What kind of choir is St Matthew’s Choir?
We are a friendly, informal, amateur choir.
Where is St Matthew’s Choir based?
St Matthew’s Choir has a strong association with
St. Matthew's
Church
and usually performs there.
Where and when do you rehearse?
We rehearse concert material every Thursday evening at St. Matthew's Church, North Common Road, Ealing
from 7.30 – 9.30pm. We rehearse service material every Sunday
morning starting at 10am for a 10.30 service.
Do I have to belong to St Matthew’s Church?
No, the Thursday and Sunday choirs are related but you can sing in
either or both, as it suits you.
How many singers are there in the choir?
The number of singers varies depending on the material being rehearsed;
it varies from 45 to 65.
Do I have to audition to join?
You will be asked to do in your audition what would be expected from you
in rehearsal or concert, you will be accompanied on the piano, and will
be able to use a score. There are some warm-up exercises and scales to
show range, tone and pitch. This will be followed by singing extracts
from what we have been working on in the previous couple of rehearsals
and a short sight singing exercise which will be taken from a standard
choral work. Finally, and optionally, you may chose to sing a
piece or extract of your own choice, up to about 3 minutes long.
This would be useful if you would like to be considered for a solo at
some point. The result of the audition will be given at the end of
the session.
How much does it cost to be a member?
The choir has a small subscription of £15 per term. So that prospective
members can try out the choir before deciding to join, subscriptions
only become payable after the first 3 rehearsals. You will find a
membership application form here.
How many concerts do you give a year?
We usually give 3 major concerts and sing at the Advent and Good Friday
services at the church. All singers may sing at the Sunday morning
services.
How is concert material chosen?
The Musical Director chooses the programme for each year.
How are soloists selected?
The Musical Director will either offer solos to choir members or will
book professional singers, depending upon the material and type of
concert.
Will I be able to sing in the next concert if I
join now?
Usually, but this is at the discretion of the Musical Director.
What social activities does the choir organise?
We generally go to the pub after rehearsals!
We have an annual choir party and ‘talent spot’
We have a Triennial Messiah to get old and new members together.
We go out for a choir dinner once a year or so.
Will I meet attractive members of the
opposite/same sex?
Yes, and some not so attractive.
Can I do more than just sing?
Yes, we welcome singers who can also design posters, write programmes,
distribute publicity and who can coerce friends and relatives to sell
tickets or wine and make up the audience numbers.
Is there any other form of membership?
There is a 100-club for anyone who would like to support the choir
financially. Tickets cost £15 and run for a year. Every
month 3 tickets are drawn and prizes of £30, £20 and £10 are
awarded.
How do I join?
Just come along to a rehearsal on a Thursday evening or a Sunday
morning. Call the Choir Manager or Musical Director first if you would
like, on 020 8998 2879 or email us:
Manager.
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