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Founded in 1929 when two local societies, Hull Harmonic Society and Hull Vocal Society both established in the mid-1800s amalgamated, Hull Choral Union (HCU) has continued their tradition of enriching the musical life of the city.
The Hull Choral Union continues the tradition of performing an ever-extending repertoire from the great classical oratorios to contemporary works. Membership stands at over one hundred mixed voices and we are always pleased to welcome new members.
A Hull Choral Union season typically consists of an autumn and a spring concert, with a Christmas performance of Handel's Messiah and a Family Carol Concert. All these concerts take place in the magnificent Hull City Hall whose acoustics are considered amongst the best in the north of England. The choir has also made recordings, has broadcast with the BBC and has performed in other venues in England and abroad. Hull Choral Union has commissioned works to perform. In 1981 the choir premiered 'Bridge for the Living' a setting by Anthony Hedges of Philip Larkin's poem. The work was commissioned by the Hull Choral Union to celebrate the opening of the Humber Bridge.
The Hull Choral Union is fortunate to have its own orchestra of local and regional musicians but on occasion sings with professional orchestras including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and the Hallé. The society continues to work with international soloists and conductors and is particularly keen to attract singers at the beginning of their careers.
Hull Choral Union works in partnership with Kingston upon Hull City Council and enjoys the support of patrons, individual and corporate sponsors.