Friends of Clare Choir

Introduction from the Master

Clare Choir has gained an international reputation as one of the leading university choral groups in Britain. Its contribution to the life of the College, to music in the University and City of Cambridge, and to choral excellence in the UK and overseas, is remarkable and rightly celebrated.

In addition to its primary task of leading chapel services, Clare Choir gives frequent concerts, in Britain and abroad, and is a regular contributor to the Choral Evensong broadcasts on BBC Radio 3. In 2000, the Choir became the first mixed choir from Oxford or Cambridge to sing at the Proms.

This excellence has been nurtured by two outstanding Directors of Music, John Rutter and Tim Brown. I was delighted to witness John Rutter announce the launch of the Friends of Clare Choir (formerly the Clare Choir Association) at St John's, Smith Square to mark Tim's twenty-five years of musical leadership at Clare. I am honoured to have been asked to be the Friends’ first President.

In addition to its social role in bringing together former members of Clare Choir, I am confident that the Friends will play its part in supporting and fostering the activities of the Choir, now and in the future. Choral music is not only one of the great glories of Clare: it also enriches the lives of all those who participate, as singers or audience.

The Friends of Clare Choir offers an exciting new way of ensuring that this tradition of excellence is maintained. I hope very much that you will take the opportunity to become a member.

With best wishes,

Professor Tony Badger
Master of Clare College Cambridge & President of the Friends of Clare Choir