About CCS

Celebrating 70 years

Cheltenham Choral Society has been a significant part of Cheltenham's musical life since 1938 when Islwyn Jones founded the choir of dedicated choral singers, which flourished until his death in 1974.

Roger Smith continued the tradition of choral singing until 1988. The repertoire of Cheltenham Choral Society extends from early music to new works composed by our Conductor and Musical Director Ian Higginson, who was appointed in 1989, and other composers of today. In 2006 Ian received an Arts Council Award for his new composition 'In Times of Trouble' and for his contribution to music in Cheltenham. Our conductor holds Fellowships from nine musical institutions both in the U.K. and abroad, three by examination and six honorary in recognition of his services to music as a conductor, composer, teacher and organist.

Our enthusiastic members are now enjoying the experience of singing in varied venues in and around Cheltenham. In June we welcome the opportunity to sing in the beautiful Tewkesbury Abbey, when we shall be joined by a hundred children from Leckhampton Primary School and Richard Pate's Junior Choir for a performance of John Rutter's 'Mass of the Children.'

Since 1993 we have had the privilege of having Dame Felicity Loti as our President. Earlier in her career Felicity sang with the Society, as did both her parents. Her support and interest in the Society have been much appreciated. We are delighted that this year we shall be back in the Town Hall for our annual performance of Handel's 'Messiah' when Dame Felicity Lott will be our soprano soloist. We have followed her International career with admiration.

Our 'Messiah' performance will be preceded by a celebration Dinner at The Thistle Hotel on Friday 29 November when we shall welcome Felicity and her mother.

During 2008 we shall be performing a varied programme of concerts. If you enjoy singing, come and sing with us.
Your support and interest in Cheltenham Choral Society and the concerts we perform are much appreciated.
New members will be very welcome.
Contact can made in several ways:
Beryl Neal 01242 510964
Tony White 01242 527521 e-mail: anthony.white1@ukonline.co.uk
by e-mail info@cheltchoralsoc.org.uk
Rehearsals: Wednesday evenings 7:30
Bethesda Church, (church or hall)
Great Norwood Street,
Cheltenham.