Joining the Choir

• How can I join the choir?   New members are welcome. Come to one of our taster sessions on the first two Wednesdays of any term. Just turn up and say hello and we'll find someone to look after you. Please read the Join page to see our next starter dates and find more information. 

• Can I come along to try it out before committing?   Yes, you’re welcome to attend a free taster session to see if the choir is right for you. If you decide to join we'll let you know how to pay. The costs are explained here.  It's important that you know you can leave at any time. If you want to leave, just message Ruth or Georgie, make sure you've paid for the sessions you've had, and cancel your standing order.

• Do I need to audition to join?  No, you don’t need to audition. We believe everyone can learn how to sing and welcome all abilities and backgrounds.

• Are there age restrictions for joining?   We welcome adults of all ages.

• I’m not religious. Can I still join the choir?   Of course! Our choir is open to everyone, regardless of religious beliefs. We focus on the joy and spirit of gospel music.

• Which section is best suited to me? (Tenor, Alto, Soprano)?  Don’t worry if you’re unsure. Try what you think and feel free to move - ask Ley.​​​​

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Membership and Costs

• How much does it cost?   Please read about paying here

• Are there discounts?   We aim to keep costs affordable and in line with other choirs. Unfortunately we are not able to offer any discounts.

• What does membership of FCGC mean?  So much! You'll be part of the best choir, get fantastic  coaching during practices, sing wonderful songs with brilliant people and perform to great audiences.  You'll get access to the Members area of the website where you'll be able to find music to practise.

• Do I need to have WhatsApp?  We communicate essential information by WhatsApp so it would be a bit tricky if you didn't.

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Community and Inclusivity

• Will I feel welcome?   Absolutely! We pride ourselves on being a friendly, inclusive, and supportive community. Everyone is welcome.

• Are there social opportunities in the choir?   Yes. You will soon make new friends.  We have an optional WhatsApp group for friendly chat as well as an essential one for important information.

• How many choir members are there?   Our numbers vary, but we typically have around 70 members. There’s always room for more voices.

 

Rehearsals and Learning

• When and where do you meet?  Details here

• When are your term dates?   2024-25 term dates

• What happens during a typical rehearsal?   Rehearsals typically start with a warm-up, followed by learning or practising songs. We have a break half way through when you can use our cafe. The atmosphere is relaxed and supportive, making it a great place to grow your skills.

• I’m worried about learning the songs.  Don’t worry! In the Members Area of the website we provide recordings to help you practise. Plus, our rehearsals include plenty of guidance to ensure everyone feels confident.

• What should I bring to rehearsal?  Bring yourself, a bottle of water, and a phone for recording bits. We’ll provide everything else you need. We even have a cafe!

• How can I help reheasals go well?  We're a social bunch and we like a chat.  However it is much better if we listen and don't talk while Ley is speaking. Or when she's about to speak!

• Do I have to attend every practice?  No. While regular attendance is encouraged to stay up-to-date, we understand that life can be busy. Ideally let us know if you can’t make it.

• What if I can’t read music?  That’s no problem - we don't use sheet music. Ley wants us to learn by ear, and we’ll support you with resources to help you learn the songs in the Members Area of our website.

• How do I access the Members Area?  It's very easy.  Ruth will give you that information when you've joined.

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Performances and Events

• Will I have to sing at events?  Performing at events is encouraged but not mandatory. If you’re not ready or prefer not to perform, that’s perfectly fine.

• When will I be ready to perform?  The ethos of the choir is that you are ready to perform when you have been attending regularly and are able to sing the specified full set of songs at performance level, confident of all the parts and without the aid of any lyrics.

• Can I perform at every gig?   We wish you could! Unfortunately some venues can't accomodate all the choir, so sometimes we have to limit numbers.  We try to do this fairly.  Ruth will have sign-up sheets for each event.  Please make sure you fill these in, indicating if you are available or not.  Don't book tickets for friends and family if it hasn't been confirmed that you are performing.

• Do you perform at specific types of events?  We perform at a variety of events, including community gatherings, charity fundraisers, and festivals.

• What should I wear to perform?  We would like you to follow this guidance

• Do I have to pay to sing at events?  No

• If I'm singing at a festival, can I stay for the day?  Yes, unless we tell you otherwise.

• What kind of songs does the choir sing?  Our repertoire includes a mix of traditional and contemporary gospel music. Many of the songs are widely recognised and loved, such as "Oh Happy Day," "Lean on Me," and "Amazing Grace." We also perform pieces like "Wade In The Water," "Heaven Help Us All," and "Go Tell It On The Mountain." The songs are uplifting and enjoyable for audiences and performers.

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Who's Who?

• Ley Adewole and Richard Penrose run the choir.  Sam Norman is the bass player.​

 

• Ruth Hills is the Choir Administrator

• Georgie Storey manages finances, supported by Hazel Evans

• Sara Caddel is in charge of social media

• Go to Dana for t-shirts, Lorna for badges, Maria for parties and Teresa for anything​

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