 The group was formed in 1986 by Simon Ravens with the intention of performing lesser-known choral music from the late Medieval and Renaissance periods, laying special emphasis on English sixteenth century music.The repertoire performed by the Consort made it, in the words of the local media of the time, occupy "a unique position in [New Zealand's] musical life" 

and that it was "one of New Zealand's musical wonders".Authentic performance practice is a major aim of The Tudor Consort, and consideration of ensemble size, pronunciation, pitch, vocal style and ornamentation feature strongly in the work of the group.