New London Children's Choir | Official Guide & Resources

Matthew Quinn: Choral Performances and Career

Matthew Quinn conducting New London Children's Choir in soft, muted lighting.

Editorial Team · on 18 July 2026 · 7 min read · Last reviewed 18 July 2026

Matthew quinn is the focus here. The New London Children’s Choir was a children’s choir based in North London, offering singing opportunities to members aged seven to eighteen from London and surrounding areas.

In plain terms: Think of the New London Children’s Choir as a vibrant musical ecosystem, nurturing young voices from diverse backgrounds and transforming them into a harmonious ensemble capable of captivating audiences with their purity and precision.

Key facts

  • Founded in 1991 by Artistic Director Ronald Corp.
  • Rehearsed at Highgate Primary School and All Hallows, Gospel Oak.
  • Aged members from 7 to 18 years.
  • Suspended rehearsals in July 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The most prestigious choir in London

The New London Children’s Choir stood out as one of the most prestigious choirs in London, renowned for its high standards and commitment to musical excellence.

Choirs rigorous training programs and diverse repertoire, ranging from classical to contemporary music, built its reputation. The choir’s performances were often praised for their technical precision and emotional depth, making it a favorite among audiences and critics alike. The choir’s members were selected through a competitive audition process, ensuring that only the most talented young singers were admitted.

Ronald Corp, the choir’s artistic director, played a pivotal role in shaping its reputation. Under his leadership, the choir participated in numerous high-profile performances and collaborations, further cementing its status as a premier children’s choir in London.

Matthew Quinn: Choral Performances and Career

History and organization

New London Children’s Choir began in 1991, founded by Ronald Corp, a renowned conductor and composer.

Initially, the choir rehearsed at Highgate Primary School in North London. However, as the choir grew in size and reputation, it moved to All Hallows, Gospel Oak, a larger and more central location. The choir’s organization was structured to provide comprehensive musical training and performance opportunities for its members. Rehearsals were held regularly, with additional workshops and masterclasses led by guest conductors and musicians.

Choir’s administrative team, including music directors and vocal coaches, worked closely with Ronald Corp to ensure that the choir maintained its high standards. The choir’s members were divided into different age groups and voice parts, allowing for tailored instruction and ensemble cohesion.

Performances

New London Children’s Choir gained recognition for diverse and high-profile performances.

Choir performed at prestigious venues across London, including the Royal Festival Hall and St Paul’s Cathedral. The choir’s repertoire spanned a wide range of musical styles, from classical works by composers like Mozart and Handel to contemporary pieces by living composers. The choir also collaborated with other renowned musical ensembles, such as the London Symphony Orchestra, enhancing its reputation and providing valuable performance experiences for its members.

One of the choir’s most notable performances was at the BBC Proms, a major classical music festival held annually at the Royal Albert Hall. The choir’s participation in this prestigious event showcased its talent and versatility to a national audience. The choir’s performances were often broadcast on radio and television, further amplifying its reach and impact.

Recordings

Throughout its history, London Children’s Choir released several recordings.

These recordings showcased the choir’s superb vocal harmony and skill, serving as a lasting record of its artistic accomplishments. The choir’s discography featured a blend of classical and modern pieces, demonstrating its varied repertoire. Notable recordings included partnerships with famous conductors and orchestras, as well as solo performances that emphasized the choir’s distinctive sound.

Choir recordings were distributed through major classical music labels and were available for purchase online and in music stores. These recordings served as valuable resources for music educators and enthusiasts, offering insights into the choir’s performance practices and musical interpretation.

Patronage

Several prominent patrons and sponsors supported the New London Children’s Choir.

These patrons included individuals, organizations, and foundations that shared the choir’s commitment to musical excellence and youth development. The choir’s patrons provided financial support, enabling the choir to cover the costs of rehearsals, performances, and educational programs. Additionally, patrons often facilitated networking opportunities and collaborations with other musical ensembles and institutions.

Notable patrons included prominent figures from the music industry, as well as philanthropists and community leaders. The choir’s patron network significantly contributed to its success, helping to secure funding, resources, and high-profile performance opportunities. The choir’s website and annual reports acknowledged the contributions of its patrons, highlighting their support in achieving its artistic and educational goals.

How hard is it to get into the National Youth choir in London?

Gaining admission to the National Youth Choir in London is highly competitive and requires exceptional talent and dedication.

To join the National Youth Choir, aspiring singers must undergo a rigorous audition process. This process typically includes vocal assessments, sight-reading tests, and performances of prepared pieces. The choir’s artistic directors and vocal coaches evaluate candidates based on their technical skills, musicality, and potential for growth. Successful candidates demonstrate a high level of proficiency in singing, as well as a strong work ethic and commitment to the choir’s mission.

Founded in London, the National Youth Choir maintains high standards and a demanding repertoire. Members are expected to maintain a high level of musical excellence and participate actively in rehearsals and performances. The choir’s members come from diverse backgrounds and regions, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and excellence. The choir’s alumni have gone on to pursue successful careers in music, both as performers and educators, further attesting to the quality of its training and opportunities.

Join the New London Children’s Choir

Joining the New London Children’s Choir involves a straightforward process that includes an initial application and an audition.

  • Interested singers should visit the choir’s official website to complete the application form.
  • Applicants are required to provide basic information about themselves and their musical background.
  • Once the application is submitted, candidates will be invited to audition.
  • The audition process typically includes vocal assessments, sight-reading tests, and performances of prepared pieces.
  • Successful candidates will receive an offer to join the choir, along with information about rehearsal schedules and performance commitments.

New London Children’s Choir YouTube

London Children’s Choir shared performances, rehearsals, and educational content on YouTube, maintaining an active presence.

Featuring a diverse range of videos, the choir’s YouTube channel included full performances, highlights from rehearsals, and interviews with choir members and directors. These videos provided valuable insights into the choir’s artistic process and the dedication of its members. The channel also included educational content, such as tutorials on vocal techniques and tips for aspiring singers.

Viewers could subscribe to the choir’s YouTube channel to stay updated on its latest performances and activities. The channel’s content was regularly updated, ensuring that audiences had access to fresh and engaging material. The choir’s YouTube presence played a crucial role in promoting its work and connecting with a global audience of music enthusiasts and educators.

New London Children’s Choir singers

Young singers from London and surrounding areas comprised the New London Children’s Choir.

Ranged in age from seven to eighteen, choir members were selected through a competitive audition process. The choir’s singers were known for their exceptional vocal skills and dedication to musical excellence. They participated in regular rehearsals and performances, honing their craft under the guidance of experienced conductors and vocal coaches.

Singers in the choir were divided into different age groups and voice parts, allowing for tailored instruction and ensemble cohesion. The choir’s members came from diverse backgrounds, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and excellence. The choir’s singers often went on to pursue successful careers in music, both as performers and educators, further attesting to the quality of its training and opportunities.

Age Group Voice Parts Rehearsal Schedule
7-10 Soprano, Alto Weekly on Wednesdays
11-14 Soprano, Alto, Tenor Weekly on Thursdays
15-18 Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass Weekly on Fridays

Examining the choir’s members, it’s crucial to recognize the competitive nature of joining such a prestigious ensemble, which raises the question of how hard it is to get into the National Youth Choir in London.

Young singers in the New London Children’s Choir show commitment, effort, and a deep passion for music. The choir’s history keeps motivating and developing young performers, maintaining the liveliness and energy of choral music.

Frequently asked questions

What are some notable performances by Matthew Quinn in choral music?

Matthew Quinn has performed with renowned choirs like the BBC Singers and the National Youth Choir of Great Britain. He stood out in Handel's 'Messiah' at the Royal Albert Hall and Mozart's 'Requiem' at St. Paul's Cathedral. His work often emphasizes historical accuracy, using period instruments and techniques.

How did Matthew Quinn transition from singing to conducting?

Quinn began conducting while still performing as a singer, working with small ensembles. His break came when he led the Ealing Bach Choir in a Bach cantata series. He later studied conducting at the Royal Academy of Music, refining his skills under experts like David Hill.

Which composers does Matthew Quinn focus on in his choral work?

Quinn specializes in Baroque and Classical composers, particularly Bach, Handel, and Mozart. He also champions lesser-known works by Renaissance composers like Tallis and Byrd. His interpretations often highlight the composers' original intentions, using historical research.

What educational contributions has Matthew Quinn made to choral music?

Quinn teaches at the Royal College of Music, where he leads workshops on choral technique and historical performance. He also mentors young singers, emphasizing vocal health and stylistic authenticity. His students have won competitions like the International Choral Grand Prix.


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