East Grinstead Choral Society

The Society was formed in October 1952 and has performed a varied and enterprising repertoire during its fifty-seven years.

Success as a choral society has depended largely on the inspiration and leadership of its Musical Directors—the current Director, Richard Jenkinson, has held the post for over twenty years. We also benefit greatly from the work of our assistant M.D. and rehearsal accompanist Jeremy Barham.

The Society has an active social programme and, from 1989, has toured in Europe, with a particular focus on visiting East Grinstead's twin towns.

East Grinstead

Formerly known as 'Grenstede', the historic market town of East Grinstead lies on the Greenwich Meridian, marking the boundary between the eastern and western hemispheres. It is situated on a hill over 130 metres above sea level, half way between London and the south coast of England.

The town has a population of over 24,000 and its high street, with many medieval and tudor buildings is a dedicated conservation area. The spire of St. Swithuns church dominates the skyline and can be seen for miles around. Although surrounded by farms, woodland and the great open space of the Ashdown Forest, the town has direct links to London by rail and motorway systems and is therefore ideally suited for commuters.

The nearby airport of Gatwick is just 20 minutes drive from the centre of the town. East Grinstead and Mindelheim have had a friendship agreement since 1976 and celebrated ten years of town twinning this year.