About the Choir

Founded in 1914 by Alan Kirby, the Croydon Philharmonic Choir quickly became recognised as one of the best in the country, particularly for its performances of Elgar. Alan Kirby conducted the Choir until his death in 1959 and under his baton it became strongly associated with some of the leading figures in British music, performing with many eminent conductors, orchestras and soloists.

Alan Kirby was succeeded by Myers Foggin and then in 1973 by James Gaddarn, who considerably developed the Choir's repertoire and versatility. His tenure included the commission and first performance of two major works - Heloise and Abelard by Dame Elizabeth Maconchy and Antonín Tučapský's Stabat Mater.

Our current Music Director, David Gibson has continued to take the choir into new territory, combining little–known works which deserve a wider audience with perennial favourites, and venturing beyond the Fairfield Hall to explore new venues in London and the south of England. Forthcoming concerts are planned at The Anvil in Basingstoke and London’s Cadogan Hall.

The mixed choir of over 100 singers enjoys exploring a wide repertoire of music including major choral works of the 18th to 21st century, smaller scale pieces and music from film and opera – not only in concert but at voice workshops and in collaboration with other choirs.