Calling Tenors & Basses

Are you an amateur Tenor or Bass singer looking to expand your choral activities, or to re-discover a much-loved hobby? Then Worcester Festival Choral Society wants to hear from you before September 2024!

We are currently looking for additional Tenor and Bass voices to swell our highly-regarded, 140-strong SATB chorus. As our choir is usually full, it's a rare opportunity to join one of the region's most prestigious large classical choirs! 

Established more than 160 years ago, WFCS was often conducted by Sir Edward Elgar in its early days. Today, under the baton of the inspirational Samuel Hudson, our Choral Society is going from strength to strength.

Performing with a professional orchestra and world-class soloists, we regularly attract audiences of more than 500 music lovers to each of our concerts to our three major concerts each year in the magnificent setting of Worcester Cathedral. And we have a lot of fun along the way! Some of our singers also have the chance to form part of the renowned Three Choirs Festival Chorus each year.

So, if you sing Tenor or Bass and think you would enjoy learning and performing the ‘classical choral greats’ with us, do check out the FAQs below and get in touch today (details below). We'd love you to come and try us out at the start of our 2024-25 season, with no obligation! (But sorry, no current vacancies for soprano or alto voice parts).

INTERESTED? Email our membership secretary HERE. You will be invited to come along to our first rehearsal of the new season, in early September 2024 (Worcester Cathedral nave, 7.30 - 9.30pm). More details below!

FAQs

What experience do I need?

You don’t necessarily need previous choral experience, just the ability to hold a good tune and ideally have some ability to read music. We’re a very friendly lot, with members of all ages and always enjoy singing and learning together. 

When do we rehearse?

Our rehearsals are held in the Worcester Cathedral nave on Monday evenings during term-times, early September - end March (7.30-9.30pm). 

What do we perform?

Every season we stage three major concerts at Worcester Cathedral, performing some of the world’s best-loved choral works, such as Handel’s Messiah, Haydn's Creation and Mozart’s Requiem – as well as more modern classics. Visit next concert for our upcoming season details.

What else can I expect?

Singing with WFCS is an incredibly rewarding and enjoyable experience, as well as a social opportunity. Beyond our own concerts, additional activities include a popular annual ‘Come & Sing’ workshop day, a Quiz Night and other activities. In addition members have the chance to apply for the renowned Three Choirs Festival Chorus each year.

Is there a cost?

There is no weekly cost, just an annual membership fee that applies in September. 

Do I need to bring my own music?

We will provide you with a loaned vocal score for all works except Handel's Messiah, for which Chorus members are asked to own their own copy. Simply bring a pencil!

Is there an audition?

If you have attended a couple of our rehearsals and decide you'd like to join, then a short (and friendly) audition will be arranged for you with our conductor Samuel Hudson. But don't be put off! The aim is simply to establish your choral potential, including voice range and quality. 

Any other questions?

You may find our Members Page and additional Member FAQs of further interest.

Are there any vacancies in other voice parts?

No - in fact we currently have waiting lists for the other voice parts (Soprano, Alto). So if you are a Tenor or Bass, it's a great chance to snap up the opportunity!