EMVC History

The Choir was founded in October 1983 by Sam Simons - now our Life President - with Nigel Brooks, the notable composer, arranger and broadcaster as our first Musical Director. Nigel was succeeded by Martin Stuart in 1988.

Early rehearsals (with about 6 initial respondees to an advert placed by Sam in the local Epsom paper) took place at the Rosebery Girls’ School in Epsom.   Others soon joined and after a few months one of the members negotiated with the landlord of the Rising Sun  in Heathcote Road for regular Wednesday night practices at the pub.  A later move to rehearsals at the United Reformed Church Hall in Ewell resulted from growing numbers and the Hall has been our home since.

Neil MacKay has been MD since 1995.  Under his direction, membership has steadily increased (currently to just under 60) and our repertoire has extended to nearly 250 pieces.

Since Autumn 2009, when Neil took a sabbatical for few months, and we have been delighted to welcome Juliet Hornby as our Deputy MD.   Juliet conducted the Choir very successfully in our 2010 Annual Concert at the Epsom Playhouse, and will continue to work with Choir in support to Neil.

A page of historic Choir photos can be found here.

Milestone performances are listed on the “Performances” page. In addition to concerts, the Choir undertakes civic duties in Epsom & Ewell, participates in massed male voice concerts and supports the Royal Marsden Hospital in its “Celebration of Life” service at Christmas.

In 2004, the Choir made its first visit to Epsom’s twin town, Chantilly in France. We were warmly welcomed by the townspeople and gave 4 concerts. We have since visited Chantilly in 2006 and 2008 and look forward to future occasions.
  

© Epsom Male Voice Choir