Hastings Town Singers

About Hastings Town Singers

Hastings Town Singers has been a cornerstone of the local music scene for many years, bringing together people from across East Sussex who share a love of choral music. Our choir is open to anyone who enjoys singing, regardless of experience or ability. We believe that singing together builds community, lifts spirits, and creates something beautiful that we can all be proud of.

Our repertoire spans a wide range of styles, from traditional choral works and folk songs to contemporary pieces and seasonal favourites. We perform several times throughout the year at local venues, community events, and special occasions. Whether you're an experienced singer or haven't sung since school assemblies, you'll find a warm welcome here.

Weekly Rehearsals

We meet every Wednesday evening from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at St Mary's Community Hall on Castle Hill Road. Rehearsals are relaxed and enjoyable, with a short break for tea and biscuits halfway through. Our musical director leads us through warm-ups, breathing exercises, and then we work on pieces for upcoming performances.

No audition is required to join, and you don't need to read music. We learn by ear and through repetition, and more experienced members are always happy to help newcomers find their voice. The first two sessions are free for new members, so you can see if the choir is right for you before committing to membership.

Our Performance Calendar

Throughout the year, Hastings Town Singers performs at a variety of events across the town and surrounding areas. Our spring concert typically takes place in April at the White Rock Theatre, featuring a programme of light classics and folk arrangements. In December, we hold our annual Christmas concert at St Clement's Church, which has become a favourite tradition for many local families.

We also sing at smaller community gatherings, care homes, and charity fundraisers. These informal performances give us a chance to share music with those who might not otherwise get to concerts, and they're often the most rewarding evenings of the year. If you'd like to invite us to perform at your event, please get in touch through our contact page.

Joining the Choir

Membership is open to adults of all ages and backgrounds. We ask for a termly subscription of £45, which covers hall hire, music copies, and refreshments. Concessions are available for students and those receiving benefits. If cost is a barrier, please speak with our membership secretary in confidence, as we never want finances to prevent someone from joining.

New members can join at any point during the term, though starting in September or January makes it easier to settle in. We recommend arriving fifteen minutes early for your first rehearsal so we can introduce you to the group, show you where everything is, and help you find a seat in the section that suits your vocal range.

• No audition or previous experience required
• All vocal ranges welcome: soprano, alto, tenor, bass
• Termly membership: £45 (concessions available)
• First two rehearsals free for new members
• Music and refreshments included

Music and Resources

We sing in four-part harmony, with sections for soprano, alto, tenor, and bass voices. Our musical director selects a balanced programme each term, mixing well-known favourites with pieces that challenge us and help us grow as singers. Sheet music is provided, but we also use practice recordings so members can listen at home between rehearsals.

For those who want to develop their vocal technique, we occasionally organise workshops on topics such as breathing, projection, and healthy singing habits. These sessions are optional but popular, and they're included in the membership fee.

Community and Social Life

Beyond the music, Hastings Town Singers is a genuinely friendly group. Many members have formed lasting friendships through the choir, and the social side is just as important as the singing. After rehearsals, some of us head to the nearby café for a chat, and we organise occasional social events such as summer picnics and post-concert meals.

We're a mixed group in every sense: different ages, backgrounds, and walks of life, all united by a love of singing. Whether you're new to Hastings or have lived here all your life, the choir offers a wonderful way to meet people and feel part of the community.