Do I need to be a good singer to join?
No. Joy Choir doesn't audition, and there are no solos expected of anyone. Some of our members trained musically for years; others haven't sung since school. Everyone learns their part together in rehearsal — you don't need to be able to read music, and you won't be asked to sing alone.
How do I try Joy Choir before committing?
Book a free taster session and come along to a rehearsal — no obligation, no payment, just turn up and sing. If you love it (most people do), we'll talk you through becoming a member afterwards.
Do I need to read music?
Not at all. Parts are taught by ear in rehearsal, so you can join in fully whether or not you've ever read a note.
How much does membership cost?
There are two membership options:
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Choir Membership — £30.75/month, which covers weekly rehearsals, performance opportunities, guest workshops and full Members' Area access.
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Singer's Membership — £50.90/month, which includes everything above plus a 40-minute one-to-one singing lesson every month, tailored to you — choir repertoire, technique, confidence, or exploring other styles, with flexible weekday, evening and weekend slots.
Do I have to perform at every gig?
No — performances are completely optional. Throughout the year we perform at local events including our annual Christmas Concert "Joy to the World" at Leeds Minster, the Mrs Sunderland Choir Festival, and community events like farmers' markets and carnivals. Taking part is always up to you, and you can get a Joy Choir uniform whenever you're ready. See what's coming up on our Gigs page.
I'd be coming on my own — will I make friends?
Most of our members started out exactly this way. Singing in parts means you're always working closely with the people around you, and rehearsals are as much a social evening as a musical one. New faces are made to feel welcome from the first taster session.
I have a health condition that affects my breathing — can I still sing?
Many of our members manage conditions like asthma and sing very happily. Singing itself often supports good breath control, and rehearsals are relaxed with regular breaks. If you have any concerns, mention them at your taster session so we can make sure you're comfortable.
Where and when do you rehearse?
We rehearse on a Monday weekly in Rawdon, Leeds, during term-time.
What happens if I miss a rehearsal?
Your membership continues as normal — as a small business, our costs stay the same whether or not you're in the room. If you can't make your usual session, you can catch up by watching the live stream or practising at home with your tracks until you're back with us.
What makes Joy Choir different from other choirs?
We're much more than a call-and-response choir. Rather than just repeating lines back, you'll actually learn how to sing — proper breathing, technique and confidence-building are woven into every rehearsal, not left as an afterthought. Many members find their voice grows stronger and steadier over their first few terms, alongside the fun of the music itself.
Can I bring a friend along?
Of course — friends are always welcome. Ask them to book their own free taster session so we know to expect them.
What kind of songs do you sing?
Uplifting, contemporary songs, arranged especially for the choir by our director, Libby Harborne, so every section — high, low and in between — gets a part that's rewarding to sing. Check out our Spotify here
Can singing in a choir really help with stress?
Yes. Group singing has been shown to lower stress hormones and lift mood, and singing alongside others builds a sense of connection and belonging. Many of our members treat rehearsal as their weekly reset — a couple of hours to switch off and leave the week at the door.
What if I'm not very confident with computers or apps?
That's absolutely fine. The Members Area is there for convenience — for lyrics sheets, rehearsal tracks and diary dates — but you're never dependent on it to take part. Just ask at rehearsal and we'll help you find what you need, or print it for you.
What am I waiting for?
No auditions, no solos, no pressure — just contemporary songs, warm arrangements written specifically for us, guest directors and workshops throughout the year, and a founder-director, Libby Harborne, who trained at Leeds Conservatoire and has 15 years' vocal coaching experience leading choirs across Yorkshire, London and Hong Kong.
Joy Choir has been building a friendly, inclusive community in Rawdon since 2018 — one that carries on past rehearsal, with regular socials and a WhatsApp Community to stay in touch.