Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff is considering proposals to cut seven jobs in its music department in an effort to cut down a projected deficit of £81,000.
Those at risk of redundancy are five lay clerks, one choral scholar and the assistant organist. The job cuts would save the Cathedral almost £50,000.
The proposals include a budget to pay adult choristers on an occasional basis, for weekend services and those during special seasons such as Advent and Christmas. The cathedral will continue to support its voluntary Parish Cathedral choir.
Two weekday services would be affected by the proposed cuts: the full choral evensong service on Tuesdays and the Thursday evensong, which is sung by the men of the choir.
A spokesperson for the Cathedral said: ‘It is with a very heavy heart that we have taken the decision to put a number of roles in the Cathedral at risk of redundancy. However, we have a duty to be financially responsible and cannot run on a continuing deficit. We have considered all our options very carefully and feel these plans are the best way forward to enable us to save money while ensuring our choral tradition remains as good as it can be, and our music ministry has a secure future.’
The Cathedral also said it would ensure there would still be music at services every Sunday and six days a week.
No final decision has been made yet about the redundancies, and the Cathedral has said it is keen to hear from anyone who might be able to provide ideas or help. Visit the Cathedral's website for more information.