Huddersfield Men's Voices is recruiting! We are always on the lookout for new members but now more than ever we want to increase our numbers. We are actively looking to recruit experienced Tenors, Baritones and Basses, but our upcoming “You Can Sing!” workshop and taster sessions will also appeal to those who want to make their first journey into the world of music.
If you are interested in joining, you are welcome to come along to one of our rehearsals. After a few weeks, you will undertake a short voice test to determine which section your voice suits best.
Rehearsals take place at Lindley Methodist Church every Tuesday from 7:30pm - 9:30pm.
We have completely "open rehearsals" so feel free simply to drop in and meet us, but if you'd like to make contact beforehand for a friendly chat about what to expect, simply email us at huddsmvpromo@gmail.com or call Dave on 07815798905.
Still not sure? Take a read of our frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most Frequently Asked Questions about Huddersfield Men's Voices.
So what kind of a choir am I joining?
We are a choir singing music written or arranged for Male Voices. Although we have our origins in a traditional Male Voice Choir, we believe it is time to move on from that tradition and explore a more diverse repertoire including more popular songs. We sing in a number of different settings, from formal concerts, to less formal events such as our recent VE Day slot at community events. We also sing in nursing homes where we can bring the joy of music to those who would otherwise be unable to come an hear us. We have even been known to busk for charity, and we've got a great Christmas season of carol singing in pubs and other venues to entertain a wider audience and raise funds.
What are "Male Voices"?
Our music is specially arranged for four male voices (or sections) - First Tenor, Second Tenor, Baritone and Bass. We sing in close harmony, that is to say generally one section will sing the melody or main tune of the piece, and the other sections will be singing a supporting harmony. This means that each section learns a different part of the song. The tenors sing the higher parts, the second tenors and baritones add more subtle harmonies and the basses sing the deeper, richer harmonies underneath.
What sort of music will I be singing?
We are moving away from a repertoire consisting only of the more traditional pieces, wonderful though many of them are. Choirs and their audiences want to hear more upbeat and entertaining music. Huddersfield Men's Voices have got a huge library of available music arranged for Male Voice. In our 75 years we have been in the fabulous position of having a succession of Musical Directors and other patrons who have arranged pieces of music for us. Our repertoire has evolved with us and now you'll find us singing classical songs, songs from the shows, musical theatre, opera, popular songs, even favourites from the sporting stadium.
Sounds good! Do I have to be an experienced singer to join?
Not at all! All we ask is that you can hold a basic tune. We'll do the rest. Come along to any of our rehearsals on a Tuesday Evening at Lindley Methodist Church Centre at 7.30pm and have a chat with us. You can get to know us and see how we go about learning and rehearsing. If you decide you'd like to have a go we'll give you a very, very simple voice test which is simply there to determine your range and appropriate section. We'll then sit you with a mentor/experienced singer who'll help you and support you through the learning process. Trust us, this is not as intimidating as it sounds!
What if I already sing and can read music?
You'd be more than welcome. Many members of our choir sing in other choirs, societies and groups. You'll find Huddersfield Men's Voices to be that fantastic balance between the formal and the informal choirs we all love. The music can be challenging at times, but our learning and rehearsal ethos is not intimidating or overly demanding. We're also a friendly bunch with a simple, common love of music and singing.
Come along and see whether you are due a change of pace or direction!
Do I have to be able to read music?
No, it isn't compulsory, and you are not alone! It helps if you have a rudimentary understanding of how a musical score works, but you'll be paired up with someone who will talk you through it. We have compiled a musical Rehearsal Library and you'll find it in the Member's section of our website once we sign you up. There you will find links to YouTube videos of our current repertoire. It's divided into parts, so you can pop on your headphones, click on the Baritone part of "The Rose" or the Tenor part of "Nessun Dorma" or even the Bass part of "I Dreamed a Dream" and sing along in the comfort of your own home. You'll hear an actual voice singing your part so you can learn it note by note.
We also have a series of YouTube music theory tutorials based on ABRSM Grade One which you are encouraged to view, and you may even be inspired to pick up a new life-skill!
How much does it cost to be a member?
Membership to our choir costs £120 per year. This contribution helps us provide essential materials and equipment, pays the fees for our Music Professionals and the hire of a welcoming space to rehearse and perform regularly. Before committing, you will be invited to join a few of our rehearsals to get a feel for the group and see if it's the right fit for you.
There are concessions for students and flexible payment schemes for those whose budget doesn't stretch to a one-off payment.