Cirencester Male Voice Choir is a well-regarded male voice choir based in the historic market town in Gloucestershire. Known for its rich choral tradition, the choir has become part of the local community and the broader choral music scene.
The choir’s initial formation was made up of local men who came together to sing for enjoyment and to raise money for local causes. Over time, it grew in size and reputation, becoming a key part of the town’s musical life. Since its founding, the choir has built a name for its performances, strong community ties, and commitment to charitable causes.
Musical Repertoire
Cirencester Male Voice Choir’s repertoire is diverse, reflecting the broad spectrum of traditional and modern male voice choir music. They perform a variety of styles, including the traditional, classical, popular and folk songs.
Reputation and Performances
Cirencester Male Voice Choir is known for its engaging performances and its ability to connect with audiences, whether in concert halls, at festivals, or in local community events. The choir has performed in a range of settings:
- Charity Concerts: The choir is deeply involved in supporting charitable causes, and its concerts often raise funds for local and national charities.
- Festivals and Competitions: The choir regularly participates in local, regional, and national choral festivals and competitions, where it has earned recognition for its strong vocal technique and harmonious sound.
- Concerts and Performances: They have a busy performance schedule, regularly performing in and around Cirencester and Gloucestershire, as well as in other parts of the UK.
- Community Engagement: Beyond formal concerts, the choir is also engaged in community events in Cirencester and the surrounding areas, adding to its role as a central part of local cultural life.
Choir Membership
The choir is open to men of all ages and like many male voice choirs, Cirencester Male Voice Choir offers a strong sense of camaraderie, with members forming lasting friendships as they rehearse and perform together. The choir is non-auditioned, meaning that anyone with a passion for singing and a commitment to the group can join.
The choir prides itself on offering a welcoming and inclusive environment for its members. Whether you’re an experienced singer or a newcomer, the choir provides opportunities to develop vocal skills under the guidance of experienced conductors.
Conductor and Musical Direction
The choir’s musical direction plays a significant role in its success. Under the direction of acclaimed concert pianist James Willshire and accompanist Louise Matley they have refined their sound and develop a versatile and powerful choral performance.
Choir’s Community Impact
One of the key elements of Cirencester Male Voice Choir’s success is its strong connection to the local community. Beyond its musical achievements, the choir is known for its charitable work and dedication to supporting local causes. It often collaborates with local organizations, and its concerts raise significant funds for various charities.
In addition to its charitable contributions, the choir helps to keep alive the tradition of male voice choral music in Gloucestershire and beyond, fostering an appreciation for this unique musical form.
Recent Activities and Future
Cirencester Male Voice Choir remains a dynamic and active force in the local musical scene. In addition to its traditional repertoire, the choir continues to explore new musical territory, incorporating contemporary pieces and arrangements. The choir’s commitment to music education and community engagement ensures its future as an important part of Cirencester’s cultural life.
How to Get Involved
For anyone interested in joining the choir, Cirencester Male Voice Choir typically offers opportunities to rehearse weekly, and new members are always welcome. Aspiring members can attend a rehearsal to see if it’s a good fit for them before making a commitment.
Cirencester Male Voice Choir is a valued institution within the local community, offering not only beautiful music but also an opportunity for camaraderie, personal growth, and involvement in charitable work. It continues to be a key part of the musical and social fabric of Cirencester, providing a vibrant platform for men who enjoy singing and want to contribute to the rich choral tradition of the UK.
Whether you’re a local resident or someone interested in hearing high-quality male voice choral music, Cirencester Male Voice Choir is an organization worth exploring.
Come to a Rehearsal
Cirencester MVC meet every Monday evening at the Cirencester Rugby Club on The Whiteway. Our rehearsals are quite relaxed, starting at 19.30, and lasting around 2 hours. You do not need to be able to read music. Most of us don’t! Members can access rehearsal tracks for each part and for every song, and our Music Team will guide you along. Sometimes rehearsals are followed by a drink (and song) at a nearby pub.
The social element to the choir is important. We are all about encouraging friendship and generating a strong, cohesive musical unit.
To join us, send us a message, or speak to any member for further information. Alternatively, just come along to one of our practices. You don’t need any experience of singing in a choir nor do you need to be able to read music. Come and see why singing in a choir is now one of the most popular past times in the UK!
We are proud to have sung alongside so many wonderful choirs. We have performed with the London Welsh, Cotswold, Caldicot, and Gloucestershire Police Male Voice Choirs, The Brize Norton Military wives, the Cirencester Singers, the Blue Notes, Southampton Youth Concert Sinfonia, Norway’s Sandneskameratene Choir and Ireland’s Gracenotes Ladies’ Choir.