The fat lady sings ...

"I was apprehensive about joining the Addison Group of Singers, as I had never been in a choir before. All kinds of questions were running through my mind - would I have to undergo an audition? Were all the other members professional singers? Would I have to be able to read music? Was the choir made up of youngsters or old-timers!? Would the other choristers be friendly? Would I fit in? Despite my reservations I took the plunge and, in September 2003, fulfilled a lifelong ambition to sing, performing in my first concert in December with the Oratorio Choir.

My initial fears were unfounded. There was no audition - you just need a good ear for music. It did not matter that I could not read music as, for a small fee, a CD recording of each singing part can be purchased. There is a mixed age range from mid-20s to mid-60s, both male and female, some of who like to lubricate their vocal chords in the local pub after rehearsals! And I have joined them and found a new group of friends.

So, whether you have aspirations of becoming a professional singer, have a serious interest in amateur singing or simply want to sound more tuneful in the shower, then I can highly recommend that you join the Addison Group of Singers."