Mission Statement
The David Clover Festival of Singing exists to celebrate and elevate the art of vocal performance by providing a nurturing and inspiring platform for singers of all ages and backgrounds. Rooted in the legacy of Dr David Clover, the Festival is dedicated to fostering musical excellence, encouraging artistic growth, and promoting the voice as a vital and expressive instrument. Through inclusive competitions, educational opportunities, and community engagement, we aim to support emerging talent, honour tradition, and contribute meaningfully to the cultural life of Sheffield and far beyond.
DR DAVID CLOVER
1930 – 1979
MA, DMUS, GTCL, FTCL, LTCL
Dr. David Clover(1930–1979) was a charismatic Senior Music Adviser for the City of Sheffield who profoundly transformed local music education and choral singing.
David was born in Fressingfield, Suffolk in 1930. He graduated from Trinity College of Music, London. He then studied for the Master of Arts degree from London University and was a member of The Royal College of Organists.
He was appointed as Sheffield’s Music Adviser to the Education Department in 1966 and in 1967, came the position of Senior Music adviser for The City of Sheffield. He was the Founder and Conductor of The City of Sheffield Teachers’ Choir (now known as Sheffield Music Makers) in 1968, which still performs today, and the Orchestra, leading to being the Founder and Conductor of The City of Sheffield Youth Chorale from 1969. On a National level he founded and conducted The British Youth Choir and Chamber Orchestra (now the National Youth Choir of Great Britain)
The annual“David Clover Festival of Singing”was founded in his memory as a unique national competition and showcase devoted entirely to vocal performance and young singers.
FESTIVAL COMMITTEE
Chairman: Chris Hudson MBE
Deputy Chair and Adviser: David Heslop OBE
Secretary: Kathryn Wells
Treasurer: Georgina Hulse
Music Co-ordinator: Vivien Pike
Entries Secretary: Eric Barraclough
Venues: Valerie Littledyke
Festival Friends: Geoff Littledyke
Sponsorship: Vacant
Publicity and Advertising: Anthony Trippett
Marketing and Media: Georgia Hall and Ann Fooks
General Administrator: Georgina Hulse