York Musical Society (YMS) is a large and friendly choral society that rehearses in central York and performs popular and less-known works from the classical choral repertoire.

We perform three or four concerts a year, usually in the glorious venue of York Minster – memorable for performers and audience alike. We also give smaller, more informal concerts at Christmas.

The choir rehearses on Monday evenings at St Chad's church, Campleshon Road, York YO23 1EY.   We always welcome new members and Friends of YMS

YMS is twinned with a similar-sized choir in Germany, the Philharmonischer Chor Münster. It’s always a great pleasure to invite our friends from Münster to join us in a concert, or to travel to sing with them.

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Our musical director is David Pipe who, besides running YMS and working as a freelance organist, is increasingly in demand as a conductor, workshop leader, and adjudicator. Read his biography on our 'About Us' page.

We look forward to seeing you at our concerts, annual workshop and other events.    

OUR Next Concert:
Saturday 6 JUNE 2026 at 7.30PM

YORK MINSTER

ELGAR: DREAM OF GERONTIUS

With YMS Orchestra and guest Philharmonischer Chor Muenster


Tickets available here
 

BE PART OF IT: By joining Friends of YMS.

Click here to learn more

YMS: 150 YEARS


Did you know that 2026 is our 150 year anniversary? Our archivist has produced a wonderful booklet detailing the history of the choir and its performances. It is available to purchase from the link below:

YMS: 150 Years


 

YMS Community Events

We believe in encouraging more people to enjoy singing. We organise an annual choral workshop to which all singers are welcome.

We also take part in the Festival of Ideas run by the University of York, usually by holding an open rehearsal.

Want to hear what we sound like?
Verdi Requiem rehearsal June 2025
Click here Have a listen