RSCM Voices North
RSCM Voices North (VN) is an adult training choir, which sings approximately five services per year in cathedrals and major churches across the North of England. Most events take place on Saturdays (or occasional Bank Holidays) and singers come from across the region to rehearse before the service at the end of the day. The choir is currently directed by Martyn Rawles, Organist and Assistant Director of Music at Lichfield Cathedral.
Learning new repertoire and developing vocal and musical skills is at the heart of the choir’s work, so the music list for the year includes a wide range of styles and periods which present different challenges and teaching points.
VN currently has vacancies in all voice parts but is particularly keen to hear from prospective tenors and basses.
Voices North Programme for 2025-26:
Saturday 13 September – Halifax Minster
Saturday 10 January – Derby Cathedral
Saturday 14 February – Durham Cathedral
Saturday 18 April – Leeds Minster
Monday 4 May – York Minster
FAQs
Q. Who can apply to join?
A. Membership is open to adult members of RSCM-affiliated churches and choirs, or Individual/Student members of the RSCM. Admission to the choir is by audition. The standard expected of applicants is roughly equivalent to that of RSCM Silver Award level. All members must comply with RSCM Safeguarding requirements.
Q. What repertoire does the choir sing?
A. Repertoire includes a wide range of styles and periods which present different challenges and teaching points.
View the music list for this season.
Q. How much does it cost?
A. Standard Membership: £117
Under-25s Membership (aged 18-24): £54
Payable either in full at the beginning of the academic year or in three payments spread across the year.
Singers are responsible for providing their own sheet music.
Q. How do I apply to join?
A. New applicants should contact the choir administrator, Karen Banks (voicesnorth@rscm.com).
Q. What happens at the audition?
A. As well as preparing a piece to sing (The RSCM Silver Award syllabus contains examples of possible repertoire), you will be asked to demonstrate some vocal exercises to test range and tone quality, and given some sight-singing to test your ability to tackle new music. Some auditions may be conducted online.
