Castleford Male Voice Choir announces plans for centenary celebrations
Castleford Male Voice Choir (CMVC) is proudly celebrating 100 years of singing, friendship and shared purpose as it reflects on a century at the heart of community life.
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Since 1926, CMVC has brought men together through song, strengthening bonds across generations and proving that music has the power to unite, uplift and connect.
The centenary year promises a programme of concerts, collaborations, civic engagements and community events – honouring the past while inspiring the future.
A spokesperson said: "Castleford Male Voice Choir has spent a century enriching lives through music, camaraderie and civic pride. Built on friendship and community spirit, the choir remains a welcoming space for men of all ages and backgrounds.
"2026 is more than a celebration of the past – it is a declaration that the next century begins now."
The centenary year will open in powerful style as CMVC joins the Yorkshire Imperial Band, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2026, for a concert at St Austin's, Wakefield, on Saturday, March 21, 7.15pm.
CMVC will team up with the West Yorkshire Police Band for a joint concert at the Salvation Army Hall in Castleford on Saturday, April 18, 7pm.
CMVC’s much-loved Party in the Park grows bigger than ever as Project Cas 100 takes centre stage. The Centenary Community Day on Saturday, June 20, taking place from 11am until 4pm at WX The Exchange in Wakefield, will be a celebration of togetherness and intergenerational friendship.
The day will feature performances by CMVC and guest choirs, as well as bands, dancers and local musicians. There will also be a makers' market of crafts and produce, as well as family activities and community games.
CMVC will officially mark its centenary in a concert of reflection and celebration at Wakefield Cathedral on Saturday, June 20, 7pm. Joined by the Castleford Salvation Army Band, Kidderminster Male Choir and Blackpool Male Voice Choir, the evening will honour the choristers past and present, the families who supported them, and those whose legacy lives on in song.
Two Castleford icons will unite on Saturday, July 25 as CMVC celebrates alongside Castleford Tigers Rugby League Club at "A Century United" Party on the Pitch at the Tigers' stadium on Saturday, July 25. Expect live music, dance, storytelling, vintage vehicles and activities bringing generations together.
The choir will travel across borders for a UK tour in August in celebration of shared heritage and friendship. Highlights include performances with Dumfries Male Voice Choir and Portadown Male Voice Choir, plus a closing concert in one of England’s oldest cathedrals.
CMVC will give a joint concert with Melodia at Top Club, Methley, on Friday, September 11 at 7.30pm. Now a firm favourite on the calendar, this collaboration raises funds for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.
Other events taking place later in the year include the Castleford Young Musicians Celebration on Saturday, September 26; the Halloween Special variety show at the Roundhill Club on Friday, October 30 to raise funds to support the choir's community work; and the annual Remembrance service at Castleford Indoor Market on Saturday, November 7.
The centenary programme will draw to a close with the Christmas carol service at The Citadel Salvation Army Hall in Castleford on Friday, December 4, 7.15pm, where the choir will perform alongside Castleford Salvation Army Band, bringing the curtain down on an unforgettable year.
Throughout 2026, the choir is working in partnership with local schools on a centenary community mural project, inviting young people to explore Castleford’s musical and cultural heritage through art.
The mural will celebrate 100 years of harmony, friendship and town pride – capturing memories from past generations while giving today’s young voices ownership of the next chapter.
Workshops, storytelling sessions and collaborative design days will ensure the artwork reflects the spirit of Castleford and the power of community.
Alongside this, CMVC will continue performing in churches, civic buildings and community venues across Yorkshire, supporting well-being and reminding communities that nobody sings alone.
On the last Saturday of every month, CMVC’s charity Butty Club offers a relaxed coffee morning atmosphere with breakfast sandwiches and a sing-along.
The spokesperson said: "It’s a gentle first step for anyone curious about joining, and a lifeline for those who may feel isolated."
As CMVC enters its second century, new members are warmly invited to join. No experience is needed – just enthusiasm, friendship and a willingness to sing.
Rehearsals are held at Trinity Methodist Church, Powell Street, Castleford, on Fridays at 7.30pm.