Singer

What kind of music does the choir sing?

Our repertoire is wide and varied covering sacred music, Scottish songs, classical pieces, musical theatre, operatic choruses and “easy listening”, and a typical concert will cover most (or all) of these genres in one night! We are also fortunate to have some fine soloists. To celebrate our recent 70th anniversary we commissioned our Honorary President, Bob Chilcott, to compose a song to mark the occasion. The result is Opening and we performed its world premiere in the RSNO Auditorium, Glasgow during our April 2022 spring concert. Opening has been very well received by a range of audiences and will remain part of our repertoire for a long time to come.

Must I be able to read music to sing in the choir?

No, contrary to popular belief you don’t. Whilst many of our members do read music there are quite a number who do not and some of these record rehearsals on dictating machines, mini-disc players, portable tape recorders, etc. to help them learn their lines. We’re used to having these things shoved under our noses so don’t worry about that! In addition, many parts are available as MP3 files from the choir’s website, thanks to our excellent Conductor Cameron Murdoch.

How often and where do you rehearse?

We rehearse every Monday evening during the concert season from 19:30 until 21:30 in St. John’s Renfield Church in Kelvindale. On street parking is free and we try to make room for everyone by parking front on to the pavement. If the season is very busy there may be an occasional Wednesday rehearsal and these are also in St. John’s Renfield Church.

What level of commitment do you require from members?

We do expect a serious commitment from our members and would hope that you would attend as many rehearsals and concerts as possible. However, most of us have day jobs too, so an occasional absence is understood. If you need to be absent for longer, this should be discussed with the choir manager as it may be better for you to take a leave of absence for a period.

How much does it cost to join?

It depends on the type of membership. For singers, the annual subscription is currently £80, unless aged between 18 and 21 when the cost is £40 annually. Payment is by annual standing order at the start of each season. Occasionally new members, at the discretion of the conductor, join as trial members and this costs £40.00 until our conductor confirms full membership. On achieving full membership, depending on the time of year, you would be expected to pay the full subscription.

Do I have to buy my own uniform if I join?

The ladies of the choir are supplied with black dresses and a range of coloured chiffons to alter the appearance of the dress, depending on the type of concert and venue.

For less formal settings, the ladies of the choir wear black dress trousers and a black blouse, which can be purchased from the Wardrobe Manager for £20.00. The gentlemen of the choir will each be supplied with one white and one black concert jacket, two black shirts and concert ties. They will, however, require to provide themselves with a white shirt, black trousers and black shoes. All members are responsible for the care of supplied costumes, which must be dry-cleaned and returned when you leave the choir. If you fail to return supplied items of clothing, you will be responsible for paying the choir for their replacement.

How can I join the choir and what support can I expect?

All new members will undertake a one to one audition with our conductor Cameron Murdoch. This entails singing a song of your choice and you will be taken through a few short exercises to test the type of voice you have. Decisions about membership are based on the conductor’s view of what the choir needs, at the time. New members are always welcome and during rehearsals you will be seated beside an experienced choir member who will act as a supporter for as long as you feel the need. The decision about performing your first concert will be made between you, your supporter and our conductor. Most choir members try to get involved as soon as possible and taking part in concerts is a good way of enhancing your learning but, as we perform most concerts ‘off-copy’, i.e. without reference to printed music, you will need to be confident that you can manage this. The choir is a very friendly group, so you will find that there are always plenty of people who will be eager to help you.