The Choir

The choir was formed by a group of sixteen enthusiasts in February 1985. Several of the founder members still sing with the choir, which is now 40 strong.  Members come not only from Dalston, but also from Carlisle and a wide surrounding area.  The choir rehearses in Dalston Methodist Church.

The choir’s strong development since its formation is due in no small part to the skilled and energetic guidance of its Director, Hilary Hodgson.

The objects of the choir under its constitution are “to advance the appreciation of male voice singing…by the presentation of public concerts…to give pleasure to others and to help charitable causes.”

The choir now gives about 8 concerts each year to support causes such as church funds, NSPCC, Macmillan Nurses, Eden Valley Hospice, WI, Women’s Guild, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Overseas Aid Trust, Crossroads, Cancer Funds, Christian Aid Tear Fund, Rotary International Charities and the Jubilee Sailing Trust.

Concerts are given largely in Cumbria, but performances have also been held in Northumberland and Dumfriesshire.  Further afield, the choir has sung with the World Choir at Cardiff Arms Park (8,000 male voices!) and in Atlanta, USA.  In 2000, the choir took part in the Massed Male Voice Millenium Extravaganza in Manchester; and the Cumbria Massed Male Voice Choir Millenium Celebration Concert in Whitehaven.

The choir has given opportunities to many young up and coming musicians in the county by inviting them to appear as guest artists at concerts.  This has given them encouragement and the experience of performing to audiences, as well as giving those audiences – and the choir – much pleasure.

The choir has produced three recordings.  The first on audio cassette in 1994 was sold out some time ago.  Just a few copies are left of the second recording on CD made in 1999.  Our current recording (made in 2006) is entitled Ain’t Misbehavin – see CD & Booklet Page.

Musical Director: Hilary Hodgson

Accompanist: Lorraine Gash

Choir Members