Auditions for young choristers

Fancy singing in a church choir? If you are at school in Years 3 to 8, then St Nics has something to offer

St Nicolas' Church Choir will be holding singing auditions for children in School Years 3 to 8 who would like to join the choir. They will take place on Friday, February 11.

The director of music, Sarah Cope, is looking forward to a rewarding time hearing prospective singers.

“Becoming a chorister is a great opportunity for a musically-talented child, as singing in a choir is an excellent way to help develop aural and sight-reading skills as well as learning basic music theory,” she said.

“I am keen to attract boys and girls from the local community.

“I don't expect their voices to be fully trained, but a child should have a ‘good ear' and a desire to be part of the team.”

The choristers rehearse on Fridays and sing on six to seven Sundays during term-time and they benefit greatly from this – both musically and in their all-round education.

They sing choral church services, take part in civic events, and sing at special services and events in St Nicolas' Church.

Choristers also work towards the Royal School of Church Music ribbon awards (Voice for Life Training Scheme). They also have the opportunity to augment their pocket money by singing at weddings.

There will be a workshop for would-be choristers on Friday, February 4, between 5pm and 6pm.

“The workshop gives children the opportunity to discover what the auditions will be like. We take them through the various elements including vocal range exercises, picking out notes in chords, clapping a rhythm, singing back a melodic phrase and sight reading.

“Parents are warmly encouraged to observe and there is also the opportunity to ask questions.”

For further information email: musicdirector@st-nicolas-newbury.org call 01635 47018 or visit the church website http://www.st-nicolas-newbury.org/music-choir.htm