About the Choir

West Devon Chorale was formed in 1999 and its membership of about 30 singers is made up of a number of the most experienced choristers in the region. The choir gives four concerts each season in Devon/Cornwall with occasional concerts in other areas. The repertoire of the choir is wide ranging, but principally religious music from the sixteenth century to the present day, either with organ or unaccompanied. The choir’s repertoire is planned to produce an interesting mix which gives audiences an opportunity to hear pieces within the established choral repertoire as well as the less well known works.

The choir does not meet weekly but gives concerts following three intensive rehearsals; soloists are drawn from within the choir. Singers are chosen for their quality of voice and ability to blend into the distinctive sound the choir strives to produce. Good sight reading ability is essential

Choristers interested in joining should contact the choir’s administrator in the first instance.

Music Director Michael Johnson

Michael Johnson studied at the Royal College of Music, London where his teachers included Hervey Alan for singing, Antonio Brosa for violin, and Herbert Howells and Anthony Milner for his B.Mus Degree.

In a long and varied career as a professional musician, Michael has been Chief Music Manager of Leeds City Council and General Manager at St David’s Hall, Cardiff and Plymouth Pavilions. While working in the south west he was also Director of the University of Plymouth Choral Society and the South West Chamber Choir.

Now based in Wiltshire, much of his time presently is spent as an Examiner for the Associated Board and he has travelled to all parts of the world on exam tours. Michael is a part-time tutor at the University of Bath and teaches privately at his studio near Devizes.