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INFORMATION FOR NEW MEMBERS
New members are always welcome and are encouraged to attend a few rehearsals to give them the chance to decide whether or not they want to join as permanent members.
Audition
Permanent membership is after a successful audition which is designed to explore a new singer’s vocal range, intonation, level of sight-reading ability and their ability to blend with the choir.
Workshops
Workshops usually take place at the beginning of a new rehearsal schedule for a forthcoming season of concerts. Workshops usually take place on a Saturday morning and afternoon.
Rehearsals
A Rehearsal Schedule is established for each performance. There are no more than 6-8 rehearsals for each concert and sometimes fewer. There is, therefore, an expectation that members do further preparation in their own time between rehearsals.
Rehearsals are usually on Saturdays from 3pm to 5.30pm. Occasionally, rehearsals take place at other times, usually on Thursdays from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. At most rehearsals refreshments are available during the break at a nominal charge.
Rehearsal Attendance
Rehearsal schedules are sent to all members well in advance. It is hoped that all members will strive for 100% attendance at rehearsals for the concerts in which they wish to take part. Members must inform the Membership Secretary in advance if they cannot attend a rehearsal. More than 2 missed rehearsals may make it not possible to sing in the concert; this is at the discretion of the Music Director.
Vocal Scores
The Choir Librarian usually has scores available for sale at a discount from the retail price. Scores are also available for hire – a small fee is charged to cover the cost of hire.
Frequently used scores
Choir members are encouraged to have their own copies of the following scores:
Messiah G.F. Handel Watkin Shaw edition
European Sacred Music Oxford Choral Classics edited by John Rutter
Carols for Choirs Book 1 (green book) OUP
The Oxford Book of Tudor Anthems OUP
Music Folders
Black music folders are used by all choir members at all concerts. Folders are available for purchase from the Membership Secretary.
Dress Rehearsals
Dress rehearsals usually take place on the day of the concert from 2.30pm to 5.30pm with a performance at 7.30pm. Refreshments are not provided.
Choir Dress
The standard dress for most concerts is smart black.
Ladies: black shoes, black trouser suit or long black skirt with black top and choir scarf (scarves are available from the Membership Secretary).
Gentlemen: black shoes and socks, black trousers and long-sleeved open necked black shirt.
Annual Subscription
The annual subscription for all members is currently £110.
For further information please contact the Membership Secretary: