Member Info

We are a 60 strong community based choir of men and women who share a commitment to working together to make great choral music accessible to all. We generally do two major concerts each year, as well as participating in various city and community events.

Our season runs from September until May/June, with a short break about in January.  Rehearsals are usually on Sunday 7.30-9.30pm in St. Patrick’s Band Hall, beside Galway Railway Station. They continue on most Sundays (or Mondays of Bank Holiday weekends) – extra rehearsals are sometimes called before major concerts.

Joining the choir

New members are welcomed in September and January / February each year.

Prospective members are granted a trial period, attending three rehearsals before deciding whether the choir is for them. We generally ask that members commit to joining the choir for a year.

A short voice-range test for newcomers is arranged before joining. This is conducted in private and lasts no more than 10 minutes. It is helpful – but not essential - to have one verse of a song prepared. To book a time for this, email admin@galwaychoral.ie.

Ability to read music, while an advantage, is definitely not necessary – various learning-tools are provided and with work and dedication, anything is possible.

Fees

Annual choir fees are €200 full and €150 concession, and are payable during the first term. For some works (one in our current programme) scores may also need to be purchased – average cost is around €10.

Uniform

Our performance uniform: long sleeved black tops, full length skirts or tailored trousers for ladies, and black suit with a white shirt for gentlemen. Red ties for ladies are provided by the choir, and should be returned immediately after each performance.

Punctuality and commitment

While rehearsal and performance are rewarding and fun, it is essential that all choir members assemble in time to start rehearsals at 7.30pm SHARP. Our director spends the first 10 minutes doing essential vocal and breathing exercises. Members who miss a significant number of practices may not be allowed to perform, so please ensure that you attend regularly. Plenty of notice is given if extra rehearsals are required just before a performance.

Home practice

Youtube links and other resource material will be available. It is vital that you take a little time between rehearsals to familiarise yourself with work covered each week. Our musical director is available to help with sections which are giving you problems.

Choral singing and being part of a group like ours is a great pleasure. This will be greatly enhanced when all members take responsibility and strive to create as beautiful a sound as possible.

Enjoy!