“The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir, conducted by Dinis Sousa, gave a rousing performance. The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir really shone. Their quiet entrance with Gospodi pomiluj was breathtaking; their full outbursts in the Veruju (Credo) movement filled the Philharmonic Hall with glorious sound. They sounded completely at ease with Janáček’s idiom and appeared to have no difficulty singing in this unfamiliar language.” - Bachtrack ****, Janáček’s Glagolitic Mass, April 2025

“The Philharmonic Choir and Youth Choir sang with dazzling brightness and total conviction from the first bars. The words “Liebe nur Gott” were some of the most utterly joyful singing one could hope for.” - Bachtrack *****, Mahler Symphony No.3, March 2025

"No watch-checking was required in the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra’s heartfelt performance with the sopranos and altos of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir and the Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Choir, under the baton of their charismatic chief conductor, Domingo Hindoyan. Atmosphere and detail shone out, ebbing and flowing through the six movements, from rustic dance to Nietzschean nocturne.” - The Observer ****, Mahler Symphony No.3, March 2025

Matthew Hamilton Director of Choirs and Singing
Louise Madden Choral Manager
Jenny Rust Vocal Coach
Eve Taylor Accompanist

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir: A Taster Rehearsal
Monday 19 May, 6.30-9pm  
The Friary, Bute Street, Liverpool, L3 3BX

Since 1840, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir has been at the heart of our city’s cultural life. From choral masterpieces to Christmas classics, every season the Choir boasts an impressive schedule of concerts, often taking to the stage alongside the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and internationally acclaimed soloists. A dedicated and experienced group of amateur singers, they perform regularly here at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, in venues around the UK, and on recordings and radio broadcasts. The Choir delivers some of the greatest works ever composed, showcasing the beauty, power and versatility of the human voice.

And the best bit? They’re recruiting new members… 

If you’re interested in joining the Choir but would like to know what it’s like before auditioning, here’s your chance to try it out! 

On Monday 19 May, we’re throwing open the doors to a rehearsal and giving you the chance to experience what being in our Choir is all about. As we prepare to perform Verdi’s epic Requiem, you’ll be taking part in the rehearsal and joining your voice to the 100 members who make up the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir. 

We know you’ll love the whole experience – so there’ll be lots of information about how you can do it all again! Our team will be available for questions about the audition process and rehearsal schedules for the 2025/26 Season.

Scores will be provided.

If you’d like to come along, just fill in the form below – we can’t wait to see you there!

RLPC: Taster Rehearsal – Expression of Interest Form

About the Choir
The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir is an auditioned adult symphony chorus based in the heart of Liverpool. Comprising over 100 singers from across the Northwest region, the Choir is a welcoming group who volunteer their time to bring the highest standard of symphonic choral music to audiences in Liverpool and beyond. 

The Choir was founded in 1840, in parallel with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, with the aim of complementing the Orchestra in performances across the nation. Today, the Choir still regularly performs with the Orchestra in their home venue, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, as well as venues outside Liverpool. 

The Choir was led by Chorusmaster Ian Tracey for 38 years prior to his retirement in 2023, whereupon Matthew Hamilton became the Director of Choirs and Singing. Led by Matthew, the Choir boasts an impressive schedule of concerts every season, featuring regular works such as the traditional annual performance of Handel’s Messiah and Liverpool Philharmonic’s Spirit of Christmas concerts, together with other staples of the choral repertoire. Performing alongside internationally renowned conductors and soloists, highlights of the 2024/25 season include Walton’s Belshazzar’s Feast with Sir Bryn Terfel, Janáček’s Glagolitic Mass conducted by Dinis Sousa, and a season finale of Verdi’s Requiem under the baton of the Orchestra’s Chief Conductor, Domingo Hindoyan. 

Although maintaining an amateur status, the Choir strives for high professional standards which has led to frequent recordings and broadcasts. Recent recordings have included Vaughan Williams’ A Sea Symphony and Elgar’s The Music Makers (on the Onyx Classics label), as well as a video stream of Beethoven’s Symphony No.9 as part of Domingo Hindoyan’s inaugural concert as Chief Conductor. The Choir’s upcoming performance of Janáček’s Glagolitic Mass will be broadcast on BBC Radio 3.   

The Choir has appeared in performances outside of Liverpool, including the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall and has toured in Spain, France, Germany and the Netherlands.  

The Choir is managed by dedicated Liverpool Philharmonic staff and supported by a Consultation Group of Choir members, who represent all aspects of membership and are active in discussions with Artistic staff and management. Opportunities to join the Consultation Group are available to all Choir members.  

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir looks forward to welcoming audiences from near and far to share their 2024/25 season. 

Come and sing with us!
The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir is a friendly group of singers whose day jobs range from students to doctors to teachers and more. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and voice types. 

The Choir rehearses every Monday evening during term time, with additional rehearsals in the lead up to concerts. Regular rehearsals take place at The Friary, Fox Street, L3 3BQ. This venue is just a few minutes’ walk from Lime Street station and has a free car park. 

Membership of the Choir offers activities in addition to rehearsals and concerts, including workshops and individual/group vocal coaching.  

Applications are processed throughout the year and auditions are held across the season. Once you have completed an application form, a member of Choir management will be in touch regarding an audition date.  

Please see the FAQs for additional information.