I believe that if you can talk you can sing! Singing should be easy and natural– we just open our mouths and set our voices free. You may have been told earlier in life that you don’t sing ‘well’. At our choir sessions you will find a way through easy warm ups and rounds to feel valued and included. Once you hear the harmony that can be produced, it will be fun and uplifting!
The Common Voices are made up of three choirs that meet every week. They are all dynamic and friendly groups; the aim being to enjoy singing in a relaxed way and to build supportive and inclusive communities
We welcome all singers; with or without previous experience. Songs are taught ‘by ear’ so there is no need to read music. We cover folk, world, pop, jazz and gospel – all with the aim of feeling good in a calm and friendly environment
Although we are not strictly a ‘performance’ choir, each choir performs a couple of times a year within their community to raise money for charity.
Occasionally we get together as three choirs and perform in bigger venues – this is where the colour purple comes in! Altogether this can be up to 70 singers.
BIDDY TURNER- CHOIR LEADER
I trained as a professional musician and as well as choirs, I also teach the flute up to diploma level. I spent several years in London and Bristol; starting out working at Radio 3 and subsequently managing rock bands! After settling in Gloucestershire, I have been running childrens’ and adult choirs for many years.
I am a member of the Natural Voice Network which is an organisation that promotes singing for all, making it accessible to everyone by teaching ‘by ear’. No-one will be asked to audition or sing on their own.
I teach songs in 3 or 4 parts – some easy and others that take longer to learn. My taste in music is very eclectic – but I teach with enthusiasm and passion. Although we share a lot of laughter, I hope that we strive to collectively improve our singing as well as building strong, supportive friendships
With our informal concerts we always raise money for charity. Some of the charities we have supported over the years are Stroud Women’s Refuge, Marah, WaterAid, Sunflower Suicide Support and The Clean Plate.
