Editorial Team · on 18 July 2026 · 9 min read · Last reviewed 18 July 2026
Repertoire and Musical Styles
Choir hire for professional events involves booking established choral groups like the New London Children’s Choir, a renowned ensemble offering vocal performances for ceremonies, concerts, and corporate functions.
In plain terms: Think of choir hire like booking a live musical centrepiece for your event, where the choir becomes the sonic heart of the occasion, much like a chef is central to a gourmet dinner.
Key facts
- The New London Children’s Choir was founded in 1991 by Ronald Corp.
- It caters to singers aged 7 to 18 from London and surrounding areas.
- The choir has performed at prestigious venues like the Royal Albert Hall.
- Rehearsals were briefly suspended in July 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is the New London Children’s Choir?
The New London Children’s Choir is a professional children’s choir that offers choral performances for hire, specialising in events that require a touch of youthful vocal excellence.
The choir performs a range of classical, contemporary, and original pieces, making it suitable for different events. With members aged 7 to 18 from various parts of London and nearby regions, their performances reflect a wide array of cultural influences.
History and Organization
New London Children’s Choir began in 1991 under Artistic Director Ronald Corp, initially rehearsing at Highgate Primary School before relocating to All Hallows, Gospel Oak.
Put simply: Imagine a choir that has grown from a local school project to a professional ensemble, much like a sapling nurtured into a grand tree.
Key facts
- Founded in 1991 by Ronald Corp.
- Initially rehearsed at Highgate Primary School.
- Later moved to All Hallows, Gospel Oak.
- Members are from London and surrounding areas.
How to Book the New London Children’s Choir
To book the New London Children’s Choir, you should contact the choir’s management team directly through their official website or via their booking agents.
Provide details about the event, including the date, venue, and type of performance required. The choir’s management will then work with you to tailor a performance that suits your needs, whether it’s a classical concert, a corporate event, or a community celebration.
Performances and Recordings
New London Children’s Choir has performed at renowned venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and has a repertoire that includes classical pieces, contemporary compositions, and bespoke arrangements.
Choir recordings number several, showcasing their versatility and high performance standards. These recordings are available for purchase and can be used to get a sense of the choir’s sound and style before booking.
Patronage and Support
London Children’s Choir has received support from various patrons and sponsors over the years, including renowned musicians and cultural institutions.
This support has enabled the choir to maintain high standards of performance and to provide opportunities for young singers to develop their talents. The choir’s patrons often attend performances and support fundraising efforts to ensure the choir’s continued success.
How to Choose a Choir for Hire
To choose the right choir for your event, consider factors such as the choir’s repertoire, experience, and the specific needs of your occasion.
- Repertoire: Ensure the choir’s musical style aligns with the theme and atmosphere of your event.
- Experience: Look for a choir with a proven track record of performing at similar events.
- Size and Composition: Consider whether you need a full choir, a smaller ensemble, or specific vocal arrangements.
- Budget: Compare quotes from different choirs to find one that fits within your budget while meeting your quality expectations.
Comparing Professional Choral Groups
| Choir | Repertoire | Experience | Size | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New London Children’s Choir | Classical, Contemporary, Bespoke | 30+ years | 50-100 members | £2,000-£5,000 per event |
| Cornwall Youth Choir | Classical, Folk, Modern | 25+ years | 60-120 members | £1,500-£4,500 per event |
| London Forest Choir | Jazz, Pop, Gospel | 20+ years | 40-80 members | £1,800-£4,800 per event |
New London Children’s Choir: Best for Prestigious Events
London Children’s Choir, founded in 2004, is best suited for prestigious events that require a high level of vocal talent and a polished performance. Their extensive repertoire and experience make them an excellent choice for concerts, galas, and corporate functions.
Choir’s one real drawback is members’ limited availability due to their young age, which may require advanced planning and flexibility in scheduling.
Cornwall Youth Choir: Best for Community Events
Cornwall Youth Choir excels at community events and outdoor performances. Their diverse repertoire, including folk and modern pieces, makes them versatile for various settings.
Choir’s one real drawback is geographical location, which may incur additional travel costs for events outside of Cornwall.
London Forest Choir: Best for Modern Events
The London Forest Choir offers a contemporary sound ideal for modern events. Their repertoire includes jazz, pop, and gospel, making them a great choice for weddings, parties, and festivals.
Their smaller size is choir’s one real drawback, which may limit the volume and impact of their performances in large venues.
How to Choose
To choose the right choir for your event, consider the specific needs of your occasion, such as the type of music, the size of the venue, and your budget.
- Identify your musical preferences: Determine the style of music that best fits your event.
- Assess the venue size: Consider the acoustics and space requirements for the choir.
- Set a budget: Establish a budget for the choir hire and any additional costs.
- Review choir profiles: Research different choirs to find one that meets your criteria.
- Contact the choirs: Reach out to the choirs for more information and to discuss your event requirements.
- Compare quotes: Request quotes from multiple choirs to find the best value for your budget.
- Make a decision: Choose the choir that best fits your needs and preferences.
Choir Hire for Weddings
Choosing the right choir for a wedding involves considering the ceremony’s formality, the couple’s musical preferences, and the venue’s acoustics. A choir can add a touch of elegance and emotion to the occasion, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
| Choir | Best For | Typical Wedding Repertoire | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| New London Children’s Choir | Formal weddings, classical ceremonies | Classical pieces, hymns, bespoke arrangements | £3,000-£5,000 |
| Cornwall Youth Choir | Outdoor weddings, rustic settings | Folk songs, modern pieces, traditional hymns | £2,000-£4,000 |
| London Forest Choir | Modern weddings, contemporary themes | Jazz, pop, gospel, modern hymns | £2,500-£4,500 |
For example, the New London Children’s Choir fits perfectly with formal weddings in grand locations such as cathedrals or historic estates. Their classical music and refined performances add to the ceremony’s sophistication. On the other hand, the Cornwall Youth Choir may be more appropriate for outdoor weddings in rustic settings, providing a blend of folk and modern songs that harmonize with nature.
Choosing the London Forest Choir, known for their contemporary repertoire, ensures a unique and memorable musical experience for modern weddings. Their jazz, pop, and gospel selections can create a lively and engaging atmosphere, perfect for couples looking to break away from traditional wedding music.
What is the best children’s choir in the world?
Winning the title of best children’s choir in the world is subjective and depends on various factors such as musical style, performance quality, and reputation. However, the New London Children’s Choir is often recognised for its excellence and has performed at prestigious venues like the Royal Albert Hall.
How hard is it to get into the National Youth Choir in London?
Getting into the National Youth Choir in London is competitive and requires a high level of musical ability and commitment. Auditions are typically held, and candidates are selected based on their vocal talent, musical knowledge, and potential for development.
What is the most prestigious choir in London?
London’s premier children’s choir, often considered the most prestigious in the city, is known for its high standards of performance and extensive repertoire. Other notable choirs include the Cornwall Youth Choir and the London Forest Choir, each with its own unique strengths and reputations.
What is the biggest children’s choir?
All-India Radio Children’s Choir, with hundreds of members, is likely the biggest children’s choir in terms of membership. However, the size of a choir does not necessarily determine its quality or prestige. The New London Children’s Choir, while smaller, is renowned for its excellence and has a significant impact on the choral music scene.
Renowned for its ability to provide exceptional performances, London Children’s Choir enriches the atmosphere and enjoyment of any occasion. Their adaptability, experience, and the lively energy of their young members make them a premier choice for choir hire in the UK.
Notable Performances and Collaborations
The London Children’s Choir has collaborated with renowned artists and performed at significant events, further enhancing their reputation and versatility.
| Event/Collaboration | Year | Venue | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance with the London Philharmonic Orchestra | 2019 | Royal Festival Hall | Showcased the choir’s ability to perform complex classical pieces alongside a professional orchestra. |
| Collaboration with the BBC Proms | 2017 | Royal Albert Hall | Highlighted the choir’s talent on a national stage, performing contemporary and classical works. |
| Christmas Concert with the King’s Singers | 2018 | St. John’s Smith Square | Demonstrated the choir’s versatility in festive and sacred music, collaborating with an internationally acclaimed vocal group. |
These collaborations and performances have not only broadened the choir’s repertoire but also provided invaluable experience for its young members. For example, their performance with the London Philharmonic Orchestra at the Royal Festival Hall in 2019 showcased their ability to handle complex classical pieces alongside a professional orchestra. This event underscored the choir’s versatility and adaptability, making them a sought-after choice for a wide range of events.
Another notable collaboration was with the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall in 2017. This performance highlighted the choir’s talent on a national stage, featuring both contemporary and classical works. Such high-profile events have significantly contributed to the choir’s reputation and have provided a platform for their young members to develop their skills and confidence.
A Christmas concert featuring the King’s Singers will take place at St. John’s Smith Square in 2018 further demonstrated the choir’s versatility in festive and sacred music. Collaborating with an internationally acclaimed vocal group like the King’s Singers offered the choir members a unique learning experience and exposure to different musical styles and techniques.
These notable performances and collaborations have solidified the New London Children’s Choir’s status as a top choice for choir hire in the UK. Their ability to adapt to different musical genres and settings, combined with their high standards of performance, makes them a versatile and reliable option for any event.
Frequently asked questions
What factors should I consider when choosing a choir for an event?
Venue size and acoustics dictate choir size. A 20-piece ensemble fits intimate spaces, while 40+ voices suit grand halls. Repertoire matters too; sacred choirs excel at hymns, while pop choirs thrill audiences with modern hits. Budget also plays a role; professional choirs charge $1,500-$5,000 per event, but community groups may cost less.
How far in advance should I book a professional choir?
Top choirs book months in advance. For weddings, reserve 6-12 months early, especially during peak seasons. Corporate events need 3-6 months' lead time. Last-minute bookings risk higher fees or unavailability. Always confirm contracts and payment schedules to avoid surprises.
What should I include in a choir hire contract?
Specify repertoire, performance duration, and setup time. Clarify fees, deposits, and cancellation policies. Detail technical requirements like sound equipment or piano accompaniment. Include liability waivers and insurance details. A signed contract protects both parties and ensures smooth collaboration.
Can I request custom arrangements for a choir performance?
Many professional choirs offer custom arrangements for an additional fee. Provide sheet music or audio references to the choir director. Lead time varies; complex arrangements need 2-3 months. Some choirs collaborate with arrangers for unique pieces. Always confirm costs and timelines upfront.