About the Choir:

Founded as the 'Hastings Town Choir' in 1928 in order "to educate the general public in the art and science of music by means of the study, practice and performance of choral music", the choir has given many notable performances with distinguished conductors and soloists. In 1948 the choir won the Daily Telegraph Shield at the London Music Festival. Edmund Niblett put the choir on the map in the 1950's and Sir Adrian Boult became the choir's patron and gave it the 'Philharmonic' title. In recent years the repertoire has been broadened and there has been a wider approach to programming. This now includes a whole range of previously unexplored songs, cantatas and motets as well as new works and arrangements by contemporary composers.

As well as a full programme of concerts in and around Hastings, the choir enjoys exchange visits with a French choir, 'Mouette et Chansons' Chorale de la 'Baie de Somme' (web page) and a Dutch choir, 'The Orpheus Ensemble' (web page) from Hastings' twin town of Dordrecht (pictured here In joint concert for our 80th anniversary celebrations in 2008).

Membership is thriving, with current strength at over 90 voices. However, new members are always welcomed, particularly in the tenor and bass sections.  See the Join us page for details about joining the Choir.

Our Conductor

Our Conductor is Hilary Davan Wetton who joined us at the commencement of the 2008-09 season. See the Our Conductor page for more information about our distinguished and vastly experienced musical director.

Hastings Philharmonic Choir is a registered charity (No. 1029022) and is affiliated to the National Federation of Music Societies