Formed as the Werneth Gentlemen’s Vocal Society in 1884, the choir later became ‘Oldham Musical’ then ‘Oldham Choral’. The choir draws its members principally from Oldham and the surrounding area, with a few coming from considerably further afield.  It has become one of the leading choirs in the North West.

The repertoire includes most of the major Choral works, including Bach, Handel, Haydn, Mendelssohn, Verdi, Elgar. It has also performed many operas as concert versions, as well as musicals, operettas and Gilbert & Sullivan works.

The choir performs regularly in the Oldham area and also much further afield, members of the choir carrying the tradition of live music to many locations around Britain and Ireland, and to Finland, France and New York.

Dr David Cane became our Musical Director in January 2023.  As a professionally trained baritone and singing teacher, he is seeking to further develop the choir by improving vocal technique and delivery. His relaxed and friendly manner offers a warm welcome to new singers looking to join us.

2009 saw the Society’s 125th anniversary, which was marked with a series of special events and concerts.

Oldham Choral Society is a registered charity, No 518255.

April 2011