Open Community Singing Group - a choir for all

★★★★★

“I find these community singing sessions for two hours on a Thursday evening sets me right for the next week - stressors vanish from my thoughts, we laugh a lot and Song Leader, Penny Stone, introduces us to some wonderful songs, rounds, 2 or 3 part harmonies and ditties from across the world as well as her own song-writing repertoire. I am continually amazed at how quickly we learn from her brilliant teaching. Highly recommended.”

★★★★★

“A friendly, lively, good-humoured way to find your voice. I like the fact that the group is not divided into rigid categories of bass, tenor, alto and soprano: instead Penny sings different parts and invites you to take whichever feels right for you. It's liberating and exciting to be able to try different possibilities. The range of music is wonderfully varied: from The Mamas and the Papas to African chant; from the mystical peace of Julian of Norwich to Sami reindeer herding "yoiks". And Penny's reminders that "If you sing something different, nothing bad is going to happen" are a valuable life lesson in themselves!”

★★★★★

“I always wanted to sing, but wasn't allowed to join the choir at primary school - so obviously that put me off ever asking again! I think it was more because they insisted I play the recorder, however as a child it seems there are always plenty of people to tell you you can't sing! What a wonderful thing to find a group with a great song leader who is just focused on enabling and allowing me to find my voice and let go of the negative judgements from childhood. We are encouraged to try different parts and learn to let our voices just be. Also helpful tips on how to hit high notes and low notes, so I've discovered I can expand my vocal range. There's no music to be read, just learning through natural call and response. I've really loved the freedom to try different parts and the sense of community, wellbeing and connection that comes from achieving beautiful harmonies with my fellow singers. It's a great place!”