Shirley Rumsey studied lute and voice at the Royal College of Music, London. There she became interested in solo vocal music accompanied by lute and she soon developed a unique career in which she performs this repertoire. In addition to solo recitals, she frequently collaborates with lutenist Christopher Wilson with whom she co-directs the ensemble Kithara. Rumsey has performed extensively throughout Europe and Scandinavia, has taken part in numerous festivals, and made numerous recordings.