Croesyceiliog Male Choir – New Starters Guide

• WHEN IS PRACTICE?

7-9pm every Monday at Croesyceiliog Cricket & Rugby Club, The Highway, NP44 2HJ

• DO I NEED TO BRING ANYTHING?

Enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, a folder for your music, and a pen or pencil for noting your music. Also £1 for the weekly fundraising raffle.

• DO I NEED TO BE ABLE TO READ MUSIC?

No, although it helps to have some knowledge, it isn’t necessary.

• WHAT IF I DON’T KNOW WHAT MY VOICE RANGE IS?

Our musical team will be able to assess your range after a few practice sessions and then place you into the appropriate section.

• WHAT KIND OF SONGS DOES THE CHOIR SING?

We sing a range of numbers, from traditional male voice choir hymns, to songs from the musicals.

• WHERE DO I GET THE MUSIC FROM?

We have our own digital library which has copies of the music sheets we use and audio files for the voice parts for all our songs. This is especially useful for practising outside of official Monday practice.

• HOW OFTEN DOES THE CHOIR PERFORM?

We strive to organise around 10-12 concerts each year, with plenty of advance notice given.

• IS THERE A DRESS CODE?

Yes, we all wear a specific suit which is organised through Slaters in Cardiff and costs £108 (at the time of writing). Ties, pocket handkerchiefs and badges are provided.

• HOW DO WE TRAVEL TO AND FROM CONCERTS?

You are responsible for your own travel for local concerts. For concerts further afield, coach transport is provided, which is subsidised by choir funds, but can mean a contribution is necessary.

• WHAT ABOUT ACCOMODATION FOR CONCERST FURTHER AFIELD?

Where possible, accommodation costs will be met by choir funds, but if this is not possible, choristers are required to pay for their own accommodation. Costs are always detailed in good time to enable choristers to decide if they are able to attend.

• WHAT IS AN AFTERGLOW?

An afterglow is a post-concert event, involving impromptu singing, a buffet and drinks. This is usually attended by other artistes or choirs performing in the concert.

• DOES IT COST TO JOIN THE CHOIR?

There is no joining fee, but we do ask for an annual subscription of £170 to help pay for the upkeep of the choir. Each member is also required to become a member of Croesyceiliog Rugby and Cricket Club as the venue allow us to practice in the function room. The cost is £8 for OAPs and £15 for non OAPs. Many members of the choir enjoy a refreshing drink after practice each week.