The Festival is open to all singers from the age of 9 and its chief objective is to foster that branch of music-making which was ever one of David's loves - singing. He strongly maintained, as others have, that everybody has a musical instrument which can be developed - the voice - and much of his work was devoted to fostering the use of young voices whether as soloists or choralists. The competition still provides opportunities for young singers to perform songs of their own choice with a view to being helped and encouraged by experienced judges of singing, many of whom are teachers of singing in the country's leading musical institutions.

Since those early days, the Festival has grown considerably and enjoys a national reputation as a Festival of worth, quality and stature.

Singers may take part in both the Recital and Non-Recital categories. The Recital category has 4 age groups: Junior (13-15), Intermediate (16 and 17) Senior (18-21) and Open (22 and over). The Non-Recital category has the same 4 age groups. Detailed information about all Classes can be found here.

The climax of the Festival and Presentation of Awards is held in the resplendent ballroom of the Holiday Inn, Royal Victoria Hotel, Sheffield, in the presence of civic and musical dignitaries.

The Festival is sponsored and administered by The City of Sheffield Teachers' Choir and is affiliated to the British & International Federation of Festivals.