Ashtead Singers
If you are interested in joining us, here's a bit more information about the choir ...
We try to sing about 3 or 4 times a year, with a six week rehearsal period before each event. Over the years we've found this format works well, and allows our members to sing with other choirs if they wish (or just generally get on with their lives!). So we don't rehearse each week, but when we do, the learning process is short. And sometimes challenging! It helps if you are an existing choral singer, with reasonable musical understanding. We don't though run formal auditions. Our preference is for you to come along to rehearsals, and see how you feel about the group, the music, and the general spirit of the choir. After the first series of rehearsals we will then see whether the voice is a good fit for the choir. We have an annual subscription fee to cover rehearsal costs and music hire. But a new member would not be expected to contribute until they have been invited to join after the initial try-out period. When we sing in the cathedrals, it is often a weekend commitment as we are usually required for Saturday evensong as well as two or three services on the Sunday. This also means we have time to enjoy each others’ company over a good meal. We rehearse at St Mary's Church in Leatherhead on a Tuesday evening from 8pm for two hours.
All age groups are welcome, as are all singing parts. If you're not sure, you are very welcome to come along anyway and give us a try. You'll find us very welcoming. One last point; while we often sing Cathedral services, we are not a church choir. You do not have to be a regular church goer, or be a member of any particular faith. You just need to want to sing great music in magnificent surroundings!
Even more information can be obtained by emailing the Secretary