes through there.
- Arrive in good time, as the doors at St Paul's Cathedral open half an hour before each advertised concert start.
- Choose the Saturday afternoon concert if an evening performance doesn't suit you, since three concerts run across Friday and Saturday.
Special Events & Promotions
- Soprano Rachael Joyce, winner of the 2026 RMP Aria, is a special guest soloist
- Tenor Boyd Owen joins as the second special guest soloist
- Premium Tickets are available through Trybooking
- A Saturday afternoon concert runs alongside the two evening performances
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What music is on the program?
Traditional carols like 'O Come All Ye Faithful', 'Once in Royal David's City' and 'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing', along with Christmas readings. There are also works by composers including Elaine Hagenberg, Kim Andre Arnesen, Lloyd Larson, Dan Forrest and William G. James.
Who's performing?
Andrew Wailes conducts, with soprano Rachael Joyce, winner of the 2026 RMP Aria, and tenor Boyd Owen. Also performing are The National Boys Choir of Australia, the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Choir, Melbourne University Choral Society and Box Hill Chorale. They're joined by RMP Orchestra soloists, the RMP Brass and Percussion Consort, the City of Melbourne Highland Pipe Band, organist Andrew Bainbridge, pianists Stefan Cassomenos and William Schmidt, and readers Roland Rocchiccioli and Julie Houghton.
How do I get tickets?
All tickets, including Premium Tickets, are sold through Trybooking on the RMP website. They go on sale Friday 9 October.
Do the concerts sell out?
Almost always, and well in advance, so book early.
More Christmas Events Near Melbourne
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
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