The de Merc Chamber Choir Website

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The de Merc Chamber Choir is a Registered Charity (number 1095387) and is affiliated to Making Music (the National Federation of Music Societies) which represents and supports amateur vocal and instrumental music groups throughout the United Kingdom. Supported by Harlow Council.
Joining Our Choir

New members aged over 16 are always welcome to join us, whether as a full-time member or   on an occasional basis: either   because you  have  other commitments or because you may be a member of another choir but would like to experience a completely different repertoire or try  singing in a smaller group.

Because of our repertoire and our small forces, it is unlikely that new members will be first-time singers.  We frequently perform one to a part and this obviously necessitates a certain level of musical ability  and the confidence to carry it off. You do not have to be a proficient sight reader although that is always the ideal, but you must be able to read and understand music and  learn it quickly.  You must be prepared to hold your own as a member of a small ensemble particularly as we also usually rehearse a cappella.

We recognise that a small choir like ours may not be suitable for everyone and the best way to see for yourself  is to come along to one of our concerts, making contact with us beforehand if you prefer.  You would also be welcome to participate in one of our weekly rehearsals or join in with us on a trial basis.

Because of our size and the venues we use, we do not require the elaborate staging or sets which can often involve  other choirs in extra chores on the day of the concert.  Similarly, there is no undue pressure  to sell tickets because we normally share the ticket revenue with the concert promoters or perform for a fee.

Most of our music is provided free of charge but members often like to buy their own copies of standard books like the Oxford Book of Madrigals and the ubiquitous Carols for Choirs. Likewise, we keep our subs very low at £20.00 a term or £60.00 a year  (with concessions where appropriate).

We hold rehearsals on most Tuesday evenings throughout the year, including the summer months, between 8 & 10 pm, at St. Mary at Latton Church Hall, The Gowers, First Avenue, Harlow CM20 2JP. If you wish to attend a rehearsal, please telephone our secretary Jane Fox first on 01279 428967.

As well as our musical activities, we hold a number of varied social events throughout the year which involve us all -- singers, partners and families, friends, and audience.

If you do decide to join us, you will be given an audition by the Musical Director after attending a few rehearsals after which the Committee will formally invite you to become a member.

For further information about joining us, please contact Adrian Jolliffe, our Musical Director  on  07763 183 252 or  our Secretary, Jane Fox, on 01279 428967 or jfoxsrn@ntlworld.com