Why not sing?

A new year . A time for new resolutions and for new interests. What better time to think about joining a choir. Good for your health (physical and mental) ,relatively inexpensive, and good for your social life. It could transform your life – it has for many. Time to take the plunge. But where does one start? Here are some frequently asked questions:

*Will I need to audition?

Though there are some choirs that are unauditioned (if you are totally new to singing this may be a good place to start) most tend to have a short, simple audition that will give the conductor some idea of your abilities. It will also be used to determine in what section you will sing - soprano, alto, tenor or bass (most will actually tend to be mezzo sopranos or baritones). This should not be an onerous exercise. Remember that it is in the choir’s interest to bring in new members. No one will expect you to be a great soloist immediately but they will look for some potential as a good chorister.

*Do I need to read music?

This will vary greatly from choir to choir. Almost all choirs are a mixture of readers and non-readers and the inability to read music will not preclude you from most. There is, however, no doubt that improving your music reading skills will increase your enjoyment.

*What sort of choir should I go for?

The first thing to decide may be what sort of music you want to sing. There is a huge range of choir types – community, church, barbershop, classical, gospel, musical theatre, chamber etc. and many will sing a mixture of musical types though some will be more prescriptive and sing a narrower range of music. You will also want to consider whether you wish to be part of a single sex choir or a mixed choir – there are plenty to choose from.

A visit to a rehearsal or concert will always be a good guide. You may also need to think about the degree of commitment required of you – some choirs rehearse once a week, some twice a week ; some sing up to 20 performances in a year, others only 3 or 4 times a year.

*What welcome will I get?

Choirs will normally provide a very warm welcome to new members , especially as they are all in need of new blood. Much of the enjoyment of the rehearsal will depend on the conductor - there should be good musical standards and the group should be stretched with everyone inspired to give of their best. It is also essential that there is a sense of fun and enjoyment. After arriving from a hard day at work the best rehearsals will often leave you reinvigorated and with a real sense of achievement.

For many people the most difficult thing will be to walk through the doors of the rehearsal room for the first time- once that is overcome it is likely to be one of the best decisions you've ever made.