Church Choir
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering singing with us or if you’re just curious to learn more, we’re sure you’ll have lots of questions. We’ve shared the answers to our frequently asked questions below but if your question isn’t answered, please reach out to us.
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Our choir is open to all. There are no auditions or entry requirements - just a willingness to sing, to be part of a community, and to share in the joy of worship together.
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No, everything you need will be provided and there are no fees to join us.
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Many of our singers enjoy being part of the choir without reading music, and you can absolutely join us without this skill. While a basic understanding of music can be helpful, it is by no means essential, and support is always available as you find your feet.
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The choir rehearses weekly on Friday evenings, from 7.00pm to 8.00pm, here in the church. Rehearsals are relaxed, supportive, and a great way to build confidence and familiarity before singing in services.
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Each month, the choir regularly supports worship at three services:
1st Sunday: Choral Evensong (Hymns, Anthems, Psalms, Settings and Responses)
2nd Sunday: Holy Communion (Hymns and Anthems)
4th Sunday: Holy Communion (Hymns and Anthems)
In addition, the choir supports a wide range of services and events throughout the year, including major festivals such as Easter and Christmas, as well as weddings and funerals.
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Our music reflects the breadth of the Church’s worship, ranging from traditional hymns and carols to modern choral anthems, allowing space for both heritage and creativity.
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Not at all. We understand that life is busy, and you are welcome to attend as frequently or infrequently as you are able. We can also share with you our schedule of music if you would like to practice or sing with another choir. If you can’t attend regularly but would like to join us to sing hymns, we recommend joining the Friday rehearsal immediately before a service you plan to sing at, to help you feel prepared and confident.
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Absolutely. You are very welcome to attend rehearsals for as long as you need before singing in a service or event. Many people choose to build confidence gradually, and we’re happy to support you at your own pace.
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No formal training is required to join the choir.
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You don’t need to be baptised or confirmed, and you’re welcome to join us at any point in your journey of faith.
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For formal services and events, the choir wears robes, which give us a shared and traditional identity. Underneath, members wear whatever comfortable clothing they would normally wear to church - there is no formal dress code. The church holds a stock of robes and will work with you to ensure you have a comfortable set whenever you are singing with us.
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When the choir is part of a service, members enter as part of a procession with the clergy and servers and are seated in the choir stalls in the chancel, helping to shape the rhythm and atmosphere of our worship. Alongside leading the hymns, the choir usually sings an anthem during Communion and occasionally an introit at the start of the service.
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Yes - visiting singers are very welcome. Whether you’re staying in the area for a short time or want to attend one event, or want to attend one type of service regularly we’d be delighted to have you join us. We invite visiting voices to come along to a Friday rehearsal, where you can meet the choir, get a feel for how we work, and decide whether you’d like to sing with us in a service or event during your stay.
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Our choir has supported many choristers to achieve Voice for Life awards with the Royal School of Church Music. For more information please see https://www.rscm.org.uk/learn-with-us/voice-for-life-and-singing-awards/