History 

The idea of the Godalming Children’s Choir was seeded by a conversation with a parent who was seeking an opportunity for their child to learn choral singing.  There was nothing available in Godalming.  The proposition was made to the Chair of Godalming Choral Society who welcomed the idea of exploring the opportunity to make provision for choral singing for young people under the aegis of the Godalming Choral Society.  Godalming Children’s Choir (GCC) was born.

In 2022, Members of GCS volunteered to be on the steering committee and all members were taken through detailed training on safeguarding.  Sam Hayes, the then Conductor of Godalming Choral Society, led the first series of workshops  from November 2022.  The children’s choir was involved in the Godalming Choral Society’s concert in December 2022.  

Following Sam Hayes’ departure, the committee advertised the post of music director and accompanist.  We were delighted to appoint Ben de Souza as Music Director.  Director of Farnham & Bourne Choral Society and Newbury Chamber Choir, as a Bass/baritone soloist, Ben has performed across the UK and Europe.  Karen Fisher-Pollard, appointed as accompanist, is an actress and musician.  As pianist and cellist she performs regularly and teaches music and singing in local primary schools.  Both Ben and Karen are passionate about helping children to develop their self-confidence through performing.  GCC is very grateful for their commitment and contribution. 

The Children’s Choir has more recently operated on a workshop series basis.  There have been several series since 2023 and today’s performance is the climax of the Autumn 2025 series.  As well as the workshops, the Godalming Children’s Choir has engaged with Brownie packs in Surrey, with ChoirBlast and with Staycation.

The GCC will be launching a new series of workshops in Spring 2026.  We welcome new members aged between 7 and 11.