About us

The Madrigal Society, one of the oldest amateur music-making organisations in England, was founded in 1741 by a group of amateur and professional musicians dedicated to the performance and preservation of madrigals—a form of unaccompanied secular vocal music that flourished in Italy and England from the 16th to the early-17th century. The society emerged during a time of growing interest in early music and historical performance practices, reflecting the broader cultural movement of antiquarianism in 18th-century Britain.

The society's founding members were inspired by the works of composers such as Thomas Morley, John Wilbye, and Thomas Weelkes, whose madrigals were celebrated for their intricate polyphony and expressive texts. The Madrigal Society aimed to revive interest in these compositions, which had fallen out of fashion by the early-18th century, and to promote their performance in a social and educational context. The earliest meetings were held weekly in taverns within the City of London, where members would gather to sing madrigals, take refreshment, and enjoy the conviviality of one another’s company.

Throughout its history, the Madrigal Society has played a significant role in the early music revival movement. It has organised competitions to encourage the composition of new madrigals and encouraged the study of historical performance practices. Since the first meeting, not only have madrigals been included at meetings, but so also has church music – both English-texted anthems and Latin motets – highlighting the huge significance of the Society in the story of the English church-music revival.

The Madrigal Society faced some challenges with dwindling membership during the late-19th century as changing musical tastes and the rise of large-scale choral works shifted the public’s musical appetite. However, the determination of members to revive and sustain the society saw a positive change in its fortune and popularity.

Today, the society remains active, upholding its traditions and rituals and above all continuing in its promotion and love of singing. Its enduring legacy is a testament to the timeless appeal of this rich musical heritage.

The society meets in the City, at the Tallow Chandlers’ Hall, six times a year, from November to April. Membership remains by invitation only, but expressions and enquiries of interest in membership for all voice parts are warmly encouraged.