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Below you’ll find answers to the questions we get asked the most about Barry Community Choir.
If you wish to ask us any other question please call us on 07932 523 415, email us at info@barrycommunitychoir.com or you can also use the contact form on our contact us page.
Do I need to read music?
No – the conductor has various methods of teaching people to sing, including supply of electronic audio file so that you can listen to, and learn your own part at home.
Do I need to have sung on a choir before?
No, we all bring different levels of experience.
Support is available to help you settle in, if you would like it.
Will I have to audition?
Will I ever have to sing on my own?
No, there are no auditions and you will not have to sing on your own. The Musical Director will chat with you to find out where you are likely to feel most comfortable singing, and the place best suited to your voice within our usual 3- or 4-part harmony set-up.
How big is the choir?
Between 25 – 35. We are currently consistently growing in numbers as more people seek and experience the benefits and enjoyment of singing in our choir.
Will my age be a barrier?
Certainly not! we welcome adults of all ages. Under 18’s are not able to join us unless accompanied at rehearsals and performances by their parent/guardian.
How do I know if my voice is high, low or just in between?
You probably don’t, unless you have sung in a Choir before. So just come along and see if your voice is anything like the person you are sitting next to. You can change at any time.
Is it just a ladies’ choir?
No, we are a mixed gender choir. During any year we have between 4 – 6 tenor / bass / baritone singers – but we could do with quite a few more!
What sort of things do you sing?
When the Choir was formed, the repertoire was mostly classical, however, during the last few years we have embraced a very eclectic variety of music – including pop, musical theatre, folk (English and occasionally Welsh), rock – whilst also still singing some of the beautiful “oldies.”
Where do you sing?
All over the place! We rehearse and will hold concerts in St John’s Methodist Church, Barry Island which has very easy access, is level inside and has a small car park. In the past, we have performed in a large variety of places, including large and tiny churches, chapels, care home communal rooms, coffee shops, pubs, library, barns, hospital and in the open air. Perhaps you know a group or society that would like us to sing for them?
Do you have any social events?
Yes – On the first Wednesday of every month we have a Coffee Evening and Raffle after our rehearsal.
Our concerts always include a Raffle and refreshments – a good time to get together with the choir, friends and family (we don’t charge admission for children under 14).
We also arrange occasional social evenings in local cafes and pubs as well as a Quiz Nights with spouses, partners, friends invited.
We have a Facebook page which we encourage members to share and we are always open to suggestions and ideas for new/different ways to socialise.
How much will it cost?
Current fees are £180 for a year (Jan – Dec) which can be paid in one lump sum, termly (3 x £60), monthly by Direct Debit, or by an arrangement with the Treasurer. We treat the first two sessions as “tasters” with no obligation to join, however after the second taster we would ask for a commitment.
How often is the cost reviewed?
Fees are reviewed at the end of each year and are decided at the AGM, usually held during February. We always do our best to keep our fees at a reasonable level.
Are there any discounts available on the membership fees?
We give discounts to Students and Emergency/Care/NHS workers as well as a reduction for two people from the same household.