I joined the Reading A440 Choir in September 2023 having moved to the Reading area from Cornwall in July to be nearer to family. I sang in a Ladies Choir in Cornwall and was determined to join a new choir when I arrived at my new home.
I searched on the internet for choirs in the area and tried out a couple. From the very first time I walked in the door at A440 I found a very warm and friendly group of ladies and gents who were very kind and helpful to this ‘Stranger from the South West’. I didn’t know anyone there on my first evening although by the end of the session I felt I had found the beginnings of new friendships and a group that felt like a ‘family’.
I had no real experience of singing with a mixed choir before, so I was a little nervous to say the least when I started, but I must say that being a part of A440 is the most exciting and exhilarating experience for me and far exceeds my expectations. I was made to feel very welcome from the start and now I feel like I’ve been there much longer than I have.
The repertoire we sing is varied and challenging at times but it has given me something to reach for and I actually now “get lost” in the singing. It’s not an easy ride but it is very rewarding to know I am contributing to the overall sound of a great sounding choir. My first concert was in December 2023 at Christ Church, Woodley, and I felt I had really achieved a lot by being able to take part in it.
Our fantastic Musical Director is focused, dedicated and definitely ‘knows his stuff’ but he is also friendly, firm and funny. We are expected to be committed to rehearsals and to learning our words as we sing from memory a lot when performing. Singing ‘off-copy’ actually gives a far better sound as heads are watching the MD rather than looking down at the music which muffles and dumbs down the singing.
I can’t really read music but I learn through the recordings that are made each week. It’s a very good way of learning and I can replay any part of any rehearsals as many times as are needed to get the songs in my head and heart. Singing from the heart is the secret of good singing.
I love this choir and would urge all of those reading this to come along and try us out. We meet on Wednesday evenings at 7.45pm at Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road in Woodley.