Choir Charity Status
First, to dispel any misunderstandings, being registered as a charity or to be recognised as a charitable choir has nothing to do with a choir raising funds for charities and good causes. A British choir can be recognised as a charity if its object is to further the cause of Choral Music by its study and practice and by its public performance in order to foster public appreciation of such music. If a choir does this, as most choirs do, then the choir itself becomes the registered charity.
The NAC is able to offer advice to its members as well as a selection of information leaflets and relevant documents to allow you to make a new application to become a charity - this information is restricted to members of the NAC, if you are a member please log in or contact the NAC General Secretary in the first instance for further help and advice.
Summary of what follows.
- Choirs can qualify to be recognised as a Charity in their own right.
- By registering as a Charity there are a number of tangible (financial) benefits to be gained
- The prime requirements for registration are that the choir has a turnover greater than £5000 per annum and that they have and abid by approved and adopted Rules and Constitution.
- Once registered the choir must be properly managed by its members and committee who in turn become Trustees of the Charity for the duration of their office term.
- Being registered makes little or no difference to the essential operations of the choir (i.e. what you can do).
- The registration process is not difficult - but if you need help we, the NAC, can provide it.
- Where to contact the Charity Commission.
