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. Our Choir Leaders arrange most of the Choir’s repertoire often drawing on materials from our libary and archives.
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. Previous venues include the British Library, Southbank Centre, the Roundhouse, the National Maritime Museum, Oslo Musikkfest, Sidmouth Folk Festival 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 we encourage early booking to avoid disappointment.
You need to book in advance for the full term.
When does the Choir meet?
Weekly on Wednesdays at Cecil Sharp House, 7–9pm
This is the best ongoing musical experience of my life
2023 Summer term dates
19 April – 12 July 2023 (No session 31 May)
Advance booking required
Bookings normally open 6-8 weeks before the start of each term. A booking link for each term is always published under What's On/Courses.
Adult learning concessionary rates are available for people: in full-time education; in receipt of Job Seekers Allowance; or an income-based benefit. You will need to provide evidence of eligibility before your attendance at the class or course – either in person at the Box Office or emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
For more information, please visit our Terms & Conditions
Choir Leader Rose Martin
With firm roots in both the choral and folk traditions, Rose is a passionate believer in the power of singing together and sharing songs to create a strong sense of community and cohesion. Rose grew up in Kent, and later studied at Chetham’s School of Music, and King’s College London, where she cut her teeth as a choral scholar. Over the last ten years Rose has worked as a choral singer, conductor, workshop leader and teacher, and her musical journey has spanned many genres, with folk always being closest to her heart.
Rose loves to bring people together in song, and leads a number of office choirs in London. She’s a vocal coach and conductor for the Kent Youth Choirs, Musical Director of Note-orious, (an East Dulwich community choir) and has recently led a community singing project for Shakespeare’s Globe. As a performer, Rose has sung with some of the finest choirs around, and continues to sing in many genres, the common thread being singing with others! She is a member of the vocal group Shards, and has sung on many albums and film soundtracks with the London Contemporary Orchestra and London Voices. Growing up with an Irish heritage, Rose has always been fascinated by traditional music and has developed a wide knowledge and love for folk music from around the British Isles and the world. Her enthusiasm for folk music has also involved working with the Trad Academy, and with a collective of folky friends regularly playing and calling ceilidhs.
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.
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