Patron: The Former HRH The Prince of Wales
Chorus Master: Gavin Carr
Accompanist: Timothy End
Arts Council England

Join Us

The Philharmonia Chorus recording Beethoven's Ninth Symphony with the Philharmonia Orchestra conducted by Benjamin Zander, Watford Colosseum, March 2017


We are always happy to hear from singers and to welcome new members in all voice parts. We like to think that our exciting programme of engagements, the emphasis that we place on training and development, and the warm and friendly atmosphere in rehearsals make us the obvious choice for anyone with ambition to sing in one of the world's leading symphony choruses.

So if you have a passion and a talent for singing and would like to sing in first-class concerts with the finest orchestras and conductors in the major concert halls, we would like to hear from you!

Entry to the Chorus is by audition with the Chorus Master. The reputation of the Chorus is founded on the warmth and fullness of its tone, its meticulous preparation in rehearsal, and its sensitive response in performance. We therefore look to welcome singers whose vocal technique and musical accomplishment is suitable for top-level singing.

Most of our performances take place in London, but we also undertake other engagements elsewhere in the UK, and there is usually at least one overseas tour every year. Over the years the Chorus has also built up a fine reputation for its many recordings.

As you would imagine, we take our singing seriously, but joining the Chorus is also a great way to meet like-minded people from all walks of life, to socialise and form long-lasting friendships.

There is no financial commitment as there is no membership fee, music is provided free of charge, and places on tours are free.


You can see what singing in the Philharmonia Chorus is like in this video.


Here are answers to questions you may have:

What is involved in the audition?

You will be asked to sing a short classical piece of your own choice which you will be expected to prepare thoroughly (there will be an accompanist there), and do a brief sight-reading exercise. Our Auditions Coordinator will be happy to advise you about suitable audition times and answer any queries you may have.

When and where do you rehearse?

In Central London. Usually on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 6.30-9pm at the Indian YMCA, 41 Fitzroy Square, London W1T 6AQ. Nearest tubes are Warren Street and Great Portland Street. Map: Indian YMCA

Members are required to attend a minimum of 80% of the rehearsals for any given project.

Can I attend a rehearsal before auditioning?

Yes. Please contact our Auditions Coordinator about a convenient date to attend.

Do I have to buy my own music?

No - we provide all music is free of charge

Do I have to sing in every concert?

Generally, we encourage members to sing in every concert if they can, and of course we hope that they would want to. That said, commitment can be tailored to personal circumstances.

Occasionally there is an element of selection depending on the work, venue and conductor's requirements.

Interested? Here's what to do next:

Contact our Auditions Coordinator, Ayano Sasaki-Crawley
Email: ayano@philharmoniachorus.co.uk