Cecil Sharp House Choir are an incredible bunch of individuals that together create this soul searching sound. They were a dream to work with and listen to
Ben Eshmade, Daylight Music
Cecil Sharp House Choir has English folk song at the heart of its repertoire.
Since 2020 the Choir has been directed by inspirational choir leader Rose Martin. From its foundation in 2008 until 2019 the Choir was led by Sally Davies, who also arranged most of the Choir’s repertoire.
Cecil Sharp House Choir has become known for its spirited and moving renditions of traditional songs. The Choir concentrates on singing a capella folk and traditional songs from Britain and beyond. It is un-auditioned and is for confident singers who are able to hold a tune and are keen to perform. There’s no need to read music – all songs are taught by ear.
Cecil Sharp House Choir performs regularly at Cecil Sharp House and at a host of other venues and events such as at the British Library, Southbank Centre, the Roundhouse, the National Maritime Museum, Oslo Musikkfest and the House of Commons.
Who is the Choir for?
The Choir is for confident singers over the age of 16 who are able to hold a tune, willing to memorise song lyrics and vocal parts, and committed to performing. There’s no need to read music as all songs are taught by ear and performed from memory.
We do not hold auditions, although due to the popularity of the choir it can sometimes take a term or two before a space becomes available.
You need to book in advance for the full term.
Online rehearsals for Summer 2020
A traditional choral rehearsal experience is not possible online. During the Summer term, the Choir will predominantly be using creative ways to develop songs already in their repertoire and explore ways of singing together using available technology. New songs will also be introduced and learned, if not whole choir arrangements. Of course, there will also be the obligatory tea break (bring your own) and time to socialise as well.
New to Cecil Sharp House Choir?
It could be challenging to join the Choir at this time. Please read the information on this page carefully before signing up so you are clear about who the Choir is for and what the online sessions involve. If new to singing in a choir you may find our online Monday Folk Choir Workshops a better fit for you at this time.
When does the Choir meet?
Weekly on Wednesdays, 7–9pm
Due to Covid-19 related restrictions, if any session cannot take place at Cecil Sharp House it will take place online instead.
This is the best ongoing musical experience of my life
2019–20 rehearsal dates
Autumn term: 18 September – 11 December (no session 23 October)
Spring term: 8 January – 1 April (no session 19 February)
Summer term (ONLINE): 22 April – 15 July (no session 27 May)
2020-21 rehearsal dates
Autumn term: 16 September – 9 December (no session 28 October)
Spring term: 6 Jan – 31 Mar (no session 17 February) tbc
Summer term: 21 April – 14 July (no session 3 June) tbc
How to get the best from joining the Choir online
For the best possible experience you will need a computer with a webcam, microphone and ear/headphones. You will also need a stable home Internet connection or 4G-mobile connection (Note that using a mobile internet connection can be costly, check your mobile phone tariffs before choosing this option).
The choir will be taught using Zoom, with some additional material distributed via sound and video files. You do not need a Zoom account to join the course and will be able to access the sessions via your browser and our web links. A free basic Zoom account will, however, get you access to additional sound settings, which could be helpful if not essential.
You can also use the Zoom app on a tablet or even a mobile phone; however, a larger screen will give you a better overall experience. It is possible to join the choir sessions via a call from an ordinary landline, however, this would be a substantially different experience and we do not recommend this if you want to be able to make the most of the choir sessions.
Listen to Twice Good Morning
The recording by Cecil Sharp House Choir was recorded in Kennedy Hall at Cecil Sharp House, and features fourteen wonderful tracks that capture the spirit of the Choir and the building. Featuring a selection of glorious a capella harmony arrangements of traditional songs, mostly arranged by original choir leader Sally Davies, the recording draws on the best of the choir’s repertoire.
Other singing opportunities at Cecil Sharp House
You may also be interested in:
