Bradford has a long tradition of choral singing, rooted in the mills of the district’s industrial heyday.

Now, a historic choral society aims to revive the tradition by offering a crash course in singing.

Bradford Festival Choral Society’s ten-week Learn To Sing course is led by professional soprano Sally Egan – former vocal coach to the Westminster Abbey choir – with other experts.

It provides an introduction to vocal exercises, breathing, posture, harmony singing, reading music and the opportunity to sing a range of choral music. The course culminates in a performance at the society’s spring concert at Bradford Grammar School on May 1.

“The course is aimed at beginners or those returning to singing after a break,” said choral society chairman James Beattie.

“We hope it will swell membership, helping to continue the society for future generations. But this crash course is about more than that; through teaching ordinary people to sing we’re reconnecting with what’s at the heart of our founding principles – education.

“As a charity, education and high-quality music performance are our core.

“Popular TV programmes like The Choir and Last Choir Standing confirm the nation’s interest in singing, but many people don’t feel confident enough to join a choir. It takes some nerve to do that, especially if you think you can’t sing.”

He added: “Music cuts in education have had a negative effect. We’re losing the choral-singing tradition we once had, when it was commonplace to sing in school, church and community choirs.

“Choral singing is closely tied with our textile past; mills and factories had their own choirs. A choir of Bradford millworkers once performed for Queen Victoria.”

Mr Beattie said choral singing has a positive effect on well-being. “It’s good for you, it de-stresses you and releases positive hormones. It has the same physiological effect as yoga,” he said.

Founded in 1853, Bradford Festival Choral Society has performed at St George’s Hall since it was built.

Sir Titus Salt was a patron and the society sang at a concert celebrating the opening of Saltaire.

The father of Bradford composer Frederick Delius served on the committee, Sir Charles Halle was one of the first conductors, and Gareth Gates sang treble with the society before his voice broke.

The Learn To Sing course starts on Tuesday at Victoria Hall, Saltaire, at 7.30pm. For more information, ring (01274) 593672, e-mail sing@bradfordfestivalchoralsociety.org.uk, or visit bradfordfestivalchoralsociety.org.uk