The South Devon Choir

It is believed that the South Devon Choir is probably the oldest established choir in the immediate area. Records have now been traced to show that it was founded in November 1871.

Investigations into the Choir's history are still being researched. It was originally the Paignton Choral Society and subsequently became the Choral section of the Paignton Operatic, Dramatic and Choral Society. Reverting to its former name in 1982 and followed by two subsequent name changes a few years later, it became the South Devon Choir in 2001 reflecting the wider area from which members came.

Over the years the Choir has sung with many leading amateur and professional orchestras including the Royal Philharmonic and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestras, the Bristol Symphony, the Bands of HM Grenadier Guards, Household Cavalry and Royal Marine Commandos, Lympstone.

Nearly all the historical oratorios, cantatas and choral works have been performed at concerts as well as 20th century compositions. In the last 15 years, the Choir has visited France four times including the Quimper Music Festival, has hosted choirs from Holland and France and created links with societies in Cornwall, Devon, Gloucestershire and North Yorkshire.

It has actively encouraged local school choirs to participate in works which include parts written specially for young people. For two, if not three of the concerts performed during a season, professional soloists are engaged and the Festival Orchestra, formed by the Choir using professional instrumentalists and music teachers, usually accompany the Choir.

You will see from the concert programme section of this web-site, the Choir is continuing its high standards and fine reputation. If you are a singer we will be delighted to hear from you if you would like to join us. If you prefer to attend our concerts, we extend a very warm welcome to you.