About us
Established sixty years ago to help raise funds for the York Minster appeal, the Chapter House Choir has grown to be recognised as one of the leading chamber choirs in the North of England. Our ensemble is known for its polished and engaging performances.
Musical approach and repertoire
We pride ourselves on presenting accessible, beautiful, exciting and diverse musical programmes that draw from the full expanse of choral compositions. Our commitment to artistic excellence means we regularly commission new pieces, collaborating both with emerging local composers and internationally celebrated names. Uniquely, our choir also includes a handbell group that performs annually.
Find out about our commissions
Read about our concerts in this special year
Our passion
Passion for choral music drives our performances, and we invite audiences to share in our enthusiasm for this remarkable repertoire. We are also keen for younger generations to be inspired, and as such established the Chapter House Youth Choir in 2016 and offer annual choral scholarships for our adult choir.
Collaboration
We regularly collaborate with a range of choirs and musical groups, both local and distant. This year, we joined with the distinguished Jervaulx Singers together with our Youth Choir for our October concert of remembrance. In early 2026 we will head to Ely Cathedral to sing the acclaimed War Requiem by Benjamin Britten, joining forces with Cambridgeshire group, the Fairhaven Singers. And for our gala concert, we will be inviting former members back into the fold.
Musical leadership
In the past sixty years, we have had several inspiring musical directors. Founded by Andrew Carter, who led until 1982, the choir has been directed by Benjamin Morris, Assistant Director of Music at York Minster, since 2017. Though we no longer rehearse in the Chapter House, we remain closely connected with the Minster as an associate choir and host the annual, sold-out Carols by Candlelight concert in the Nave.
Benjamin Morris History of the choir
