The Choir takes its name from the ancient kingdom of Wessex, this is reflected in the Choir logo which features the Wyvern from the flag of Wessex. Our recent 'makeover' has seen us change our name to 'The Wessex' - by which we have been known for many years. The update to our logo reflects the fun loving persona of the choir and creates a modern, forward thinking image. We are ambassadors for son
g, inviting and encouraging men of all ages to discover the joy, health benefits, and social inclusive pastime of singing together. We run outreach projects with schools and colleges, support local causes and national charities, and we have a jolly good time while we're doing it! We're a registered charity and a highly collaborative organization - we'd like to hear from you if you think we can work together! WMC was formed in September 2001 by Robert Elliott, who stepped down as Musical Director in December 2013 after 12 inspirational years. During Rob’s tenure the Choir was awarded a remarkable 20 trophies in choral competitions, culminating in victory in the Male Choir category at the International Eisteddfod in Llangollen in 2011. Rob was succeeded by Katrine Reimers in January 2014, and under her direction we cemented our position as one of the most accomplished male choirs in the UK, winning the Male Choir categories at both the Mid-Somerset Choral Festival and the Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts in 2016. In addition we were awarded the Cheltenham Gold Cup for the most outstanding choir in the whole festival for the third time, with a remarkable competition score of 93. Katrine left us for an exciting new project in July 2016 and we are delighted to have the highly experienced and talented Rhiannon Williams-Hale leading us on the next stage of our musical journey. Rhiannon has herself led a choir to victory in the most prestigious male choir competition in the UK. In late 2019 Rhiannon left us for pastures new and our then principal accompanist Tom Graff, became our Musical Director. Tom is a Fellow of the Royal School of Music and a phenomenal musician and has taken on the new role with great enthusiasm. He is supported by our principal accompanist Christine Williams. Wessex Male Choir has performed in Wales, Jersey, Spain, Ireland and Italy, in addition to regular appearances in England, and in venues such as: Central Hall Westminster; Llandaff, Southwark, Westminster, Waterford and St Asaph’s Cathedrals; Twickenham and Wembley stadiums and the Eden Project. We rehearse every Tuesday evening during term time, 7:30 - 9:30pm at the Church of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads, Swindon (SN25 4YX), and if you think you might enjoy being part of this brilliant team, then we would be delighted to see you on any Tuesday evening, with no obligation. Previous choral experience is not essential and many choristers do not read music. We also run a number of singing projects and outreach events each year. See our website for further details.
