Photo : Bath Abbey
Bath Abbey Choir
Experience a touch of British grandeur as one of the UK’s most acclaimed cathedral choirs visits our city. Led by a director who has orchestrated music for the Royal Family, these singers offer a breathtaking masterclass in vocal harmony. It is the perfect opportunity to pause time and get lost in the sheer beauty of a historic musical tradition.
Église Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis (Paris 4th)
About
On Friday, October 30, 2026, the Bath Abbey Choir performs at the Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis church. This renowned British ensemble, featuring twenty boys and twelve adults, brings its rich choral heritage to the heart of the 4th arrondissement. Led by internationally acclaimed organist and conductor Huw Williams, the choir delivers a professional display of vocal excellence. Whether you are a classical music enthusiast or simply looking for an elegant cultural experience, this event is a must-see. Admission is free, making this a accessible opportunity to witness world-class singers in a historic setting.
The Bath Abbey Choirs are among the most renowned in the United Kingdom. In this Abbey, built in the 8th century, music has always played a central role. Carrying on this choral tradition, and composed of 20 boys and 12 adults, the choirs lead religious services at the Abbey throughout the year.
The men and boys choirs celebrated their 150th anniversary in 2025 with the release of their latest CD Everlasting Light. They perform frequently on tour, most recently at St Davids Cathedral in Wales in May 2025; in Paris in May 2024, including Masses at the churches of Saint-Sulpice and Saint-Eustache; and at St Paul's Cathedral in London in January 2024. They recently sang an Evensong service at Bath Abbey, which was broadcast live on BBC Radio 3.
The choirs are under the direction of Huw Williams, an internationally renowned organist and choirmaster. Before becoming Director of Music at Bath Abbey, Huw Williams was Director of Music at the Chapel Royal of St James’ Palace, following in this position illustrious predecessors such as Thomas Tallis, William Byrd, and Henry Purcell. He directed the music for the baptism of Prince George, the Queen's 2015 Christmas message, Remembrance ceremonies, and numerous solemnities in the presence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. For 10 years, Huw Williams was the principal organist at St Paul's Cathedral in London.
Our take on this event
The Bath Abbey Choir makes a special appearance in Paris on October 30, 2026. From 17:30 to 18:30, the Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis church will host the performance, showcasing the talents of twenty boys and twelve adults. With a musical tradition dating back to the 8th century, the choir continues to perform globally, celebrating their 150th anniversary in 2025 and marking their return to Paris following previous successful performances at Saint-Sulpice and Saint-Eustache.
The ensemble operates under the direction of Huw Williams, an organist and conductor with a prestigious international reputation. Having served as the Director of Music at the Chapel Royal, St James’ Palace, and as the organist at St Paul’s Cathedral in London, Williams has overseen music for significant royal ceremonies. His leadership ensures a high level of artistic precision for this evening's program.
The concert is free to attend and open to the general public. This event serves as a rare chance to hear a choir that frequently performs in major international venues and broadcasts on platforms like BBC Radio 3, right here in the 4th arrondissement.
