Halifax Choral Society

Halifax Choral Society

Halifax Choral Society. Choir founded in 1922 as the Halifax Choral Union by Ifan Williams in association with the Halifax Cons (Maritime Conservatory of Music). Williams was succeeded as conductor by Leonard Mayoh in 1951 (when the later name was adopted), and Mayoh by Charles Underwood in 1959. The society ceased activity in 1960. Originally 150, later between 80 and 100 voices, the choir gave two or three concerts each year, singing unaccompanied or with the Halifax Symphony Orchestra. The society performed Messiah nearly every year in Halifax, and on several occasions in nearby towns. Other works included The Christmas Oratorio, Judas Maccabeus, The Creation, Elijah, the Fauré Requiem, Edward German's Tom Jones, and, at the final concert, the Mozart Requiem. Guest soloists included Gordon Clinton, Audrey Farnell, Sheila Piercey (a former member of the HCS), Jan Rubes, Jan Simons, and Margaret Stilwell.