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Singing for pleasure is something that you can do on your own, as part
of a small group, or as a member of a larger choir or of a group
performing musicals or opera.
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The
range of types of music you can sing is enormous, from pop to classical,
and jazz to different ethnic traditions.
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You can accompany yourself
on a piano, keyboard or guitar (see playing
musical instruments), or have other musicians to accompany you and
others.
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Some people and
groups just sing for their own pleasure. Others work towards
performances and/or competitions and exams.
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British Choirs on the Net www.rodcuff.demon.co.uk/choirs/
National Federation of Music Societies www.nfms.org.uk/
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We have not managed to identify any magazines dealing specially with amateur
singing. But the organisations opposite may be able to help. |
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Find a local choir or
singing group
or club (see organisations above).
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Take a class or course at your local
adult education centre or see if your local choir has introductory
sessions.
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Consult books or magazines
on different types of singing and music.
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Check in your local library/paper
or education centre for more information.
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Skills and people
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Almost everyone has the ability to sing, but some skills in
controlling and using the voice need to be learnt. Most groups of singers have people from
a wide range of ages, and both sexes, in them.
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You can sing at home on your own, but many people like to join a group
of other singers and instrument players so that they can sing a wider
range of pieces.
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Amateur singers normally welcome new members,
but in the more serious groups you may have to sing (audition) for the
organisers so that they know what your voice is like.
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Obviously you
need to choose a group that sings the type of music you like, and it is
better if the other singers are of roughly the same standard and have the
same degree of commitment as you have.
Equipment or clothing
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The songs you sing are the main essential; these may be in the
form of a musical score or a tape or disk from which to learn.
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No
special clothing is needed for most groups. But a few, like church
choirs, who do regular performances, may have some kind of uniform for
these special events.
A place or facilities
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You can sing anywhere and groups may meet in people's homes, in the
local village or community hall, or in schools and colleges.
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The
essential is a room large enough to take the group and with an acoustic
that make music making possible.
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