Kingston Choral Society
Kingston Choral Society: A Musical Journey Through Time
The Kingston Choral Society, a prominent mixed-voice choir based in Kingston upon Thames, England, has been a cornerstone of the local music scene since its inception in 1949. With a membership of around 140 auditioned singers as of 2016, the choir has earned a reputation for its high-quality performances and commitment to choral music. Each year, the society stages four concerts featuring professional musicians and soloists, primarily held at All Saints Church in Kingston, St Andrew’s Church in Surbiton, or Cadogan Hall in central London. This article explores the rich history and evolution of the Kingston Choral Society, its significant milestones, and its contributions to the choral landscape in the UK.
Beginnings of the Kingston Choral Society
The origins of the Kingston Choral Society can be traced back to December 1949 when the Mayor of Surbiton organized a gathering of local church choirs to perform Handel’s beloved oratorio, Messiah. This event was not merely a one-off concert; it sparked the formation of a dedicated group of singers who decided to continue making music together. By March 1950, this nucleus had officially formed what was initially known as the Surbiton Oratorio Society.
As the choir grew and evolved over the years, it became increasingly involved with the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. By 1985, reflecting its deeper connection with the community and its broader musical aspirations, the organization adopted its current name, Kingston Choral Society. This change marked a pivotal moment in its history, steering it towards becoming an established entity within the local cultural framework.
The Evolution from the 1980s to 2008
The late 20th century was a transformative period for the Kingston Choral Society. In 1980, during rehearsals for a concert featuring Fanshawe’s African Sanctus, long-serving conductor John Wilkinson unexpectedly departed. Robin Page stepped in to conduct that concert and remained as musical director for an impressive 27 years. Under Page’s leadership, the choir flourished and gained recognition for its performances with various distinguished soloists. Notably, they featured a young Sarah Connolly—now a celebrated Dame—in 1992.
During Page’s tenure, Kingston Choral Society also commissioned significant new works. One such piece was Nicholas O’Neill’s The Clocks of Cassiodorus, premiered in 1999. Additionally, in collaboration with 46 other choirs, Kingston Choral Society contributed to commissioning The Kestrel Road from renowned composer Peter Maxwell Davies in celebration of his 70th birthday. The choir’s performance of this work in 2005 showcased their commitment to contemporary choral music.
The society also embraced opportunities beyond national borders; it performed internationally in cities such as Delft (twinned with Kingston upon Thames) in 1990, Venice in 2004, and New York City and Connecticut in 2007. Robin Page’s multifaceted career included roles as principal conductor for three orchestras and teaching at the Royal Military School of Music, further enhancing his influence on the choir.
Leadership Changes and New Directions (2008 to Present)
In 2008, following Robin Page’s departure, Graham Ross took over as musical director. Ross brought fresh energy and vision to the choir. He conducted Handel’s Messiah during the choir’s 60th anniversary concert in 2010 before leaving to assume a prestigious role as Music Director at Clare College, Cambridge—a position previously held by renowned composer John Rutter.
Subsequently, Andrew Griffiths took on the role of musical director later that same year. A graduate of The Royal Opera’s Jette Parker scheme for singers and conductors, Griffiths continued to build on the choir’s legacy while nurturing new talent within its ranks. Under his direction, Kingston Choral Society participated multiple times in the Kingston Festival of Voice organized by Kingston Arts—an event designed to celebrate vocal music across various genres.
The choir also continued its tradition of commissioning new works. In 2013, they premiered And Since to Look at Things in Bloom—a piece composed by former conductor Graham Ross—demonstrating their ongoing commitment to supporting contemporary composers and expanding their repertoire.
A Celebration of Community and Collaboration
In July 2015 and again in July 2018, Kingston Choral Society hosted joint concerts with their namesakes from Ontario, Canada—the Kingston Choral Society of Ontario—and North Lakeshore Chorus. These events were not only celebratory but also served as poignant remembrances of Canadian contributions during World War I. Such collaborations highlight the choir’s dedication not only to musical excellence but also to fostering international relationships through shared artistic endeavors.
Affiliations and Charitable Status
Kingston Choral Society is an active member of Making Music, which is part of the National Federation of Music Societies dedicated to promoting amateur music-making throughout England and Wales. Additionally, recognizing its broader social responsibility and commitment to community engagement, Kingston Choral Society operates as a Registered Charity under English law. Its charitable objectives focus on “the study and practice of choral music” aimed at educating the public through concerts and related activities.
Conclusion
The Kingston Choral Society stands as a testament to over seven decades of musical tradition and community involvement. From its humble beginnings as a gathering of local church choirs to becoming a respected institution within both local and international choral circles, it has continuously adapted while maintaining its core mission: to celebrate and promote choral music. With an impressive history marked by notable performances, collaborations with esteemed musicians, and contributions to contemporary compositions, the society remains an essential part of Kingston upon Thames’s cultural fabric. As it looks toward future performances and initiatives, Kingston Choral Society will undoubtedly continue to inspire both current members and audiences alike with its unwavering passion for music.
Artykuł sporządzony na podstawie: Wikipedia (EN).