About

With over 200 singers from government departments and agencies, the Civil Service Choir has grown into an extraordinary musical force, recognised for its energy, ambition and excellence.

A choir with a big impact

Whether performing major choral works, intimate a cappella pieces, or uplifting music for corporate and charity events, our choir brings passion and professionalism to every stage. We have appeared in over 200 performances, sharing music that inspires and moves audiences.

Our regular performance venues are Smith Square Hall and St Stephen’s, Rochester Row, but we have performed in many other venues including Westminster Abbey, 10 Downing Street, Buckingham Palace, St Martin’s-in-the-fields, Holy Trinity Sloane Square, the Guards’ Chapel, the National Liberal Club, and Lancaster House, and at events in Government Departments. We are honoured to sing at the Civil Service Rifles Memorial at Somerset House on Remembrance Sunday.  The choir has also been on tours to Belgium (singing at Menin Gate Last Post Ceremony in Ypres) and Normandy and is planning a tour to the Netherlands in the autumn of 2026.

As a partner organisation of the Josephine Baker Trust, we proudly support the development of emerging professional singers—helping nurture the next generation of vocal talent.

Making a difference through charity

Through our concerts and events, the choir has raised thousands of pounds for charities, using music to support a range of causes, including the Cardinal Hume Centre, the Charity for Civil Servants, Sinfonia Smith Square, the Life Boat Fund, and armed forces charities.

Musical excellence

Under the direction of founder music director Stephen Hall OBE, the choir has earned acclaim for its musical precision, emotional depth and electric presence. Music professionals and our audiences regularly praise our uplifting performances and exceptional preparation.

• “They perform with a genuine projection of enthusiasm… power and emotion… this group is going places!” — Bob Porter, Artistic Director, Brandenburg Sinfonia (2025)
• “One of the best I’ve ever heard.” — Jools Holland OBE (2024)
• “The atmosphere was charged with magic.” — Claudio Di Meo, Conductor (2024)
• “Their enthusiasm and sheer enjoyment of performing is infectious.” — Ben Parry, National Youth Choirs of Great Britain (2019)

See what else people have said here. See more of our history.

We are proudly supported by SPARTA and CSSC Sports & Leisure, long-time champions of the choir.

A warm and welcoming community

The Civil Service Choir is more than an ensemble – it is a dynamic, supportive community where people come together to create something extraordinary. With flexible lunchtime and evening rehearsals and the option to join remotely, we make it easy for civil servants to experience the joy of singing together. There are no auditions – everyone is welcome – though in striving for performances of a very high standard our rehearsals are fast paced and many of our members work to learn the music outside of rehearsals.

Become part of something remarkable

Whether you you want to hear a performance, are looking to perform thrilling choral music and build new friendships, or simply rediscover the joy of singing, the Civil Service Choir offers a great opportunity.

Join us—and add your voice to something truly inspiring.