Formed in 1965 by a small group of enthusiasts, Churchdown Male Voice Choir celebrated its 40th anniversary in December 2005. Originally called Churchdown Male Chorus, the choir's first conductor was Roy Dorrington. Under its current name, the choir's next conductor was John Stead, who handed over to John Blenkinsopp, the present Musical Director, in 1974. For a short time, during John's absence in 1981, the choir was led by Shirley Gayler.

In the first few years the choir successfully took part in several music competitions, winning the Brownhills Music Festival, a second place at Ruardean Music Festival and, under the leadership of John Blenkinsopp, the Cheltenham Orchestral and Choral Societies Challenge Cup. Preparing for competition, however, is a major commitment and the decision was taken to concentrate efforts on using the choir's talents to perform concerts and to raise funds for charity.

Several pianists have accompanied the choir through the years. Richard Hatton was followed by David Mitchell, Mary Carter, Peggy Brooks, Sister Mary Morton, Margaret Holloway, Jane Harper and since 1998, the brilliant Pam Taverner. Pam is valued for her accompaniment to the choir and to the choir soloists, her own solo performances and her willingness to become involved in all sorts of music making.

In 2000, Ralph Barnes joined the choir and within a few years was appointed Assistant Musical Director. Ralph has brought a new dimension to the choir through his youth and enthusiasm. He is also a soloist, and his lovely tenor voice is much appreciated by both choir and audiences.

Musical Director John Blenkinsopp has provided a wonderful example of musicianship and dedication for more than 30 years. He has worked hard with the choir to produce as fine a sound as possible and has introduced to the repertoire songs not normally sung by male voice choirs. Extended works from the classics, songs to accompany soloists and operatic choruses sung with orchestras and bands have all been featured in the last few years. In 2004, Cheltenham Arts Council presented John with the Opera Cup in recognition of his contribution to music in the county.

The choir has always enjoyed appearing with soloists of the highest quality. Many local singers have sung with the choir, and a particular favourite is Sue Black from Malvern, who has been steadfast in her support for the choir over many years. With her beautiful soprano voice and sparkling stage presence she has charmed audiences in this country and on tour.

The choir's first tour was in 1980 to Frinton-on-Sea in Essex followed by a visit to Deal in Kent. Since then, with few exceptions, the choir has toured every year, visiting several English cathedral towns and coastal resorts, the Isle of Man and the Isle of Wight, Jersey and The Netherlands. In 2000 the choir completed a 14 day, 4 concert tour to Washington DC and in July 2005 represented Tewkesbury District Twinning Association in a highly successful seven-day trip to Miesbach in Upper Bavaria.