Stourbridge Choir and Orchestra is a thriving, friendly and enthusiastic amateur society giving performances of choral and orchestral music in relaxed and social company.
We perform a range of music from classical to light, musicals to church music. Members can also suggest music to perform. The Music Director Martin Sleaford, who has a degree in conducting, is particularly good at helping members of differing abilities when rehearsing.
No auditions are required (although a minimum of grade 5 is required for the orchestra), and we welcome musicians and singers of all type, voice and age. We extend a particular welcome to “rusty returners”, and to younger musicians and singers who have recently left school or further education and would like to continue their practice and performance of choral and orchestral works.
The society was founded in 1884, and is one of the oldest choral and orchestral societies in England. It played the first concert in Stourbridge Town Hall when it opened in 1887, and played three concerts a year through both world wars. Its unbroken programme was only stopped by the COVID-19 virus.
Joining
The choir welcomes more singers in all voices and abilities.
The orchestra currently has vacancies for strings and brass (minimum grade 5 or equivalent).
If you sing or play an instrument and live in the Black Country, or anywhere within easy travelling distance of Stourbridge, please come and visit us.
No auditions are required for singers or players.
Membership costs £30 per term. For concerts, you will need a black shirt and trousers / skirt, but we do not have a choir ‘uniform’ or branded concert dress you must purchase.
Rehearsals
Choir rehearsals are held weekly on Tuesdays at 7:30pm, at:
Gigmill Methodist Church
Glebe Lane
Stourbridge
DY8 3YG
The church is on the corner of Witton Street and Glebe Lane, off South Road in Norton. Parking is in the undertaker’s car park opposite.
Orchestra rehearsals are held weekly on Mondays at 7:30pm, at:
The Unicorn Centre
Brettell Lane
Amblecote
DY8 4BP
There is ample parking at the centre, entry is via the barrier in King William Street (postcode DY8 4ES).
Entry to the building is by door code.
Concerts
The Society usually mounts three concerts each season (September to June). In recent years the pattern has been established of including both choral and orchestral elements in each concert, always seeking to widen the repertoire.