Featured Article

What is it like to be in a singing group? It’s one of the most common things people ask before they join—and it makes total sense.

You’ve read about how to sign up, maybe browsed some photos or watched a video or two, but that first step into a room full of singers can still feel like a big unknown. Will you know what to do? Will everyone else sound like professionals? Will you have to sing something straight away? These little questions have a sneaky way of building up, especially when you’re excited but a bit nervous too.

This guide is here to show you what really happens after you join, so you can feel a bit more at ease and just enjoy the experience. It’s all about honest answers, friendly vibes, and getting a proper sense of what it’s like to be part of something like Love Soul Choir.

Let’s take a peek at what your first session might look like.

What is it like to be in a singing group on your first night?

That very first session can feel like the most daunting part—but honestly, it’s often where people realise just how relaxed and welcoming singing groups like Love Soul Choir really are.

You’ll usually arrive to a bit of friendly chatter and some music playing in the background. There’s no big spotlight moment and no one asking you to sing solo. You’ll just be greeted by Dan (Choir Leader) invited to take a seat and then eased into the rehearsal without any fuss.

What to bring with you? A bottle of water (no-single use plastic) is always a good shout, your phone (this is how you can access lyrics), and most importantly, an open mind. You don’t need anything fancy—no sheet music, no uniform – just wear what makes you comfortable – no pressure.

Lots of people imagine they’ll feel out of their depth at the start. But the reality? Most newcomers are surprised at how quickly they settle in. Everyone’s there for the same reason—to sing, have fun and be part of something uplifting. It’s not about being the best singer in the room. It’s about feeling good and enjoying the moment.

Do I need to read music to be in a singing group?

A lot of people worry about this one—and honestly, it’s one of the biggest myths. You don’t need to read music to be in Love Soul Choir. Not even a little bit.

Groups like ours are built around the idea that music should be accessible to everyone, not just those with formal training. Songs are taught by ear, which means you’ll learn them through repetition and listening, rather than reading notes on a page. It’s a far more natural way of picking things up, especially if you’re new to group singing or haven’t sung in ages.

There’s also loads of support to help you feel confident. Members at Love Soul Choir get access to an online area packed with helpful tools—things like lyric sheets, song practice tracks and a calendar of upcoming events. So if you ever feel like you want to go over something again in your own time, it’s all there.

So no, you won’t need to bring a music stand or brush up on theory before your first session. What matters far more is enthusiasm and the willingness to give it a go.

Will I have to sing alone in a singing group?

This one comes up a lot, and it’s completely understandable. The thought of being put on the spot and made to sing solo is enough to send some people running for the hills. But the good news? That’s not how it works.

When you join a singing group like Love Soul Choir, you’re always singing as part of the group. There’s comfort in numbers, and the beauty of group singing is that your voice blends in with those around you. No pressure, no solo moments unless you want them.

There are opportunities to sing alone later down the line if that’s something you’d enjoy. Some members love stepping forward to audition for a solo part during performances—but that’s completely optional. No one’s going to call your name and ask you to belt out a verse without warning.

So if the idea of singing in front of others makes your stomach flip, don’t worry. You’ll never be made to do anything you’re not ready for. It’s all about enjoying the music and feeling part of something bigger than yourself.

What is it like to be in a singing group socially?

It’s not just about the music. One of the best parts of being in a singing group is everything that happens around the singing.

When you start coming regularly, you’ll notice friendships forming almost without trying. There’s something about singing together that naturally brings people closer—it’s like skipping small talk and heading straight into real connection. Whether it’s laughing over a tricky harmony, sharing a moment during rehearsal, or chatting in the break, it all adds up.

At Love Soul Choir, there’s often a post-rehearsal catch-up at a nearby pub, plus all sorts of community events and performances that give everyone the chance to hang out and have fun off-stage. It’s a real mix of people too, from all walks of life, and somehow it just clicks. Everyone’s brought together by a shared love of music—and that makes for a pretty special atmosphere.

Gavin, who sings with our Bournemouth group, puts it like this:

“Dan has managed to foster a choir which encourages a high level of commitment and quality from members without any cliques. This is a really hard thing to do and quite rare.”
— Gavin, Bournemouth Member

So yes, it’s about singing. But it’s also about belonging.

What is it like to be in a singing group week to week?

One of the most common questions people ask is how much time they’ll need to commit—and whether it’s something they can realistically fit in around work, family, or life in general.

With Love Soul Choir, rehearsals happen once a week on either a Monday or Tuesday evening, depending whether you join our choir in Bournemouth or our choir in Southampton. Each session is a couple of hours, and that’s your main weekly commitment. It’s a regular slot in your diary where you can switch off, connect with others, and do something just for you.

After you’ve been in the group for about three months, you’ll have the chance to take part in performances. These are optional but incredibly fun, and they’re planned out well in advance. Members get access to an events platform where you can see what’s coming up and let the team know which ones you’re available for.

As for costs—it’s £36 per month, which covers all rehearsals, events and performances throughout the year as well as access to the members’ online area. There’s no uniform to buy, and events that cost are totally optional. It’s designed to be simple, flexible, and great value for what you get.

So you’re not signing your life away—you’re just giving yourself one night a week to do something brilliant.

What is it like to be in a singing group for your confidence?

Something shifts when you start singing regularly with others. It’s not just about hitting the right notes—it’s about how it makes you feel.

At first, lots of people join with a bit of hesitation. Maybe they haven’t sung since school, or they’ve only ever belted out tunes in the shower. But week by week, something starts to build. You hear yourself improving. You feel more relaxed in the group. And before you know it, your shoulders are a bit less tense, your voice is a bit stronger, and you’re standing a little taller.

It’s not just vocal confidence that grows either. Singing with others boosts self-belief in a much broader sense. You’re putting yourself out there, trying something new, being seen—and supported—for who you are. That’s powerful stuff.

There are so many stories from people who joined thinking, I’m not sure I can do this, and now can’t imagine life without it.

One of our Southampton members, Gemma, shared this:

“When I moved back to Southampton after 10+ years away, I quickly realised how hard it can be to make new friends as an adult. My world had also been so wrapped up in motherhood that I’d almost forgotten who I was outside of that role. I wanted something just for me, something that would bring me joy, confidence, and connection – plus I love to sing!”
— Gemma, Southampton Member

Is being in a singing group worth it?

Ask anyone who’s joined, and they’ll probably tell you the same thing—it’s one of the best decisions they’ve ever made.

Being part of a singing group gives you more than just songs to learn. It brings joy, connection, and a sense of purpose you can carry into the rest of your week. You walk into rehearsals and leave with lifted spirits, clearer thoughts, and a big grin. Performing in front of an audience—especially with people you’ve grown close to—can be emotional in the best possible way. Nerves and excitement roll into something really special.

Jenni, one of our Bournemouth members, summed it up so well:

“I am unbelievably proud to be a member of Love Soul Choir. I am extremely grateful for the positive impact Love Soul Choir has on my life, my wellbeing and I couldn’t imagine my life without it. Thank you!”
— Jenni, Bournemouth Member

There are the mental health benefits too. That weekly release. That moment where you’re fully present, focused on nothing but harmonies and lyrics and laughter. It’s grounding. Energising. A proper boost for your wellbeing.

So if you’ve been wondering what it’s like to be in a singing group, the answer is: it’s uplifting, empowering, and genuinely life-enhancing. And if something inside you feels curious about joining, it might just be worth listening to that little voice.