choir
info
When and where?
Forte meets Monday's, from 19:30 – 21:30, for a ten week rehearsal period three 'terms' a year. Rehearsal sessions last two hours.
Rehearsal Dates
Our upcoming term begins on 2nd June 2025, through to 11th August, 2025. We recommence rehearsals in September - dates will be published at a later stage.
Rehearsal VENUE
We gather at St. Mary’s Church Hall, located at 50 St Mary's Ave, Purley on Thames, RG8 8TE.
Is there plenty of Parking at St. Mary’s
Yes. There are parking spaces available directly outside the hall.
Costs
For £65 per term, you'll enjoy ten weeks of expertly led two-hour sessions with Derry Pope with PDF scores of the music and access to rehearsal tracks.
Do I have to audition to join the choir?
No. We pride ourselves on being a non-auditioning group, creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
What kind of music do you sing - repertoire
Our musical repertoire is meticulously curated to offer an expansive and diverse listening experience. We pride ourselves on a collection that transcends typical genre boundaries, ensuring a rich tapestry of sound for our audiences. From the compelling narratives of big ballads that defined the 1960s to the electrifying energy of rock hits from the 1970s.
Beyond these iconic decades, our selections also prominently feature beloved show tunes from celebrated musicals, bringing the magic of the stage. We also incorporate classical pieces, adding an element of timeless sophistication . This broad spectrum guarantees that our repertoire truly offers something for every musical palate, reflecting our commitment to versatility and delivering an inclusive, high-quality auditory journey for all.
Do I need any prior experience singing to join?
Definitely not. Forte is open to those who have not sung before, intermediate signings and those who are more experienced; for non-music readers and those with established musical backgrounds. If you have a desire to sing but haven’t found the right fit, Forte offers a welcoming space for you to explore your vocal potential.
What Happens at Forte?
At Forte, we learn songs by rote, carefully pacing ourselves to ensure everyone feels comfortable and engaged. Our choir welcomes members of all experience levels, from those who have never sung in a choir before to seasoned musicians. We foster a harmonious and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
How Do I Get the Music?
Once your membership is approved, you'll receive a Dropbox link to access music scores and rehearsal tracks, including your vocal parts and piano accompaniment.
Performances
We strive to perform at least twice a year, typically in the summer and during the Christmas seasons. Participation in concerts is entirely optional, but most members enjoy the rewarding experience of performing for an audience. Our performances are done without scores, ensuring a captivating and engaging connection with the audience.
Do you offer private singing lessons?
Yes, we are pleased to offer private singing lessons through our esteemed musical director, Derry Pope. Derry operates his private studio in Pangbourne, providing a dedicated and professional environment for vocal development.
With years of experience and a passion for nurturing talent, Derry offers personalised instruction tailored to each student's individual needs and goals. Whether you are a beginner looking to explore your vocal potential or an experienced singer seeking to refine your technique, Derry's expertise can help you achieve your aspirations.
To inquire about lesson availability, pricing, and scheduling, we encourage you to contact Derry directly. He will be happy to discuss your musical background, assess your vocal strengths, and create a customised learning plan to help you reach your full singing potential. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a skilled and dedicated instructor.