The Choir of University College, Durham & Will Sims
Biography The Choir of University College, Durham & Will Sims
Durham University Chamber Choir
is a close knit group of 25 choral singers. Reauditioned annually, the choir works toward the performance of their three main concerts during the academic year alongside numerous smaller projects. The ensemble attracts the best choral singers in Durham University and as a result has developed a reputation for excellence, both locally and further afield. The choir tours internationally every year and has performed in many prestigious venues both in the UK and abroad with internationally renowned soloists such as Russell Watson, Roderick Williams and Sir Thomas Allen.
The choir performs a wide variety of repertoire from both secular and sacred traditions, embracing opportunities to sing technically challenging music and develop a distinctive ensemble sound. The choir's repertoire ranges widely, incorporating music from Renaissance greats such as Byrd, Tallis and Victoria, through the 20th century genius of Hubert Parry and Benjamin Britten, to the stunning contemporary music of such as John Tavener and James Macmillan.
Classical choral singing is not the group's only niche however. A highlight of the Durham music calendar is the 'Music on the River' event in June each year which features the choir singing modern close-harmony arrangements in an informal setting. Members of the choir are also available to provide light entertainment both for events in the University, such as the Vice-Chancellor's Garden Party, and externally.
Individuals from the choir often go on to pursue successful careers in the music industry. Previous conductors include Ralph Allwood MBE, now one of the UK’s most sought-after choral conductors and Patrick Hawes, described by Classic FM as "one of the most popular contemporary English composers". More recent alumni have gone on to sing with the UK's foremost choral ensembles such as Tenebrae, I Fagiolini and The Sixteen.
