Oxford Bach Choir

The Oxford Bach Choir is an amateur choir based in Oxford, England. Founded by Basil Harwood in 1896 to further the music of J.S. Bach in Oxford, the Choir merged in 1905 with the Oxford Choral & Philharmonic Society, whose origins can be traced back to 1819. Oxford Bach Choir therefore has a choral tradition which extends back almost two centuries. The Choir performs in the Sheldonian Theatre (designed by Sir Christopher Wren) in central Oxford.

The Oxford Bach Choir is a large mixed-voice choir, with around 160 members. The range of music covered is diverse, from the works of Bach and the classical repertoire to contemporary works. Oxford Bach Choir has always had a mix of town and gown singers. Rehearsals and concerts are scheduled so that students, academics and professionals are all able to participate in the Choir's programmes. The Choir enjoys good relationships both with Oxford colleges and with businesses in the city. New members, drawn from throughout Oxfordshire, are encouraged at the start of every season.

Oxford Bach Choir gives at least four concerts every season at the end of each academic term, in December, March and June, occasions that attract audiences of around 800 people. For the main programmes in December and March the Choir is accompanied by top professional orchestras, such as the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the London Mozart Players and the Britten Sinfonia, and sings under the conductorship of Nicholas Cleobury, who is a champion of new musichaving given over a hundred premieres. In June and at Christmas, the Choir performs under the baton of its Associate Conductor, Timothy Byram-Wigfield, who is Director of Music at St George's Chapel, Windsor, with a career as an organist, pianist and singer.

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