We are currently on the lookout for new members, and we'd love you to join us. You may have some questions that we can answer before you make your mind up though. Here are the most Frequently Asked Questions about Gledholt Male Voice Choir, or call Richard on 07947458434
So what is a Male Voice Choir?
Male voice choirs have a long history in the UK, with various lines of origin. We tend to associate them with Wales and mining communities, with choirs springing up around mining towns and villages, often centred on individual pits or chapels. It's not all about Welsh miners though, as the industrial revolution brought with it the inextricably linked flourishing of Methodism, and so Male Voice Choirs can trace at least part of their heritage back to Cornwall, and the consequent spread into all parts of the UK along with Wesley's message. No surprise then that a town like Huddersfield with its industrial heritage boasts several Male Voice Choirs.
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.
Is it all about hymns?
That's where it all started. Many of the most famous and favourite pieces of music you'll hear from Male Voice Choirs are those Wesleyan Hymns from the 18th Century. There's no doubt that a good rendition of Gwahoddiad or Morte Christe will raise the hairs on the back of any neck, BUT there's no shortage of secular pieces, madrigals, ballads and so on to go at. Here at Gledholt we've 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 Gledholt 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, and our current Musical Director always has a new musical theory tip at every rehearsal. BUT. 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 streaming MP3 files of most 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.
Music Literacy Initiative
Our recently launched Music Literacy Initiative will teach you the basics of reading music. A series of videos are available, based on the ABRSM Grade One Music Theory course. They will show you how to interpret a written musical score, and show you how this is especially relevant for Male Voice Choirs.
We are always looking for new members to enjoy the wonderful benefits of singing. No prior experience of singing nor ability to read music is necessary.
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, or if you'd like to make contact beforehand, simply email us at
gmvcsecretary@gmail.com
