Joining Gay Abandon
Rehearsals
Tuesdays, 7.45-9.45, Swarthmore Centre, Leeds
Cost
£40 per term, with concessions (see lower down page)
Click here for contact details if you're interested in joining.
The band rehearsing at the Carriageworks, Leeds. Mar 06. Photo: Dave Edwards.
Camilla (soprano) outside La Cigale before our performance in Paris. May 05. Photo: Mike Robinson
We aim to welcome everybody who identifies as lesbian, gay or bisexual and can hold a tune.
Rehearsing
We rehearse on Tuesday evenings during term-times from 7.45 to 9.45 in the hall at the Swarthmore Centre.
Singing
We usually sing in four parts (soprano, alto, tenor and bass), sometimes accompanied by Andy on the piano, sometimes a capella and occasionally with our house band. Some members move between parts for different pieces of music. Our musical director or other members can help you out determining which voice part suits you best.
Only some choir members can read music - you don't need to be able to read music to sing with us.
Performing
We plan at least one major performance every year, and shorter appearances at other events.
When to join
Most newcomers will find it easier if they join us when we start work on a new set of music. People may join at other times but if we are near a performance we are unable to spend time teaching new members so it may be better to wait.
Commitment
To enjoy all aspects of being in Gay Abandon, some commitment is required - although this can be variable to suit different people's needs. Click here for details.
Money
We need to hire rehearsal space, buy music, and pay the musical director and accompanist.In addition, we have paid people to arrange music for us, subsidised costumes and travel arrangements, paid for recording studios, and so on. It all costs money! For details of what it might cost you to be a member of Gay Abandon, click here
Newcomers have about three weeks to decide whether they want to join before we expect them to start contributing.
Support
There is a wide range of musical ability and experience in Gay Abandon. We try to help people who want to improve their skills.
Accessibility
We aim to make our rehearsals and performances as accessible as possible.
Our rehearsal space can be accessed via a lift down from the ground floor, or via three shallow steps at the back of the building.
Our major concerts are BSL interpreted and take place in wheelchair accessible venues wherever possible. We also try to ensure flat access to the stage when we can; failing that we aim to reduce the number of steps and offer help to those people who need it.