Rochester Choral Society is a British choral society and registered charity (number 253877) with origins tracing to 1873. Founded as the "Rochester, Strood, Chatham and Gillingham Choral Society" by Reverend Canon W. H. Nutter, Precentor of Rochester Cathedral, it adopted its current name in 1934[3][5]. The society is recognized as one of the oldest-established choral groups in the UK[1][3].

History

The organization emerged from earlier choral activities in Rochester, including the "Rochester & Chatham Amateur Choral Society" active before 1846[5]. Rev. Nutter's 1873 initiative secured financial sustainability through donations and institutional support, including free rehearsal space at Rochester Guildhall[5]. Early performances occurred at venues such as the Corn Exchange and Aveling & Porter’s Lecture Hall, with collaborations including joint concerts with the Gravesend Choral Society by 1878[5]. Conductors like Herr J. A. Kappey of the Royal Marines contributed leadership and financial support during the late 19th century[5].

Activities

As a charity, its objectives include promoting public education and appreciation of choral music[2][4]. The secular choir performs regularly at Rochester Cathedral, a tradition maintained since 1922[3][5]. Repertoire spans traditional choral works and folk music, with programming often tied to local heritage events such as the cathedral’s 1,400th anniversary celebrations in 2004[3].

Membership and Performances

The society welcomes singers of all backgrounds[3]. Ticket pricing for concerts reflects accessibility aims, with £1 admission for schoolchildren and tiered seating costs[3]. Historically, membership included collaborations with military musicians from the Royal Engineers and Marines[5].

Note: Content sourced from publicly available charity records and organizational materials.

[1] https://www.rochesterchoral.co.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=253877&subid=0 [3] https://www.rochesterchoral.co.uk/about/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/253877/full-print [5] https://geofframbler.blog/2024/11/26/choral-singing-history-rochester-choral-society/