National Symphony Chorus

The National Symphony Chorus (formerly RTÉ Philharmonic Choir) was formed in January 1985 by RTÉ’s choral director Colin Mawby and has been at the heart of Ireland’s choral music scene ever since.

In the capable hands of its subsequent chorus directors Mark Duley (1996-2011), Mark Hindley (2012-2018) and David Young (2019- present) - the Chorus has gone from strength to strength, firmly establishing itself as Ireland’s leading symphonic choral ensemble with a highly impressive repertoire well in excess of a hundred pieces.

Following their transfer from RTÉ in January 2022, the Chorus forms part of the National Concert Hall’s family of choirs, with Cór Linn youth choir and Cór na nÓg children’s choir.

The Chorus prepares, performs and broadcasts at least six large-scale orchestral choral works each season (September to June) alongside the National Symphony Orchestra and internationally acclaimed conductors and soloists, with occasional recordings and stand-alone concerts. Two trips to sing in St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh during the 2018 and 2019 Festival were very well received, and the Chorus has recorded for RTÉ and Naxos.

Rehearsals take place in the NCH on Wednesday evenings during the concert season and include sectional and small group sessions with vocal coaches such as Anthony Norton, working with David on choral technique and sound.

It’s 160 dedicated amateur singers span all ages and backgrounds with some travelling from as far away as Cork, Louth, Meath, Roscommon, Tipperary, Wicklow and Wexford to take part. There is a great sense of community and support, with the opportunity to learn and make great music together providing an uplifting and joyous experience all- round.