The Elgar Chorale was founded by Donald Hunt in 1980. It was first known as the Donald Hunt Singers and has established itself as one of the leading specialist choirs in the West Midlands. With a repertoire extending from early music to popular modern arrangements, the Chorale, throughout its existence, has featured English music, particularly the choral songs of Elgar. Its recording of the composer's complete works in this genre elicited wide critical acclaim when first issued in 1989 and is still considered by many to be the definitive recording of these miniature masterpieces.