History

The Elland MVC was formed in a local working men's club in 1949 by a group of men who simply wanted to sing. However, it was decided that too much alcohol was being consumed during the interval, and rehearsals were moved to a Congregational Church. After a further change of venue to Elland Liberal club rehearsals were transferred to their current home at Bethesda Methodist Church in 1991.

The choir has always been a fairly local choir, rarely performing outside Elland and Halifax, although there has been a long association with Rochdale MVC which took the choirs regularly back and forth across the Pennines. When that choir disbanded several members transferred to Elland and became loyal members of the choir. Membership of the choir has always averaged about 30.

The choir has participated in joint choir concerts at the Royal Albert Hall and group 3 concerts in Huddersfield and Dewsbury; and recently with Halifax MVC performing at venues around Calderdale.

Concerts are usually held mainly in Churches, Schools and local halls. Soloists and other performers are often invited along; and we regularly share concerts with local schoolchildren at Christmas.

Janet Revill is our present Musical Director, following in her late Fathers footsteps. She has written and arranged several items for the choir.

In 2006 Halifax MVC disbanded and many of their members were welcomed into the Elland MVC bringing with them additional depth and wealth of talent. Elland MVC is now the only remaining male voice choir in Calderdale.