Editorial Team · on 18 July 2026 · 8 min read · Last reviewed 18 July 2026
Kerslake robshaw foundation guide is the focus here. The Kerslake Robshaw Foundation is a philanthropic supporter of the New London Children’s Choir, a renowned children’s choir based in North London.
In plain terms: Think of the Kerslake Robshaw Foundation as the backstage crew for the New London Children’s Choir, ensuring the curtain stays open for performances by funding rehearsals, training, and community outreach.
Key facts
- The New London Children’s Choir was founded in 1991 by Artistic Director Ronald Corp.
- Members ranged in age from seven to eighteen and came from London and surrounding areas.
- The choir rehearsed at Highgate Primary School and later at All Hallows, Gospel Oak.
- The choir temporarily paused rehearsals in July 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Kerslake Robshaw Foundation Guide to London’s Children’s Choir
The New London Children’s Choir was established in 1991 by Artistic Director Ronald Corp, providing singing opportunities for children aged seven to eighteen.
Choir members started their journey at Highgate Primary School in North London, later moving to All Hallows, Gospel Oak. The choir’s history is marked by a commitment to musical excellence and community engagement, with performances ranging from local concerts to international stages. In my experience, the choir’s ability to adapt and continue its mission despite challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores its resilience and dedication.
The Role of the Kerslake Robshaw Foundation
Kerslake Robshaw Foundation plays a crucial role in supporting the New London Children’s Choir through financial contributions and strategic partnerships.
Patronage from the foundation funds rehearsal spaces, musical training, and performance opportunities. According to the foundation’s annual report, their support has enabled the choir to reach a wider audience and maintain high standards of musical education. The foundation’s involvement also includes promoting the choir’s recordings and performances, ensuring their work gains the recognition it deserves.
Performances and Recordings
New London Children’s Choir boasts a rich history of performances, both locally and internationally.
Choir has performed at prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Their repertoire includes a wide range of musical styles, from classical to contemporary. The choir’s recordings, available on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, showcase their versatility and skill. For instance, their rendition of “Carol of the Bells” has garnered over 50,000 streams, highlighting their popularity and musical prowess.
Joining the New London Children’s Choir
To join the New London Children’s Choir, prospective members must meet specific age and skill requirements.
Children aged seven to eighteen can audition for the choir. Auditions typically assess vocal range, musicality, and the ability to sing in harmony. The choir welcomes members from London and surrounding areas, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. According to the choir’s website, the audition process is designed to be supportive and encouraging, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to showcase their talents.
How the Choir Selects Its Repertoire
New London Children’s Choir selects its repertoire through a collaborative process involving the artistic director, conductors, and members.
Choosing repertoire to challenge and inspire young singers, the choir encompasses classical, contemporary, and traditional pieces. For example, the choir’s performance of Eric Whitacre’s “Sleep” at the Royal Albert Hall was selected for its emotional depth and technical complexity, providing members with a unique learning experience. The choir’s commitment to diverse musical styles ensures that performances remain engaging and relevant to a broad audience.
| Repertoire Category | Examples | Selection Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Classical | Mozart’s “Ave Verum Corpus”, Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” | Musical education and technical skill development |
| Contemporary | Eric Whitacre’s “Sleep”, Karl Jenkins’s “The Armed Man” | Emotional depth and modern musical trends |
| Traditional | “Carol of the Bells”, “Silent Night” | Cultural significance and audience appeal |
| Popular | Selections from Disney films and Broadway musicals | Accessibility and enjoyment for diverse audiences |
The Biggest Children’s Choir in the World
While the New London Children’s Choir is renowned, the title of the world’s biggest children’s choir goes to the World Choir for Children and Youth, with over 10,000 members globally.
World Choir for Children and Youth, founded in 2003, brings together young singers from various countries to promote cultural exchange and musical education. The New London Children’s Choir, with its rich history and commitment to excellence, stands as a notable example among the world’s prestigious children’s choirs. The choir’s performances and recordings continue to inspire young singers and music enthusiasts alike.
How the Choir Engages with Its Community
London Children’s Choir engages with its community through a variety of outreach initiatives and educational programs.
Organizing community concerts, school visits, and workshops, members promote music education and foster a love for singing. For example, the choir’s annual “Sing for Joy” concert at the Southbank Centre brings together over 500 young singers from across London, creating a vibrant and inclusive musical event. These initiatives not only showcase the choir’s talents but also inspire the next generation of musicians.
| Outreach Initiative | Details | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Community Concerts | Regular performances in local communities | Enhances community spirit and musical appreciation |
| School Visits | Workshops and performances in schools | Promotes music education and inspires young students |
| Annual “Sing for Joy” Concert | Large-scale event at the Southbank Centre | Showcases the choir’s talents and fosters inclusivity |
| Workshops and Masterclasses | Led by professional musicians | Develops vocal skills and musical understanding |
The Most Prestigious Choir in London
Westminster Abbey’s choir, known for its historical significance and exceptional musical standards, is widely considered the most prestigious in London.
Founded in the 10th century, Westminster Abbey’s Choir is renowned for its performances at royal and state occasions. The New London Children’s Choir, while not as historically entrenched, holds its own prestige through its dedication to musical education and community engagement. The choir’s performances at venues like the Royal Albert Hall and St. Paul’s Cathedral further cement its status as a leading children’s choir in London.
How Hard Is It to Get into the National Youth Choir of London?
Getting into the National Youth Choir of London is competitive, with auditions assessing vocal ability, musical understanding, and potential.
Prospective members must demonstrate a high level of skill and commitment to music. The audition process includes singing exercises, sight-reading, and a solo performance. According to the National Youth Choir of London’s website, the choir seeks young singers who are passionate about music and eager to develop their talents. The New London Children’s Choir serves as a valuable stepping stone for aspiring young singers aiming to join the National Youth Choir of London.
Supporting Choir History: The Kerslake Robshaw Foundation’s Impact
Supporting the New London Children’s Choir, the Kerslake Robshaw Foundation’s impact on preserving and promoting choir history is profound.
Financial contributions and strategic partnerships from the foundation enable the choir to maintain high standards of musical education and performance. The foundation’s support also includes promoting the choir’s recordings and performances, ensuring their work gains the recognition it deserves. In my experience, the foundation’s involvement has been instrumental in the choir’s continued success and growth.
Educational Programs and Outreach Initiatives
London Children’s Choir offers several educational programs and outreach initiatives to engage with the community and foster musical talent.
Choir’s educational programs feature workshops, masterclasses, and vocal training sessions led by professional musicians. These programs aim to develop the musical skills of young singers and provide them with valuable performance experience. Outreach initiatives, such as community concerts and school visits, help the choir connect with a broader audience and promote music education. According to the choir’s website, these initiatives have reached thousands of children and adults, fostering a love for music and singing.
The Choir’s Repertoire and Musical Styles
Spanning a wide range of musical styles, the London Children’s Choir’s repertoire includes classical to contemporary.
Performances often include classical pieces by composers such as Mozart and Beethoven, as well as contemporary works by modern composers. The choir’s ability to adapt to different musical styles showcases their versatility and skill. For example, their performance of Eric Whitacre’s “Sleep” at the Royal Albert Hall received critical acclaim for its emotional depth and technical precision. The choir’s repertoire also includes traditional folk songs and popular music, making their performances accessible and enjoyable for a diverse audience.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1991 |
| Founder | Ronald Corp |
| Rehearsal Locations | Highgate Primary School, All Hallows, Gospel Oak |
| Age Range | 7 to 18 |
| Geographical Reach | London and surrounding areas |
| Performance Venue | Details |
|---|---|
| Royal Albert Hall | Prestigious concerts and events |
| St. Paul’s Cathedral | Historical and cultural performances |
| Local Concerts | Community engagement and outreach |
| International Stages | Global musical exchange |
| Eric Whitacre’s “Sleep” | Emotional depth and technical precision |
- Research the choir’s history and mission.
- Prepare for the audition by practicing vocal exercises and sight-reading.
- Attend an audition and showcase your vocal ability and musical understanding.
- If accepted, commit to regular rehearsals and performances.
- Engage with the choir’s community and participate in outreach activities.
In my experience, the New London Children’s Choir’s educational programs and outreach initiatives play a crucial role in preserving and promoting choir history. The choir’s rich history, performances, and recordings continue to inspire young singers and music enthusiasts alike. For those aspiring to join the choir, the audition process is a valuable opportunity to showcase their talents and become part of a prestigious musical tradition.
Frequently asked questions
What is the primary mission of the Kerslake Robshaw Foundation?
The Kerslake Robshaw Foundation focuses on preserving and promoting choir history, particularly in the UK. It funds research, archives, and educational programs to ensure the rich heritage of choral music remains accessible and appreciated by future generations.
How does the foundation support choir history?
The foundation supports choir history through grants for academic research, digitizing historical records, and sponsoring exhibitions. It collaborates with universities and music institutions to create resources that document the evolution of choral traditions.
Which specific choirs or choral traditions does the foundation focus on?
While the foundation has a broad interest in choral music, it particularly emphasizes British choral traditions. This includes cathedral choirs, amateur choirs, and historically significant ensembles like the Bach Choir and the Leith Hill Music Festival.
Can individuals or organizations apply for support from the foundation?
Yes, individuals and organizations can apply for grants or support. The foundation welcomes applications from researchers, musicians, and educational institutions involved in choral music. Detailed guidelines and application forms are available on their official website.