[1][2] Based in London, UK, the group performs Christian choral music in concerts,[3] worship services and television[4] and radio[5][6][7] broadcasts, and has recorded more than 50 albums since its inauguration.

[10] The ISS regularly visits Salvation Army centres in the UK[11] and has undertaken several international tours, including Europe, North and South America, Africa, and Australasia.

[16] The ISS website states: We believe passionately in the power of music and singing to share God’s love and to bring people and communities together.

[23] The ISS was originally established by an official minute issued by the Salvation Army's Chief of the Staff, Bramwell Booth, in March 1897.

[24] The group was composed of employees of the organisation's International Headquarters (IHQ) in London[25][26] and the chief of the accounts department, Herbert Jackson, was appointed the first leader of the songsters.

[33]An inaugural concert took place at the Fairfield Halls, Croydon on 8th March 1980,[34] following which Norman Bearcroft led the ISS for 10 years.

[20] In October 2021, the ISS took part in a special service on BBC Radio 4 to commemorate World Mental Health Day.