One of the Northwest's foremost chamber choirs since 1970
New recordings!
When MD Keith took us into the recording studio recently, it was in order to lay down some tracks that would demonstrate our versatility as a choir. He also wanted to capture our current sound, continuing a legacy of recordings that stretches back to the very inception of the choir.
We think we have done him proud — but you can judge for yourself! Those track are now available on YouTube for all to listen, but you can listen to them here by visiting our new YouTube recordings page. And as a preview, one of the tracks is right here on the homepage. Go on, have a listen, and let us know what you think in the YouTube comments (But let's keep things civilised, mm-kay?)
The William Byrd Singers are one of the foremost chamber choirs in the North West, and were formed just over fifty years ago under our first conductor, the great and greatly missed Stephen Wilkinson MBE. Our current MD is Keith Orrell, whose eclectic programming has seen us tackle diverse repertoire including Hindemith, Vierne, and Wylkynson, as well as Bach's St. Matthew Passion and Byrd's Great Service
Upcoming Events
Just as the tide was flowing
Sun, 25 May 2025Just as the tide was flowing is the intriguing title for our Summer '25 offering. We offer for your consideration an entertainingly varied programme of music showcasing the versatility of ... more
Sing Joyfully in 2025!
Sat, 5 Jul 20252025's Sing joyfully workshop. In 2025 we shall be singing Claudio Monteverdi's glorious Beatus vir, and having suitably girded our collective loins, shall tackle the "other" 40-part motet, the one ... moreChristmas Oratorio
Sun, 14 Dec 2025We join a specialist period instrument orchestra and a team of reknowned soloists to perform Bach's delightful Christmas Oratorio at the Stoller Hall. More details to follow more
JOIN THE CHOIR!
You may be interested in making music with us, and in joining our merry band of Byrds. You can always ask at any concert, and our members will be only too happy to answer questions about being in the choir and the transporting experiences that come along with the hard work of rehearsals. But if you are serious about choral singing and want to find out more, visit our Membership page, where you can apply for an audition slot. We are a friendly bunch, but we keep our standards high, and because we are a chamber choir there will not always be an immediate vacancy to fill. But don't let that discourage you -- we are always happy to hear from motivated and experienced singers who want a fresh challenge!
We rehearse every Sunday afternoon at 1400, in the hall of Christ Church West Didsbury, Darley Ave, Manchester M20 2ZD.
