26/05/2026
If you are looking for a new activity that increases your brain chemicals, creates strong social bonds, boosts your immune system, improves your breathing and posture and general well-being without having to put on active wear, singing in a choir could be for you.
There are many different singing groups and styles around, some cater to experienced singers and some open to all , so you might want to try a couple until you find a choir that suits you. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about joining a choir and a list of some of our local Shoalhaven choirs that are looking for new members .
Do I have to be able to read music?
No. Although most choirs provide you with sheet music, you can learn by listening and repetition. Some people prefer just a sheet with the words of the song to help with learning. Even if you can't read music fluently, as you spend more time at choir, you will learn to follow along , noticing when the notes go up and down and learn some of the symbols such as rests ( when you don't sing) and repeats , so it is worthwhile to use the sheet music.
How do I know which part to sing?
The choir director will help you find your place in the choir. Some rounds and songs are sung in unison ( everyone singing the same tune ) or have equal parts so the director will put you into groups. For songs in 3 or 4 part harmony, the highest voices are soprano, then alto, followed by the tenors and the lowest part is for the basses. Tenor and bass parts are often sung by men, but it really depends on the make-up of the choir and the range of your voice.
I've been told I am not a good singer , can I still join a choir?
Unfortunately I often hear people say that a teacher or a family member told them "you can’t sing " or "you're tone deaf". These put downs are powerful and often make people feel fearful or embarrassed about singing. So please don’t be discouraged if this has happened to you. Everyone can improve their skills through learning and practicing. Singing in a choir is not about having a beautiful voice or being a highly skilled musician, it's about blending in with all the voices around you and creating a sound that is much more than the sum of its parts.
