Mansfield Choir Sets Off on South Tour ,Romsey 2026

Key Points

• Mansfield Choral Union, a prominent choir from Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, announces a concert tour heading south to London and surrounding areas in 2026.
• The tour features multiple performances, including key venues in the capital, showcasing classical and choral repertoire.
• Choir director highlights the significance of performing outside the Midlands for the first time in years.
• Rehearsals intensify ahead of the tour, with over 50 members participating.
• Tickets go on sale soon via the choir’s website and local outlets.
• Tour itinerary includes specific dates in spring 2026, starting late March.
• Event organised in partnership with southern promoters to expand audience reach.
• No changes to the choir’s regular Mansfield schedule; tour is additional.

Romsey (Cambridge Tribune) April 13, 2026 -From Mansfield in Nottinghamshire, the Mansfield Choral Union has revealed plans for a major concert tour heading south to London and other venues in 2026. The announcement, covered extensively by local media, marks a significant outing for the choir, which boasts a long history in the Nottinghamshire music scene. As reported by Sarah Clifford of CHAD (chad.co.uk), the tour will feature performances of popular choral works, drawing members from across the region.

The choir, known for its community performances and annual concerts in Mansfield, will travel southwards starting in late March 2026. Details emerged from a press release issued by the choir’s committee, emphasising the logistical preparations underway.

Which venues will the Mansfield Choral Union perform at during the tour?

Key stops include prominent London halls, with the itinerary listing St. John’s Smith Square on March 28, 2026, followed by Cadogan Hall on April 4. As detailed by Sarah Clifford of CHAD, additional performances are scheduled in Surrey and Kent, including a matinee at the Assembly Hall in Worthing on April 11. The full schedule accommodates travel from the Midlands, with overnight stays arranged for singers.

Choir spokesperson, David Hargreaves, stated to CHAD: “This tour represents a milestone, allowing our members to share our passion with southern audiences.” No other media outlets have yet confirmed identical venue lists, but the choir’s official site aligns with these details.

When does the Mansfield choir’s southbound tour begin and what is the repertoire?

The tour kicks off with a rehearsal showcase in Mansfield on March 21, 2026, before the first public concert south of the Thames. Repertoire includes works by Handel, Elgar, and contemporary composers, selected for broad appeal. Sarah Clifford of CHAD reported that conductor Helen McIntyre commented:

“Our programme blends timeless classics with fresh arrangements to engage diverse crowds.”

Over 50 singers, aged 18 to 80, form the core ensemble. Preparations involve weekly sessions at Mansfield’s Brunts Academy, intensifying from January 2026.

How can audiences buy tickets for the Mansfield Choral Union’s 2026 tour?

Tickets become available from January 15, 2026, priced at £25-£35, through the choir’s website (mansfieldchoralunion.org.uk) and Ticketmaster outlets. Group discounts apply for schools and clubs. As per CHAD’s coverage by Sarah Clifford, early booking is advised due to limited capacity, especially for London dates.

The choir encourages southern supporters to follow updates via social media handles @MansfieldChoral.

Why is this tour significant for the Mansfield Choral Union?

Musical director Helen McIntyre told CHAD:

“Performing south exposes us to new influences and collaborations.”

event stems from invitations by London promoters, building on the choir’s 75-year legacy since 1951. No prior southern tours have occurred since 2012, per archival notes in the CHAD article.

Local Mansfield councillor Jane Carter welcomed the news, stating: “It showcases our town’s talent nationally.”

Who are the key figures behind the Mansfield choir’s organisation?

Leadership includes chair David Hargreaves, with 20 years’ service, and accompanist Peter Lawson. Helen McIntyre, appointed in 2020, directs the tour. Sarah Clifford of CHAD profiled their roles, noting the committee’s fundraising efforts covered 70% of costs via grants from Mansfield District Council.

Membership remains open, with auditions planned post-tour.

What preparations is the Mansfield Choral Union making for the southern concerts?

Rehearsals ramp up with guest coaches from the Royal Academy of Music. Travel uses chartered coaches from Nottinghamshire, ensuring comfort for the group. CHAD reported on sponsorship from local firms like Mansfield Building Society, funding attire and publicity.

Safety protocols follow post-pandemic guidelines, with COVID tests optional.

How does this tour fit into the choir’s annual calendar?

The southern jaunt slots between Mansfield’s Christmas concert and summer festival, avoiding clashes. It adds four extra performances to the usual 12 annual events. As outlined by Sarah Clifford in CHAD, this expansion aids retention amid rising costs.

Audience feedback from past tours influenced the repertoire choice.

Are there any partnerships involved in the Mansfield choir’s 2026 tour?

Collaborations feature southern choirs for joint pieces at select venues. Promoters from the Southbank Centre assist logistics. David Hargreaves noted to CHAD:

“These links could lead to reciprocal visits.”