Established in 1858, the Choral has played a significant part in the musical life of the Scotland, having given the first Scottish performances of many works, including Bach's B Minor Mass. The choir also performed at the opening of the Usher Hall in 1914 and retains a strong association with this venue to the present day.

There is an illustrious history of performance with orchestras such as the Hallé, the Royal Philharmonic, The London Symphony, the Vienna Philharmonic, the BBC Scottish Symphony and the Royal Scottish National under such legendry figures as Sir Henry Wood, Sir Thomas Beecham, Sir Malcolm Sargent, Otto Klemperer, Sir Adrian Boult, Sir Charles Groves and Vernon Handley. But the ERCU is a modern choral society and aims to provide both Edinburgh and the wider Scottish musical scene with ongoing performances of the highest standard.

Recent concerts include:

• Rachmaninov's "The Bells" with Hudderfield Choral Society and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra
• Elgar's "Dream of Gerontius" with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra
• Mahler's "8th Symphony" with the Edinburgh Bach Choir, Jubilo and the Scottish Sinfonia
  
• Vaughan William's "Sea Symphony" with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra
  
• Annual performance of Messiah

Patrons of the Choral: The Lord Provost, Members of the City of Edinburgh Council

Honorary President:

• Martyn Brabbins

Honorary Vice-Presidents:

• Richard K. Austin W.S.
• Norman Irons C.B.E.
• Neil Mackie
• Patricia McMahon