about the project choir

The Riverhouse Barn Virtual Choir was formed almost immediately when we were told to self isolate in March 2020. We responded with a positive project which brings the community together. It could even be Surrey's first ever family choir! It is a perfect opportunity to come together, whilst staying safe at home. No prior experience necessary and you can sing your hearts out like no one can hear you! 

How will it work?
The project is based online using a software called Zoom. This is downloadable on to phones, tablets, laptops and computers and once you have signed up for the choir you will receive a link for the choir session. To get a heads up you can sign up and create your own account before getting this link. It is really simple. All you need is a microphone and a camera built in to whatever you are using.

HOW DO I SIGN UP?
You can sign up for the project with one click. By clicking on the link below it will take you to a form to complete. We would only need you to complete one form per device. So, if you have four people doing it using one laptop then only one form is needed to be completed. 
Here is the link: https://forms.gle/hJE9aBLZtfmEVke3A
WHEN ARE THE SESSIONS?
The sessions will take place on Saturdays 10.30am - 11.30am. At the moment they will be on the following dates with the possibility of extending them if it is really popular. The choir has been going over 10 weeks now and we don't have any plans to stop our sessions and always welcome new singers to give us a go. 
HOW MUCH IS IT?
Thanks to the Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre this is a completely free project to get involved with. How awesome is that?! To show your appreciation you can make a donation to The Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre by going to this link: 
https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/charity-web/charity/displayCharityCampaignPage.action?charityCampaignUrl=riverhousecovidappeal
WHAT WILL BE SINGING?
Our repertoire consists of easy and fun, uplifting songs such as:
Up, Up and Away by Fifth Dimension 
You've Got A Friend In Me by Randy Newman
Lean On Me by Bill Withers
There is no way you won't finish the session without a smile on your face! 
WHO WILL BE RUNNING THE CHOIR?
I will be running the choir and joined by the wonderful virtuosic pianist Gareth Giles! With the help from Gareth on his grand piano (!) we will run the sessions in a fun and engaging manner and aimed at families all coming together and doing something that they can be really proud of. Challenging themselves whilst having immense fun at the same time! 
WHAT WILL THE END RESULT BE?
Our weekly sessions provides much needed musical therapy for us but we have the desire to put together virtual projects as well. Our first project was You've Got A Friend In Me and saw over 30 people record themselves at home and send it in which we then put together. The video will be available soon. When social distancing measures relax and arts centres are allowed to open again I can see us all coming together for the first time as a choir which will be a truly magical moment.