Join The Bluecoat Singers
In case you’re thinking of joining the fun, we’ve created a handy list of Frequently Asked Questions that we hope will tell you all you need to know about becoming a member of The Bluecoat Singers.
Who can join The Bluecoat Singers?
Although we are particularly keen to recruit a few more men, our choir is open to all singers over the age of 18. All we ask for in new members is a willingness to throw yourself into a new and exciting world of live music.
Do I need to be able to read music?
Whilst the ability to read music is a help, it’s not essential when joining us. Just bring your enthusiasm!
We sing in harmony and rehearsal recordings are produced to help you learn your part.
Where do The Bluecoat Singers rehearse?
Our choir meets every Thursday from 7:30-9:30pm at the Temple Community Centre in Nuthall with our ‘season’ running from September each year until the end of June.
There is a tea break in the middle of each rehearsal so our singers can have a cuppa and a catch up!
How much does it cost?
Members of The Bluecoat Singers pay an annual fee of just £80 per person, welcome as cash or a BACs payment, once a year or instalments if preferred.
Will I need to audition?
There is currently no audition process for joining The Bluecoat Singers.
Do I need to be able to drive to concerts?
Most of our concerts are local to Nottingham and our members drive or ‘car-share’. If we need to travel further afield, we have access to a mini-bus.
Will I need to buy a uniform?
When we take to the stage for a concert, the men wear dinner jackets and the ladies wear either long, black dresses or tops and trousers.
We add a blue “highlight” in a nod to our name and to create a uniform look overall. This takes the form of a blue brooch or scarf for the women in the choir and a blue bow tie for the men.
We use music when we perform, so a themed concert folder is provided to all of our singers.
How often will I get the chance to perform?
If you’re looking for a place to show off your creative talents, we’ve got all the support and performance opportunities you need.
We hold 3-4 concerts a year, as well as a carol concert at Christmas, plus we regularly perform at local events. We also give our singers a chance to show off other skills – for example, if you play an instrument, there may be opportunities to accompany soloists or ensembles.
Who knows, you could be the next star of the show!
What kind of songs do The Bluecoat Singers perform?
Our repertoire spans the genres and the decades. We sing a little bit of everything, from gospel to pop, folk to musical theatre.
Some examples of our current repertoire are: ‘Bridge over troubled waters’; The Cantique de Jean Racin, Elgar’s ‘As Torrents’ and ‘Razzle Dazzle’ from Chicago.
You can see and hear us in action here.
