Escafeld Chorale is a mixed choir of around 60 singers, based in Sheffield. We have been part of the city’s music scene for over 50 years, performing everything from large-scale choral works to intimate unaccompanied part-songs.

We welcome singers who enjoy making music together and want to develop their singing in a friendly, supportive environment.

Tuesdays during term time, 7.30–9.30pm
Banner Cross Methodist Church, Ecclesall Road South, Sheffield S11 9PE

There is a 15-minute break at 8.30pm – and, importantly, there is usually cake or biscuits!

Music is provided and you don’t need to be an expert sight-reader to join us. Members are encouraged to practise between rehearsals using online rehearsal resources, particularly when preparing for a concert.

There are also occasional opportunities to sing solos or perform in a smaller group or semi-chorus. These are rehearsed within our normal rehearsal sessions.

[See what we have sung in recent concerts →]

We regularly work with talented local soloists, accompanists and orchestras. We also enjoy supporting emerging musicians through our Associate Soloist scheme and by engaging young instrumentalists to accompany our performances.

In June 2026, for example, we joined Sheffield Symphony Orchestra and Hallam Choral Society for a performance of Verdi’s Requiem.

We take our music seriously, but we’re a friendly and sociable group. Some members meet for a drink and a chat at a local pub after rehearsals, and new members are always welcome to join them.

We also enjoy supporting our local community, sometimes raising money for charities through our concerts and through carol singing in Sheffield city centre.

Escafeld Chorale was founded in 1969, originally as the Fossdale Singers, by Ron Law and a small group of friends. In 2019 we celebrated our 50th anniversary with two special concerts featuring favourite works from our first half-century, including a piece by Ron Law himself.

Over the years, a succession of musical directors has helped the choir develop and broaden its repertoire. Francis Wells conducted the choir from 1983 to 2001 and returned as musical director from 2016 to 2017. He was followed by Peter Dutton (2001–2013), Ian Roberts (2013–2016) and Nigel Russell-Sewell (2017–2022).

Our current Music Director is George Parsons, who was previously the choir’s accompanist and took up the baton in September 2022.

Under each musical director, the choir has continued to expand its repertoire and musical ambitions.

Escafeld Chorale is a registered charity, run in accordance with Charity Commission requirements.

Our officers and committee members are elected annually at the AGM in October.

For practical information about being a member – including subscriptions, concert dress and other frequently asked questions – see our [Information for Members] page.

You can also read our [Constitution] and [Safeguarding Policy].