The choir was established in 1441 after King Henry VI founded the College and stated that he wanted to hear singing from the chapel every day. The choir consists of 14 choral and 2 organ scholars who have been given scholarships by the College School over the top of their other studies. Now renowned internationally they are known for their Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols which is broadcast annually on radio and also on television as Carols from Kings. They give many concerts worldwide and have made numerous celebrated recordings in the company of distinguished conductors. Their recordings include the works of Vivaldi, Scarlatti, Bach and Handel as well as their huge repertoire of anthems, hymns and carols. Championing works by contemporary composers they have commissioned music from people such as Richard Rodney Bennett, Arvo Part, Stephen Paulus, John Rutter and John Tavener. Throughout the years there have been many successful groups and soloists that have come from previous members including The Kings Singers, Collegium Regale, Sir David Willcocks, Sir Andrew Davis, Stephen Layton and Andrew Kennedy.

Cecil Alexander and Henry Gauntlett recordings

Once in Royal David's City

EMI 66241 (CD: Christmas Carols from Kings College, Cambridge)

Conductor - Sir David Willcocks

Gregorio Allegri recordings

Miserere

Decca 466 075-2 (CD: The Greatest Choral Show on Earth)

Conductor - Sir David Willcocks

Treble - Roy Goodman

EMI 5 75877 2 (CD: Allegri: Miserere; Gabrieli et.al)

Conductor - Stephen Cleobury

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