Joining Ealing Choral Society: Frequently Asked Questions
New prospective members are always welcome but please do contact our Membership Secretary before coming to a rehearsal.
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How many people sing in the choir?
We currently have approximately 90 members, comprising 40 sopranos, 30 altos, and 20 tenors and basses.
What is the age range?
We are very fortunate in having a wide age range in membership. We accept members from 16 years of age and some of our members are over 80. Many of our members joined at a young age and some have given over 40 years’ service to the choir.
When and where are the rehearsals?
We rehearse on Monday evenings (from 7.35 pm to 9.45 pm) at Ealing Green Church Hall, Ealing Green. This is a modern well-appointed hall, within walking distance of both Ealing Broadway and South Ealing Stations and is on the 65 bus route. In concert week, we may have an extra rehearsal during the week. On the day of a concert we rehearse in the afternoon with the orchestra and soloists.
Do I need to attend rehearsals every week?
Regular attendance at rehearsals enables our members to perform at a high standard. Therefore members should aim to miss no more than 2 rehearsals in any term. If that presents a difficulty they should contact the membership secretary to see how they can be accommodated.
How can I practise at home?
We provide our members with MIDI/MP3 practice files (with voice parts emphasised) and recordings of works for private practice.
Where can I park my car for rehearsals?
You can park free from 7.30pm in Grange Road and from 6.30pm in areas of Bond Street. There is also an NCP car park in the Ealing Broadway centre. See map below.
Are there any vacancies?
We are always keen to welcome new members in all voice parts.
How many concerts are there a year?
We hold three concerts a year (typically in November, March and June) as well as a Carol Concert in December. We also take part in local community events.
Where does the choir perform?
St Barnabas Church in Pitshanger Lane, Ealing is our most usual venue. We also give concerts each year in other concert halls and churches around London, including the Cadogan Hall.
Who are the music staff?
Our Director of Music is Peter Asprey. Our accompanist is Charles Economou.
Who runs the choir?
The choir is run by a committee of elected members in consultation with the Director of Music.
What type of music does the choir sing?
We sing both sacred and secular choral music, as well as contemporary and commissioned works. See our Previous Concerts for more details.
How good are the orchestras and soloists?
We always use professional musicians and soloists for each concert
Are most members music teachers or professional musicians?
Not at all, our members come from all walks of life. Our uniting interest is an enjoyment of singing and the reward of being part of a great team.
How good a singer do I need to be?
You do need to be able to sing in tune and read a musical score. It is an advantage if you have sight-reading abilities. The main requirement is your commitment to learn and perform the works to a high standard and your commitment to belonging to the choir and performing in our concerts. Please feel free to come along to a rehearsal to get a feel for the music and the choir. After two or three weeks, if you would like to join you will be invited for a voice test.
Do I need to have a voice test?
The voice test gives the opportunity for the Director of Music to meet you and, of course, to hear you sing. The Director of Music will make sure your range is right for the voice section you wish to join, and will listen out to some technical aspects (such as tone, tuning, diction and breath control) and to your musicality. It will last about 5-10 minutes and include a warm-up, sight reading and singing a short prepared piece of your choosing, something you know well which you can sing out confidently. You can choose something from the choral or the solo repertoire. If you are unsure what to choose please ask the Membership Secretary for advice.
As members of Ealing Choral Society, we are all improving and learning new techniques and repertoire, so don’t be worried if the voice test has elements of a coaching session. We also have regular workshops on musical techniques and several members take advantage of our database of singing teachers.
How often do I need to take a voice test?
Every four years, but in a group format.
Do I need to live in Ealing?
No, so long as you can get here to rehearse! We have members from all parts of West London (Ealing, Acton, Hanwell, Greenford, Chiswick, Brentford, Kew, Southall) as well as others from further afield.
What is the subscription?
Subscription for the 2023-2024 season is £198 (£150 concessionary). For members under 30 years of age, the subscription is £90. We can also provide free membership for young people aged 16 to 23, through our bursary fund
We are currently offering a 50% reduced subscription to new tenors and basses for the first 2 years of membership.
Do I need to buy the scores for the works performed at each concert?
No, we loan members the scores. There is usually a small hire charge for this.
Are there activities other than concerts?
Yes, there is a lively social events programme for all choir members, their family and friends, including a quiz night. There is also the opportunity to socialise after each rehearsal.
Can I join as a non-singing member?
Yes, you can become an Associate.
Are there overseas visits?
Yes, we have visited and exchanged with choirs in France, Germany, Holland and Ireland. Most recently, in June 2017, we toured to Valletta in Malta.
How do I join?
Complete our Choir Membership Application for details.