The Chapter House Choir of York Minster

The Chapter House Arts Society, as the choir was originally called, met for its first rehearsal on 16 October 1965. Three friends who were associated with York Minster conceived the idea. With the Dean keen to involve congregations in social events, the three singer friends wanted to help raise money for the Minster as it entered a phase of urgent restoration work. They also wanted to make use of the Chapter House which, at that time, was closed to the general public. The original group comprised Minster Songmen, Clergy, their wives, local teachers and friends. Their first concert for the Minster appeal was on 18 December 1965 and was given in the Chapter House by candlelight, using borrowed candlesticks. The programme consisted of carols, harpsichord pieces and carols played on an antique set of handbells, owned and expertly played by the choir’s founder Director, Andrew Carter. A capacity audience set the pattern of success for the future.
Drama and readings were included the following year, in line with the original concept. The dramatic element gradually faded and in 1967 the name was changed to the Chapter House Singers and later to the Chapter House Choir.
Popular from the very beginning, the Carols by Candlelight concerts were held on two nights as early as 1971 and then three from 1976. With the exception of substituting organ for harpsichord, the format remains the same to the present day.
The carol concerts are now broadcast to a wider audience every Christmas Eve by BBC Radio. Tickets are much sought after and involve getting up very early to join a long queue!

The Chapter House Choir of York Minster on Guild Music

• GMCD 7166 Christmas with the Chapter House Choir in York Minster
• GMCD 7140 A Voice from Heaven

Page revised 17.05.05