Singing: the gift that lasts forever

Looking for a last-minute Christmas gift? Why not introduce someone to singing?

Image generated by Gemini AI

Unlike a box of chocolates or a pair of socks, singing lasts a lifetime.

Keeping the choir inspired while giving audiences their festive fix

I’m sure you’ve noticed that it’s that time of year again —  the time when so many choirs  are busy with Christmas concerts.

But will you be doing the same old Christmas songs that you wheel out year after year? The songs that your audience expects?

Why singers say they’ll come to a concert … and then don’t

House was an American medical drama starring Hugh Laurie as Dr Gregory House.

photo by Ildar Sagdejev

House used to say “Everybody lies.” Not necessarily consciously, but everyone does it — including singers in choirs.

Singing outdoors in the winter: a survival guide

Many choirs perform outdoors during the winter, especially in the run-up to Christmas.

photo by Peter

Here are some tips to help make the experience as pleasurable as possible.

Why getting it wrong is the best way to learn

A couple of things this week reminded me how important mistakes are when learning something new.

photo by N i c o l a

One was performer, song leader and composer Brendan Taaffe’s substack: The most important thing you can do is fail”, and the other was a workshop I attended on Voice, Body and Rhythm with Helen Chadwick and Tania Bosak.

“You’ll enjoy it when you get there” — why growth always feels uncomfortable

I’m attending a three-day workshop this weekend and I’m feeling nervous.

photo by Kathryn Greenhill

It’s a common feeling when stepping into the unknown. But I’ve been to countless workshops before — so what’s going on?

Can people find and contact your choir easily?

There was a choir I needed to contact recently. I knew their name and where they’re based, but I couldn’t find their contact details anywhere online.

Is your choir easy to find and contact?