Bolton Festival Choir was established in 1994, with the aim of offering local singers the opportunity to perform works that they were unlikely to sing with their own choirs, and to learn music in a relatively short time.

Some members of the choir come from a considerable distance, whilst others are members of regular Bolton choirs.
The choir has been formally constituted as an independent voluntary organisation - a major step financially, and one reflecting its wish to present some of the most exciting music making in Bolton.

Bolton Festival Orchestra is also drawn from a wide geographical area, and comprises talented, experienced players keen to learn challenging repertoire on a tight rehearsal schedule. New members of both choir and orchestra are always welcome. Rehearsals take place in August.