Membership

FAQ's about Ayr Choral Union

How do I join the choir?  Contact us through our website www.ayrchoralunion.net or by emailing secretary@ayrchoralunion.net

When do you rehearse?

Rehearsals are held on Tuesdays 19:30 – 21:30 from the end of August to the end of March. There are also two additional rehearsals on a concert weekend and the occasional extra rehearsal.

Where are rehearsals? We rehearse at Ayr Grammar School, Fort St., Ayr, KA7 1HU

Are there Auditions? No. Ayr Choral is a non-auditioned choir – everyone is welcome to give us a try!

Is there support for new members? We have Section Reps for each voice section who will meet you and pair you up with a “buddy” through the early rehearsals if required.

Can I just turn up on a Tuesday night?  Anyone is welcome to sit in at a rehearsal, but it’s best to let our Secretary know that you are coming along, so that we can plan music etc.

What experience do I need?  None. We’re open to all levels of singers from complete novices to those with many years experience.  A willingness to give it a try and to do your homework are more important!

Do I have to read music?  Not at all. It helps, but through rehearsal and listening you can participate fully and learn the music without being able to read the notes. We provide plenty of listening aids for those who don’t read and there are always confident singers in your section that you can tune in to!

Are there age restrictions? Under 16s need to be accompanied by a singing or non-singing adult.

What kind of music do you sing? A wide range of classical repertoire from the medieval to the modern both sacred and secular. Take a look at our Past Concerts on the website!

Do you always sing in English? Not always – recently we have sung in Latin, German, French and Spanish – but with lots of help on pronunciation!

When is the best time to join? Our ‘new year’ begins in August but you’re welcome to join at any time, preferably when rehearsals for a new concert start – e.g. end of October or beginning of January are good.

Do I need a computer and online access? Not necessarily - although it was an invaluable life-line for the choir during lockdown. The learning aids we provide are all internet based and a lot of our administration will be done via the members section of this website”.

What social media do you use? We have a public website.

How many concerts do you sing?  We have 3 formal concerts a year in October, December and March, usually in Ayr Town Hall. We take part in informal carol singing during December and usually give a concert away from home in May - venues for these have included St Giles’ Cathedral, Glasgow Cathedral and Paisley Abbey.

Do I have to sing in every concert?  No, this is up to you when you join.  You can attend rehearsals just for the enjoyment of singing without feeling you must sing in the concerts. If you are unable or don’t wish to sing in a concert, or have missed too many rehearsals, you will be asked to let us know asap.