The English Seminar Choir was founded in 1989 by Allan Turner, a former lecturer at Basel University, in order to provide an opportunity for students to practice English through song. With his profound knowledge of English choral repertoire and his dedication to his "hobby", the choir grew and thrived to become an integral part of the University and of Basel cultural life. The choir is under the leadership of Michel Uhlmann.

The choir is a non-profit making organisation, funded by members' dues, concert donations and sponsors contributions. Support in the form of concert attendance and donations, and assistance in the form of arts grants and sponsorship is greatly appreciated.