WELCOME

wHY YOU ‘CAN’ AND ‘SHOULD’ JOIN US.

Palmer Morewood Social Club, Hall Street, Alfreton 6.30 – 8.30 every Thursday

We are open to all levels of ability; maybe you once sang in a choir but lost contact, maybe you haven’t experienced the fun and sense of achievement from being in a choir, maybe you just thought it was only for ‘old’ people. The earlier you start, the longer you have to enjoy it so come along and start your journey. The idea of it being for ‘old’ men (whilst we cannot deny that the older generation do play a part) is misleading. We are open to all who enjoy good company and a sense of achievement.

When approaching potential beginners, there is, very often, a cry of, ” I can’t sing” or ”I can’t read music”. You do not need to be able to read music (many choristers will attest to that) and there is no audition process. The dots on the page go up or down the lines, some are white, some are black and that tells you enough to make a start. Follow the colleagues in your section and away you go, the MD will help with anything more technical. We will provide a list describing the basic requirements. The idea that you cannot sing needs to be investigated but you may be surprised to learn what you can do. It will not take long to appreciate the instructions on the page and find the notes. You are a musician.
New and experienced singers should remember the health benefits. Singing in a choir is good for the heart and the lungs; whilst not on the NHS, we believe it should be. In fact, having looked into this idea, it is clear from available information (on the internet) that singing is a tried and tested procedure and is promoted widely as a health benefit. It’s even been said recently (by the BBC) that it is good for Post Natal Depression cases. Fair to say, we don’t, at present, get many of those issues in our choir, but it shows how far the benefits can reach.
In early 2015, one of our members was diagnosed with lung cancer. Listen to the interview below with Sally Pepper on Radio Derby to see how the choir itself and the joy of singing helped John through the ordeal.

Come and give it a go, you would not regret it (and it will do you good). Whatever the age you have nothing to lose. It’s true it can, sometimes, be a little laborious and frustrating when learning new pieces; the MD is pushing hard to squeeze every little nuance and emotion from you and you don’t understand why you can’t just sing . However, a little perseverance, patience and understanding reaps the rewards when singing in front of an appreciative audience.

You may even be able to perform at the Royal Albert Hall – now that’s something worth working for!

Spare a little time on a Thursday evening between 6.30 and 8.30 at Palmer Morewood Memorial Club, Hall Street, Alfreton for a hearty sing and, if inclined, retire to the bar for a little refreshment and fellowship.