In an event that is certain to remain on the minds of the members of the choir for years to come, the St Austin's Choir was given the opportunity to sing at the Vatican in addition to the Pantheon. Singing for the Vigil Mass at St Peter's Basilica on Saturday, the performance was a once in a lifetime opportunity for anyone that happened to be near Rome.

A CHOIR was given a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity to sing at The Vatican.

St Austin’s Choir were invited to sing at what is regarded as one of the most holy Catholic sites in the world.

The 25-strong choir sang music by Palestrina, Byrd, Tallis and Viadana for the Vigil Mass at St Peter’s Basilica on Saturday.

Patrick Ganley, director of music for the choir, said: “It went very well, and it was quite emotional.

“It is quite unusual for a church choir to be invited to sing for Mass, usually it is only cathedral choirs that are asked.

“It was a once in a lifetime experience.”

St Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest churches in the world.

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