Singing Workshops

Every six weeks up to 20 students meet, some for the very first time, others continuing from previous workshops and learn a new set of songs for the up-coming public gig - ranging in style and genre from Simon and Garfunkel songs to arrangements of folk classics. Also in the mix are more current songs like Marc Ronson’s version of Valerie, to suit the dynamic and varied age range (16 – 65+). Every student has the opportunity to sing a solo and is accompanied by the rest of the choir. Sessions include fun warm-up routines and basic vocal exercises so individuals can develop and look after their voice.

Performances

There is nothing like the feeling of playing your first ever public gig or returning to play in front of people, in some cases, after 20 years. Our gigs, deliberately kept informal, showcase a range of talent and help nurture skills new and old to audiences made up of friendly faces - mostly friends and family of students. These gigs are hosted in venues from wine bars to arts and craft hubs to unusual dens such as a coffee house based in a cycle shop.

Some people say you are only as good as your last performance. With our workshop gigs we aim to help everyone feel at ease and improve their next performance. The opportunity to take away a CD recording of themselves with their group provides not only evidence of how good they sound but a nice keep sake they can share with friends and family who may never have heard them sing, strum or strike a note. Every 6 weeks new repertoire and songs produced and learnt – being able to record a CD also provides a good portfolio of songs that students can return to any time and perhaps introduce to others.

Every performance no matter whether it’s live or recorded, formal or informal is memorable. Our workshop students’ experiences are further increased with opportunities to perform on radio. The camaraderie of our workshop groups has been electric anytime the red light has flashed. Hearing our workshop students speak about their experiences in the workshops live to inquisitive radio presenters and then perform on cue has boosted the confidence of many a participant and given them a taste of life as a musician.