About

About Us

What a fantastic evening. We could not have heard better at The Royal Albert Hall. Our congratulations to Henley Choral Society and to all those who made it possible

Audience member, Mendelssohn Elijah, 2022

In 2023 Henley Choral Society celebrated our special 50th Anniversary with an exciting schedule of events, including the world premiere of a new composition specially commissioned by Henley Choral Society from internationally renowned British composer, Cecilia McDowall. You can read more here

Henley Choral Society is a friendly, lively, non-auditioned choir of all ages. We aim to sing together to the highest standard, work with young professional talent, deliver an exciting and varied programme of concerts to the local community and encourage the next generation of singers. In keeping with our charitable objectives, membership for singers aged 18-30 is free!

There is no audition for membership. One of our aims is to show just how good a non-auditioned choir can be. At present we are looking for new members of the Tenor and Bass sections, other sections may by subject to a waiting list. All you need is a love of singing: an ability to read music is useful. Rehearsals take place at 7.30pm on Monday, currently at d:two, 55-57 Market Place,  near the centre of Henley. See map for location. See schedule for details of the current rehearsal schedule. For more information call Wendy Hawkins, Membership Secretary on 01491 576929.

We sing a varied repertoire, usually in three concerts a year. Concerts usually take place at St Mary’s or The Christ Church Centre in Henley, however we have also performed a number of sold-out concerts at the Concert Hall, Reading and have had the opportunity to sing in Henley’s twin towns Leichlingen and Falaise.

Members enjoy free singing workshops with our Musical Director and expert guest teachers while for major works we hold Come and Sing events where additional singers are welcome to join us.

HCS also has a busy social side – drinks in the pub after rehearsals, and celebrations after concerts and Summer and Christmas parties are regular events; we also organise special trips and singing opportunities. Many members make friends for life.

We also have two thriving non-auditioned Youth Choirs for ages 7-11 and 12-17. For more information see Youth Choir pages.

Henley Choral Society is a registered charity. Membership fees are on a par with other local choral societies.

We would love you to become part of Henley Choral Society – to sing with us, enjoy our performances, work with us or support us.  Please explore what we have to offer and get in touch. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Check out the pictures below to see us in concert over the years!

We run a wide range of workshops and singing events for our members, fellow singers and the public, led by our own Musical Director and guest conductors.