A GROUP of male voice singers will be performing in the borough, with proceeds from their concert going to Parkinson’s UK.
Reading Male Voice Choir (RMVC) aims to entertain, raise funds for charity, and to have fun.
Their next concert is in aid of Parkinson’s UK Reading branch, which funds research into treatments for the neurological disease, and provides support for those affected by it.
Rehearsals are at Hawkedon School, Lower Earley, on Fridays, from 7.30pm until 10pm.
Martin Butler, concert secretary, said: ” We’ll be performing a range of very classic male voice choir pieces, including, You Raise Me Up, and The Rose.”
The Barberettes, a female voice Reading choir, will also join RMVC at the concert, performing their acapella choruses in barbershop style.
Among their repertoire on the night will be It’s Raining Men.
RMVC is keen to recruit new male voice singers.
“We’re always keen for new choristers to join us,” said Mr Butler, “and we’re especially looking for younger singers at the moment.
“There’s no audition – people just come along to try the group out.
“Some men know what their singing range is, but some have no idea.
“We’ll allocate them to the right section leader: tenor, baritone, or bass, who will help them to learn the music and take them through the repertoire.
“It usually takes around two or three months to get familiar with it, but it’s great fun, and we’re a very friendly group.”
As well as regular socials, including a monthly meet up for female family members at the RMVC Ladies Group, the choir takes itself on tour annually.
“We’ve been to Poland, and Lake Como pre the pandemic,” said Mr Butler, “and more recently to Cornwall.
“This Autumn we have plans to visit Wales.”
The group’s next concert will take place at Christ Church, Woodley, on Saturday, February 3, at 7pm.
Tickets cost £12, with people being invited to add a donation of £5 extra for Parkinson’s UK if they wish.
For tickets and information, visit: www.rmvc.net and for more about the charity, log on to: www.localsupport.parkinsons.org.uk
