Streatham Choral was founded in 1921 and has entertained local people with high-quality music ever since.
First established as the West Streatham Choral Society, then Streatham Philharmonic Society, the choir sang with its own orchestra in its first incarnation. In 1960s, the choir became an ILEA-supported evening class but, when responsibility for education was passed to each London Borough, the members decided to re-launch the choir as a self-governing organisation, relying on subscriptions and income from concerts.
We pride ourselves on being a friendly and diverse choir, drawing in members from a wide range of ages and backgrounds. Numbers vary from year to year, but the choir is usually circa 160 strong, allowing us to perform a wide repertoire. Streatham Choral collaborates with a range of professional soloists and has recently formed a partnership with Brandenburg Sinfonia, which invariably joins us for our larger concerts.
Streatham Choral performs regularly at St Leonard’s and St Peter’s churches, and has recently produced critically acclaimed performances of Handel’s Messiah and Mozart’s Requiem at Cadogan Hall. We rehearse every Monday evening during term time and typically hold one extra Saturday rehearsal per term.
“Streatham Choral should not be underestimated. Their performances consistently demonstrate a rare combination of disciplined preparation, musical intelligence, and genuine expressive commitment. From the very first bars of a performance, it is clear that this is an ensemble that approaches its work with both enthusiasm and a deep respect for musical line, structure, and stylistic integrity.
Under the expert guidance of their exceptional music team, Calum and Sam, the choir’s preparation is meticulous. Every entry, dynamic contour, and phrase reflects careful rehearsal and a shared understanding of the score’s demands. Yet what is most striking is the choir’s ability to balance this precision with a compelling emotional presence. They project power without sacrificing clarity, and they sustain musical flow even in the most challenging passages. The result is performances that feel both polished and heartfelt.
Streatham Choral is clearly a group on an upward trajectory, and their continued development will be well worth following. This is an ensemble with ambition, discipline, and a distinctive musical voice.
It is always a great pleasure for the Brandenburg Sinfonia to perfom alongside them.”