Frequently Asked Questions

Where and when do you rehearse?
At Chafyn Grove school in Bourne Avenue Salisbury, Thursdays from 7.15pm to 9.15pm.

Do I have to audition?
No, anyone can come and sing.

What happens at a typical rehearsal?
Everyone signs in at the door. We practise a variety of music. There is always a break in the middle with notices and time to chat.

How much is the subscription?
This varies depending on when in the year you join. The annual subscription at present is £170.

I’ve never sung in a choir before, will I be able to cope?
Salisbury Community choir exists for people like you. You will be surprised how quickly you will pick things up and don’t be afraid to ask if you’re unsure of anything.

What kind of music do you sing?
All sorts! From Abba to Mozart to specially commissioned works.

Where do concerts take place?
Usually in various local churches. For special concerts we have sung in Salisbury and Winchester cathedrals and further afield. We hope to be singing in Salisbury City Hall.

What do you wear to concerts?
The ladies wear long black skirts or trousers and long-sleeved black tops and a blue choir scarf. The men wear a royal blue shirt and black trousers. The choir scarves and shirts are available to buy from the choir, you will also need a black choir music folder. Ask a Committee member about the scarves, shirts and folders.

Do I have to buy the music?
All new music for the year is included in the annual subscription but as a new member you will have to buy some music books the choir uses regularly and items the choir may have sung in previous years.

I can’t read music very well, is this a problem?
Not at all, as there will be people to help you. There is also help available in the members section of the website for those who would like to learn more.

Do I have to come to every rehearsal?
We understand it’s not always possible to come every week, but if you want to sing in a concert, you have to attend enough rehearsals to be fully prepared, including the rehearsal on the day of the concert.

What will happen at my first rehearsal?
You will be met by our Membership secretary who will take your details and explain how you join. You can attend up to three rehearsals for free, to find out if you enjoy singing with us. You will receive a welcome sheet with additional information and a member of the choir in your voice part will be asked to look after you. You will sit next to them and they can answer any more questions you may have. There are some additional packs of music available for new members to use during the rehearsal.

How do I join?
You fill in the membership forms you have been given and arrange payment. Then give or send the form to the Membership secretary, when you will be given a New Members Pack containing further information.

Where can I park at Chafyn Grove?
You can park in Bourne Avenue and in the first car park at the lower end of the school, but not in the inner car park next to the tennis courts.